8 Reasons Your Bedroom Looks So Outdated, Designers Say

Whether you’re renovating or redecorating your home, the bedroom is often the last space to get attention. After all, it’s not typically a spot where you entertain guests, so people often prioritize higher-traffic areas, like kitchens and bathrooms. However, your bedroom is worth the extra attention—even if it’s just for you.

If your current bedroom doesn’t quite feel like the sanctuary it should be and you can’t pinpoint why, it might be because the space feels outdated and stale. The good news? A few simple updates can make a world of difference. Here’s what interior designers say might be making your bedroom look outdated.

Matching Furniture Sets

Matching furniture sets are one of the biggest culprits behind a dated bedroom, interior designer Jessika Gatewood of Gatewood Designs explains. “If your nightstands, dresser, and bed all look like they came from the same big-box store in the early 2000s, it’s time to mix in some new textures or vintage pieces for contrast,” she says.

But don’t panic if a couple pieces in your bedroom match. “It’s okay to have a matching dresser and nightstands, but when you add in a mirror, bed, and bench—it starts to feel like a staged room with no personality,” Samantha Lund, interior designer and founder of Simply Sam adds.

Swapping out just one piece can make a big difference if you’re on a budget. For example, replacing your nightstands with chic side tables or upgrading your dresser can instantly refresh the space.

You’re Using a Bed in a Bag

If you purchased a bed-in-a-bag set, it’s likely your bedroom looks dated, says Olivia Hnatyshin, interior designer and senior director of brand and creative at Furniture.com. “While convenient, buying matching sheets, quilts, comforters, and accent pillows as a set usually means committing to a theme or specific pattern,” she says.

For a more timeless look, Hnatyshin suggests opting for high-quality separates in neutral shades that you can layer. “I love a classic cream linen paired with beige and brown accents, or crisp percale sheets that always make you feel like you’re stepping into a luxurious hotel bed,” she says.

Dark Wood Everything

Dark wood furniture had its day, but that day is officially over. “Too much dark, ornate wood can make a space feel visually heavy,” Gatewood says. “Lighten things up with softer wood tones, upholstered furniture, or painted finishes.”

If replacing your bedroom furniture isn’t an option, consider painting solid wood pieces a lighter color to create a more modern look.

Shiny Satin Bedding and Pillows

Shiny bedroom linens scream mid-2000s. “Swap out overly shiny, synthetic materials for relaxed linen or matte cotton textures to give your bedroom a modern refresh,” says Gatewood.

Keep in mind that if you use a silk or satin pillowcase for the hair and skincare benefits, this doesn’t mean you need to stop. Just layer those behind another pillow with a decorative sham. 

Oversized Furniture

Bulky furniture, like oversized headboards, can make your bedroom look dated. “Sleek, tailored headboards and floating nightstands instantly modernize a room,” reveals Gatewood.

If you are on a budget, consider installing a floating shelf instead of a nightstand with a drawer. You can often save a lot of money and achieve the same effect.

Overlooked Window Treatments

Even small details, such as improperly hung curtains, can make a bedroom a little blah. “Curtains that don’t go from floor to ceiling, rods that are too small, or curtains not hung wide enough are all common mistakes,” says Lund.

Neglecting Walls

According to Lund, certain wall decor can make a bedroom look older and more dated than it really is. “I often see art that’s too small on walls, or not personal enough,” she says. “Another big problem is when there’s just framed canvas art on every wall. I love to add texture with tapestries or more creative wall hangings.” 

Whether it’s a gallery wall with a generous selection of small curated prints or a few larger pieces on one wall, don’t be afraid to get creative with your wall art. 

White or Gray Walls

Plain white or grey walls can also feel uninspired. Bedrooms are a fantastic place to install bold wallpaper or paint the room a unique color. So, if you need an update, but new furniture isn’t in your budget, consider starting by changing up the walls.