The Most Annoying Interior Design Trends People Can't Stand

How Interior Design Trends Spark Controversy

Interior design is a deeply personal endeavor, but some trends have sparked intense opinions among homeowners. After gathering insights from over 500 readers, here are some of the most infuriating design trends that people can't stand:

1. Open Shelving in Kitchens

"Open shelving looks great in photos, but it’s impractical for everyday use. Dust accumulates, and if you have pets, it can be a disaster!"

2. Lack of Storage

"Big homes without storage, especially no entryway closets, leave you wondering where to put shoes and jackets!"

3. Overly Bright Light Fixtures

"Edison-style bulbs can be painfully bright. We call ours the 'Jesus Light' because it flickers with the dimmer switch!"

4. Microwaves in Lower Cabinets

"Microwaves built into lower cabinets are a nightmare, especially for anyone with mobility issues."

5. Shower Rooms with Tubs

"Having a tub inside the shower means cleaning both every time, which is a hassle!"

6. Outlets in Drawers

"As a cabinet-maker, outlets inside drawers are annoying. You have to open the drawer to plug in appliances, making a mess!"

7. Fake Fireplaces

"Fake chimneys on non-functional fireplaces are just tacky. If you can't have a real fireplace, don’t fake it!"

8. Open Floor Plans

"Open floor plans mean cooking smells linger everywhere. Finding a place with separate kitchens is a challenge!"

9. Laundry in the Kitchen

"Putting laundry in the kitchen is impractical. Kitchens should be clean and sanitary!"

10. Farmhouse Sinks

"Farmhouse sinks don’t drain properly and require a lot of water to clean!"

11. Pot Lights

"Rows of pot lights clutter ceilings when one beautiful fixture would suffice."

12. Two-Toned Kitchens

"Two-toned kitchens look mismatched, as if leftovers from other homes were thrown together."

13. Tall Niches in Showers

"Tall niches without shelves are pointless. Why have such a large space if you can only use one shelf?"

14. Decorating for Future Buyers

"Why should I live in boring colors just because someone might buy my house in the future?"

15. Lack of Trees in New Builds

"New homes often lack trees. It's sad and bare. Homes should embrace existing nature!"

16. Two-Handle Faucets

"Two-handle faucets are just for looks. It's much easier to adjust water temperature with one hand."

17. Freestanding Tubs

"Freestanding tubs require cleaning behind them, which is an inconvenience!"

18. Black Modern Farmhouses

"Black houses in the South are baffling. Don’t people understand how hot it gets?"

19. Textured Backsplashes

"Textured tiles are beautiful but hard to clean. Glossed subway tiles are far more practical."

20. Ventless Hood Vents

"Hood vents that don't vent outside are pointless. They should be renamed 'stovetop lighting.'"

21. Pot Fillers

"Pot fillers over the stove seem unnecessary. You’ll have to move the pot eventually anyway!"

22. No Drawers in Senior Community Kitchens

"Kitchens in senior communities lacking drawers are frustrating. I can't bend over to find things!"

23. Monster Houses on Tiny Lots

"I want space for trees and flowers, not a huge house on a tiny lot!"

24. No Windows on Home Sides

"Building homes without windows is a trend that needs to stop."

25. Mini-Splits

"Mini-splits are ugly and clutter historic homes. I'd rather sweat than deal with those!"

26. Horizontal Deck Railings

"Horizontal balusters on railings are dangerous for toddlers!"

27. Gray Flooring

"Gray flooring is tacky and looks cheap."

28. Painting Brick White

"Painting mid-century brick homes white should be illegal!"

29. Fake Stone

"Cheap-looking fake stone on new builds looks out of place."

30. Bathroom Access to Closets

"Having to walk through the bathroom to get to the closet is impractical unless you live alone."

31. Clear Shower Doors

"Clear shower doors compromise privacy. It can be awkward with multiple people in the bathroom."

32. Quartz Countertops

"Quartz countertops look fake and plastic."

33. Small Garages

"Many new garages can’t fit full-size vehicles, which is frustrating!"

34. Barn Doors

"Barn doors should only be for barns. Stop embarrassing yourself with them!"

What design trends do you dislike? Share your thoughts in the comments!