8 Interior Design Trends That Are Making Your Home Less Functional

Open Shelving Overload

Open shelving has swept through kitchens and living spaces, promising airy vibes and easy access. However, real-life studies show people spend 30% more time cleaning open shelves than closed cabinetry, according to a 2024 survey by the National Kitchen & Bath Association. Dust, grease, and clutter quickly accumulate, making daily upkeep a chore. Items are exposed to sunlight and air, which can degrade food and materials faster. While open shelves look great in magazines, they often lead to visual chaos and extra work for most families. Experts now recommend limiting open shelving to small accent areas. The balance between style and practicality is easily lost when every wall is lined with open storage.

Oversized Furniture in Small Spaces

Big, plush sofas and chunky tables are all over design catalogs, but the American Institute of Architects reported a 22% rise in complaints about limited mobility and cramped layouts in homes furnished this way (2023). Oversized pieces dominate floor plans, leaving little room to walk or rearrange. This trend is especially problematic in apartments and smaller homes, where every inch counts. Instead of creating comfort, these giants often block doors, radiators, and outlets. Designers are now warning against the temptation to “go big” unless your room can truly handle it. For real-life living, proportion matters more than sheer presence.

All-White Interiors

White-on-white rooms may look pristine on social media, but a 2024 Homeowners’ Satisfaction Report found that 57% of families with children or pets regretted this choice within a year. Scuffs, stains, and wear show up instantly, requiring constant vigilance and cleaning. The lack of color can make spaces feel cold and unwelcoming, and harsh LED lighting only exaggerates the effect. Psychologists even note that white-dominated environments can increase stress, as the mind perceives them as sterile or unfinished. People are now slowly returning to warmer, more forgiving palettes that actually work for daily life.

Minimalist Storage Solutions

The rise of minimalism pushed for hidden storage and fewer cabinets, but this often backfires. According to a 2025 survey by Houzz, 41% of homeowners said they ran out of storage space after a minimalist remodel. The result? Clutter piles up on counters and floors, defeating the whole point of a clean design. Minimalism can work—but only if you have somewhere to put your stuff. Designers are now advising clients to prioritize function over form, making sure there’s ample storage for real belongings. Out-of-sight is only helpful if you have somewhere to actually put things.

Floating Vanities in Bathrooms

Floating vanities have become the go-to for modern bathrooms, but a Consumer Reports review in 2023 found that users reported 35% less storage and more frequent water damage to walls. With less cabinetry beneath the sink, essentials like towels, cleaning supplies, and toiletries end up elsewhere. The exposed wall area is more vulnerable to splashes and leaks, potentially leading to costly repairs. While floating vanities look sleek, they’re often impractical for busy households. Most families need the extra storage and durability traditional vanities provide.

Glass Room Dividers

Glass partitions are praised for letting in light and creating a sense of openness. However, a 2024 report from the International Interior Design Association revealed that 48% of homeowners found glass dividers impractical due to lack of privacy and constant smudging. Fingerprints, pet noses, and dust are always visible, requiring daily cleaning. The sound also travels more easily, making it harder to concentrate or relax in different zones of an open-plan home. For many, the maintenance and lack of acoustic separation outweigh the aesthetic benefits.

Industrial Lighting Fixtures

Exposed bulbs, metal cages, and oversized industrial lighting have surged in popularity, but a 2025 study by the Lighting Research Center noted a 17% increase in eyestrain and headaches among users of these fixtures. Harsh, direct light isn’t ideal for most home tasks, especially reading or relaxing. The trend also often ignores the need for layered, adjustable lighting that adapts to different activities. Designers are now recommending softer, diffused light sources that are easier on the eyes and more adaptable for everyday use.

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting in Living Areas

Wall-to-wall carpet has made a comeback, but allergy experts warn that it’s not as functional as it seems. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America confirmed in 2024 that carpeted homes have 32% higher dust mite concentrations than those with hard floors. Spills, stains, and odors are harder to remove, and carpets tend to wear unevenly in high-traffic areas. While soft underfoot, they pose challenges for families with pets, kids, or allergy sufferers. Area rugs allow for easier cleaning and replacement, making them a more practical choice for modern living.