Designers Say If Your Home Doesn't Have Any Of These Things, It Looks Outdated

Illuminate a dark, dim kitchen counter area by applying these motion-sensor light strips to the underside of your cabinets. “This type of lighting not only makes the kitchen look more stylish, but it also provides more light for functionality and gives it an up-to-date appearance!” says Carroll. Plus, they’re super easy to install with the built-in magnet or adhesive tape.

Recommended by Viktor Dub of The DIY Plan, succulents can be placed inside individual planters or arranged together as a centerpiece to add some vibrancy to your home. These faux succulent plants are a low-effort way to do it — they look like the real thing but don’t need to be watered. You get 12 different pieces in a pack, with a variety of hues and textures for an eclectic look.

Green recommends investing in this battery organizer, so you can keep your utility room clutter-free. The storage container is designed to hold 148 batteries of various sizes, so you can keep track of what you have on hand. It has a zipping lid with a set of storage pockets for holding extra batteries or small tools.

Once you’ve found a fabric shower curtain that you absolutely love, Carroll recommends a weighted shower liner to keep your curtain fresh. This one is made from premium EVA material, and it comes in several different colors and sizes. The waterproof liner has weighted stones on the bottom, which keeps it from sliding out of the tub.

• Available sizes: 12
• Available colors: 14

Adding high-tech elements to your home doesn’t have to cost a lot of money — these smart plugs are proof. “Smart plugs make any home feel more modern and cutting edge,” says Carroll. Each plug is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home if you want to use voice commands, but you can also use your smartphone to control the plugs from anywhere in the world. Use them to set schedules and control lights, devices, and appliances.

Carroll recommends a string light pole because it makes exterior decorating a cinch. Made from sturdy stainless steel, this pole is great for hanging string lights on your patio or in your backyard. It’s designed with a pronged base, which gives it firm stability when staked in the ground. You can set up two for one row of lights, or get four and create a square.

Hand-picked in remote forests, this genuine moss adds a touch of greenery to your wood bowl — such as the one Rider recommended above. You can also scatter it around your table’s centerpiece or incorporate it into a wreath. Since each piece of moss is preserved, it lasts up to seven years with zero maintenance.

• Available colors: 5

With a vintage-inspired woodland pattern, this peel-and-stick wallpaper is an easy way to create a stunning accent wall in your home. Margaret Carroll, interior designer in the Washington, D.C. area, recommends this using this in powder rooms or the back walls of built-ins. The adhesive backing is easy to apply and remove, so you can swap it out when you’re ready for something new.

Constructed from lightweight yet sturdy acacia wood, this plant stand has a minimalist design that complements nearly any decor style — from mid-century modern to rustic-chic. Carroll says a planter such as this one is a great way to “bring nature indoors,” effectively livening up your living space.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available colors: 5

Carroll says, “Nothing says ‘dated’ more than light fixtures with cool-colored bulbs.” Instead, she suggests using warm, vintage-inspired bulbs like these. Add them to pendant lighting fixtures or an abstract, contemporary chandelier for a cool look. You get six in a pack, which can be used indoors or out.

• Available colors: 4

These wall plates have a screwless appearance, giving them a clean, crisp aesthetic that can elevate your room. “Swapping out dingy old switch and outlet plates with more modern ones always makes a huge difference when updating your home,” says Carroll. Just install the back plate to your wall with the included screws, then add the smooth, matte front plate for a streamlined look.

Fashioned from sturdy steel with rustic wooden handles, these baskets have a distinctly farmhouse-chic feel. They offer the perfect place to store your produce, pantry items, hand towels, and more. “Using storage bins to organize items in the kitchen, bathroom, or pantry always feels more neat and tidy,” says Carroll — these ones also just happen to adorable.

• Available colors: Black, White

Looking for a way to add some life to a large, blank wall in your home? Carroll recommends building a photo collage with this set of picture frames. “Filling up a large blank wall with picture frames creates a welcoming atmosphere while showcasing your family photos or photography!” she says. You get 12 different-sized frames in a pack, each with a matching rustic finish.

According to Carroll, fabric shower curtains are “such an easy way to update a bathroom.” This shower curtain is made of 100% cotton, with a classic striped pattern and tassels on the bottom hem. It complements a wide range of decor styles, from contemporary to rustic-chic. Just make sure to use a weighted shower liner to keep the fabric from constantly getting soaked.

• Available sizes: 72 inches x 72 inches, 72 inches x 84 inches
• Available colors: 12

This nonslip rubber mat from Gorilla Grip doesn’t just prevent dirt from getting tracked into your home — it’s also a great way to add some personality to your doorstep. “An entry doormat is one of the easiest ways to update your entryway!” says Carroll. Choose from dozens of unique patterns, including leaves, dog bones, flowers, and more.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available colors and patterns: 27

“Replace your old sectional pillows with new colorful ones to give it a new look regardless of how old it is,” says Carroll. She recommends these pillow covers go over your existing throw pillows — which is a great way to save money. The set features a range of geometric patterns and faux leather textures.

• Available sizes: 18 inches x 18 inches, 20 inches x 20 inches

Did you know that heavy drapery has the potential to make your home look dated? Grace Baena, interior designer for Kaiyo — an online marketplace for pre-owned furniture — recommends replacing your heavy curtains with something lighter. “Choose a thin fabric that will diffuse light instead of blocking it altogether,” she says. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating, these semi-sheer linen curtains allow light to filter into your room, and they come in lots of different colors and sizes.

• Available sizes: 13
• Available colors: 27

This space-saving macramé fruit hammock can be installed underneath your kitchen cabinet, providing the perfect place to store produce for a quick, midday snack. “Nothing I can think of would persuade me to eat fruits and vegetables on the spur of the moment like this adorable display!” raves Zaeem Chaudhary, architectural draftsman at AC Design Solutions in London.

Chaudhary recommends replacing your worn-out, faded towels. “Display with pride crisp, white, fluffy towels similar to those found in a posh hotel or spa,” he says. Made from Turkish cotton, not only are they super absorbent and soft against your skin, they also make your bathroom look instantly more put-together.

• Available colors: 27

“This shelf is a great way to update your home decor and add a touch of style,” says Kate Diaz, interior designer at Swanky Den. Designed with five tiers for displaying house plants, picture frames, and other knickknacks, this shelf fits neatly in the corner of any space. Available in several finishes such as espresso, gray, and white, it looks great in any kitchen, bathroom, or living room.

• Available colors: 8

Instantly elevate the look of your home by replacing your old cabinet pulls with these sleek, minimalist metal handles that Lily Zingman, head interior designer and founder of Lily Z Designs, recommends. They can be installed in your kitchen, bathroom, and any other spot that has cabinet doors or drawers. Besides matte black, they’re also available in other finishes such as silver and gold.

• Available sizes: 8
• Available colors: 5

“Adding beautiful black and white photographs in hallways with a collage can also help the home feel more ‘classic’ rather than outdated,” says Zingman. This hanging wall display includes five matching picture frames, all of which are suspended from a rod. The display can be hung straight or at an angle (which looks nice along a stairway), allowing you to customize the overall look.

• Available colors: 5

Dub also suggests draping a furry blanket on your sofa to give your room a luxurious look. This throw blanket is piled high with soft faux fur, available in several natural and unconventional hues. One side has a variegated appearance for a textured appearance, while the other side is covered in ultra-cozy fleece.

• Available sizes: 4
• Available colors: 8

Dub recommends adding simple white linens to your bedroom setup — and this bed sheet set feels as good as it looks. Made from a soft, hypoallergenic blend of bamboo and brushed microfiber, it’s resistant to wrinkles, stains, and fading. The crisp appearance will give your bed a luxury hotel feel.

• Available sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King
• Available colors: 12

Dub also recommends adding area rugs to your home — after all, they’re a great way to add warmth and texture. Instead of shelling out a lot of money for a real antique rug, you can get the same look with this pre-distressed area rug available on Amazon. This pick is available in over 30 different sizes and shapes, so you can pick the one that suits your space the best. There are a dozen shades to choose from, including ivory, turquoise, and orange.

• Available sizes: 33
• Available colors: 12

With a minimalist, modern design, this is one dry food storage unit you’ll want to display on your counter. “It’ll make your kitchen look chic and organized,” says Ben Kuhl, home remodeler and founder of Shelf Expression. Each bin has a knob that allows you to easily dispense your cereal, granola, or nuts with a single twist.

Update the appearance of your couch by swapping out your pillow covers for these ones made of lush velvet. “Fabrics like velvet are known for their luxurious feel,” explains Kuhl. “So, these pillow covers will make your space look expensive.” They come in a wide range of sizes and colors, so you can pick the ones that are right for your space.

• Available sizes: 12
• Available colors: 39

When it comes to tabletop decor, designer and founder of Room You Love Simran Kaur favors unique, attention-grabbing pieces — such as these gold-painted statues. “They're metallic, sleek, minimalist, abstract, and modern,” says Kaur. Set them on your coffee table, your dresser, or your bookcase for an instant conversation starter.

• Available colors: 8

“We are really in the interior decor phase where abstract arts and lights work the best!” says Kaur. This rectangular outdoor light fixture has a distinctly modern appearance, illuminating your doorway while adding a touch of style. “It's not too bright, not very showy, just subtle, warm, and peaceful.” You can also use this light in your backyard or on your patio.

One of Kaur’s go-to interior design pieces? Mirrors. Since they’re so versatile, Kaur says that a “space without them often looks a bit off of the modern track.” This set of three mirrors includes two sunburst designs and a flower design, all constructed from gold-painted metal. Arrange them together on your wall or place them in separate rooms.

• Available multipacks: 10

When it comes to palettes, Kaur says, “Colors can help bring that modern charm and character back into the space.” Hand-crafted from ceramic, this set of three colorful vases is a fun way to liven up your living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Place all three vases together for an eclectic look, or spread them out across your home.

• Available multipacks: 2

“Wood or bread bowls are a great way to look current without breaking the bank,” says Eddie Rider of Eddie Rider Designs. Made from sleek, cherry-stained wood, this bowl is so versatile and looks fantastic in any space. He recommends filling this bowl with fruit, orchids, moss, or decorative spheres, but you could also use it as a salad bowl.

You know what’s better than one scented candle on your coffee table? Lots of candles. “Don’t feel as though you can only put one candle on the coffee table, feel free to set out an entire collection of candles and diffusers,” says Stuart Clark, home expert at Victory Blinds in Australia. This set of six candles includes a range of scents, from cherry blossom to mountain pine tree. They’re also packaged in complementary retro, ‘60s-inspired designs.

Another way to make your room smell amazing? This reed diffuser from Cocod’or. This pick provides long-lasting fragrance that brightens up any space. Each set also comes with real dried flower stems, which adds some vibrant color to your coffee table. There are several scents to pick from, like jasmine, cotton, and citrus-lavender.

This modern framed wall art set comes recommended by Cristiana Crin of Perpetuum Designs. You get two different designs in one set, which look great next to each other on your wall. There are lots of different styles and sizes to pick from, so you can find the set that matches your room’s decor best.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available styles: 25

Another one of Crin’s picks is a collection of real pampas grass stems, which can be displayed on their own in a vase or as part of a dried flower bouquet. This set includes a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your bundle. Place a few reeds here and there, or gather them all together for a breathtaking centerpiece.

Upgrading your home’s appearance can be as simple as swapping out your door knobs for these matte black ones. “Changing out your interior door knobs to something that is more current like these matte black modern door knobs will give you the most bang for your money,” says designer Dilhani Dodangoda of Daakor. They have a square base and a circular handle, giving them a streamlined look.

• Available colors: Black, Chrome, Nickel

Durable and transparent, this food storage bin is perfect for holding produce in the fridge or dried goods in your cupboard. “This gives your pantry a streamlined, organized look,” says Brooke Green, marketing manager for Graceful Spaces, a luxury organizing company in Austin, Texas and Charleston, South Carolina. There are multiple sizes available, including a spice rack design for your jars.

• Available sizes: 4

A lazy Susan turntable is a functional yet charming addition to your kitchen counter or dining room table. Recommended by Green, this turntable features raised walls that keep your condiments, spice jars, and olive oil bottles securely inside. It’s made of lightweight bamboo wood, which gives it a sleek, natural appearance.

• Available sizes: 5

Not only do these glass food storage containers simply look elegant, they also keep your dried goods fresh — pasta, cereal, you name it. Each canister comes with a wooden lid with an airtight silicone seal, ensuring that your food is safe from pantry pests. This pick from Green is a great way to organize your pantry while also protecting your food items.