12 Things You Won't Find in New Homes

Wood Paneling

Dark wood paneling, popular in mid-century homes, is a feature you’ll rarely see today. It tends to make spaces feel dated and closed in, clashing with modern design sensibilities. Homeowners now favor light, neutral walls that enhance brightness and versatility.

Formal Dining Rooms

Once a staple of home design, formal dining rooms are disappearing in favor of open-concept layouts. Homeowners now prefer flexible spaces that combine dining, entertaining, and everyday living. These dedicated rooms are being replaced by multipurpose areas with a more casual feel.

Built-In Media Niches

Media niches designed for large boxy TVs are now obsolete in the age of sleek flat screens. Homeowners are opting for wall-mounted TVs and minimalist entertainment centers. These outdated niches often get reworked into shelving or entirely removed during remodels.

Sunken Living Rooms

Sunken living rooms, once considered a symbol of luxury, are no longer in demand. Their awkward design poses safety concerns and limits furniture arrangement. Modern homes favor even floors to ensure accessibility and seamless flow between spaces.

Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings are a relic of mid-century homes that have fallen out of favor. Their bumpy texture traps dust and can contain asbestos, making them undesirable. Homeowners now prefer smooth or lightly textured ceilings for a cleaner, modern look.

Carpeted Bathrooms

Carpeted bathrooms were once seen as a cozy luxury but are now considered impractical. They trap moisture, leading to hygiene concerns and potential mold issues. Tile, vinyl, and waterproof laminate have taken their place as more durable and sanitary options.

Double Ovens

Double ovens were once prized by home chefs, but they’re being phased out in modern kitchens. With advancements in single ovens that offer dual cooking zones, the need for two separate units has diminished. Homeowners are favoring sleeker designs that save space and energy.

Large Whirlpool Tubs

Oversized whirlpool tubs are losing favor as people prioritize efficient use of space. They require significant water and energy while often going unused. Walk-in showers with luxurious features like rainfall heads and body jets are now the preferred choice.

Wallpaper Borders

Wallpaper borders that lined the tops of walls in decades past are no longer stylish. They’re seen as dated and limit design flexibility in a room. Modern homes favor full-wall wallpaper or painted finishes for a more cohesive look.

Brick Fireplaces

Traditional brick fireplaces are becoming less common as gas and electric options dominate the market. Newer homes favor streamlined, modern fireplace designs that are easier to maintain. The shift also reflects a focus on energy efficiency and cleaner heating solutions.

Compact Kitchens

Compact, closed-off kitchens are being replaced by open-concept designs that integrate with living areas. Homeowners now prioritize spaciousness, light, and connectivity in their kitchens. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on kitchens as social hubs.

Sliding Bifold Closet Doors

Sliding closet doors, often made of flimsy materials, are being swapped out for hinged or barn-style doors. They’re prone to jamming and offer limited access to closet contents. Modern designs focus on functionality and style, with custom storage solutions becoming more popular.

If you have been wanting to refresh your home and free yourself of some outdated features, call me to schedule a consultation. Let's get your home in the best shape it can be. Whether your contemplating improvements to prepare your home for sale or, to enjoy indefinitely, I am here to help you make your home a reflection of who you are today.