15 Home Fixes To Update Your Look

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Yikes, even if your home is totally trendy, if it’s still got those lingering builder-grade designs and dated elements, it’s an eyesore no matter what. You might not even notice them anymore since they’ve become part of the backdrop, but those small design choices can really ruin the look you’re going for. But the good news is, you don’t have to go all-out to fix it. There are easy, affordable ways to ditch those unwanted eyesores and make your space feel more modern and polished.

Things like matching furniture, wall-mounted TVs, and cluttered countertops can really undermine the vibe you’re going for. And those basic, dome lights and white air vents? Total dealbreakers for a modern look. Even little things like outdated outlet covers and dingy grout can instantly date a room. But with a few simple swaps and quick DIYs, you can say goodbye to those eyesores for good.

Furniture that’s all the same fabric, finish, or style just looks overdone and flat. Modern homes have a more layered, varied look with pieces from different eras and materials. Instead of buying generic furniture, try hunting for vintage finds that bring their own unique character – way better than any passing trend.

Wall-mounted TVs just look so out of place, no matter how nicely you hide the cords. But you can give it a way fancier, more integrated look by adding wall panels behind the TV as a sleek, dynamic backdrop.

Leaving blenders, coffee makers, and other small appliances out on the counter is a major eyesore. Modern kitchens are all about clean, tidy lines, so stash those things away in a convenient spot. Martha Stewart has some great decluttering tips.

Those basic, builder-grade dome lights are such a 2000s eyesore. Swap them out for modern fixtures with sleek silhouettes, cool textures, or colorful shades that totally transform the look.

Carpet on the stairs is so 90s. Swap it out for a nice stair runner rug or other elevated option to instantly elevate the look of your entryway. Can’t do the full reno right now? Try adding a gallery wall or wallpaper to distract from the dated carpet.

Those boring white air vents really stand out like sore thumbs. But the good news is, you can swap them for decorative grills that come in way more stylish finishes and designs. Problem solved!

Accent walls in the bedroom are so outdated. If you love a certain color or pattern, cover all the walls instead for a cozier, more put-together look. Or get creative and paint the ceiling instead of an accent wall.

Mismatched or dated outlet covers can totally ruin the look of a room. Swap them out for sleek, streamlined options that come in loads of finishes to match your style. They’re an easy, inexpensive upgrade that makes a big difference.

Sliding barn doors were cool for a while, but now they just look totally outdated. Ditch those rustic relics for more modern space-saving door options instead.

Dirty, stained grout is such an eyesore, no matter how nice the rest of the room looks. But you can easily clean it up with a quick DIY fix – just scrub it with a toothbrush and a baking soda/peroxide solution.

Sorry kitties, but your litter boxes are total eyesores. Modern cat owners are opting for discreet solutions like litter box furniture or end tables that conceal the litter box.