Goodbye, Gallery Walls! 5 Decor Choices Designers Think Are Overdone—and What to Do Instead

The world of interior design is filled with ever-changing trends—what’s popular one minute can feel tired and overdone the next.

While it can be fun to lean into the trends we see in magazines and on social media in our home decor, it doesn’t take long for these fleeting trends to wear out their welcome, and no one knows this better than interior designers. 

We asked three interior designers which decor trends they believe are officially overdone, and their answers shocked us. Here are the top five decor choices designers recommend avoiding.

Bouclé Everything

Bouclé is beloved for its ability to add textural interest to a space and is popular in a variety of design styles. However, designers agree that the fabric is becoming somewhat clichéd. 

“We’ve officially hit peak bouclé,” says Kim Dee, founder, and principal designer of Kim Dee Designs. “While it adds a cozy texture, it’s become the default for every accent chair, bench, and ottoman, making spaces feel trend-driven instead of thoughtfully curated.”

Not only does it feel overdone, but it’s also not the most practical fabric. It stains easily, is difficult to clean, and doesn’t age well. Instead of bouclé, designers are embracing other textural materials, such as linen, mohair, or even velvet.  

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Faux Olive Trees

Faux olive trees took over our social media feeds in the early 2020s, but designers are officially over this trend. What once felt chic and interesting now feels tired and expected. 

“Instead, choose greenery that actually suits your space,” Dee says. “A sculptural dried arrangement, an oversized pot with character, or even a real tree if the light allows.”

If you’re not up for the real thing yet, don’t be afraid to embrace faux greenery where appropriate, but choose something unexpected and textural rather than opting for the same faux tree you’ll find in every other home on the block.

Farmhouse-Style Signs

According to Katherine Moore, co-founder and architect of design at Murphy & Moore Design, overly literal farmhouse-style signs have got to go.

Think: “Live, Laugh, Love” signs of the 2020s, with words like “Gather,” “Eat,” “Home,” and “Family” (or some variation of all four) displayed in large printed letters.

Ironically, these overly literal signs with messages of love and family can lead to spaces that feel generic and impersonal—they’re often purchased from the same large retailers, after all.

“Design feels more meaningful when it reflects the people who live there, rather than what’s trending,” says Moore. 

Instead of these wordy signs, opt for wall art that conveys the same message without literally spelling it out. Look for unique pieces that speak to you. If you’re going for a farmhouse-style interior, check thrift stores and vintage or antique markets for genuine, authentic pieces that will add real depth and character to your space.

Wall-to-Wall Gallery Walls

While gallery walls can be a fun and beautiful addition to a space, large, wall-to-wall gallery walls can often leave spaces feeling overwhelmed and chaotic.

Too many small frames can compete with each other, making the space feel cluttered, says Tehilla Bennett, founder and principal designer of Teela Bennett Design. Instead, consider a single large-scale art piece, which can often make a stronger visual impact.

“If gallery walls are used, limit them to smaller or transitional spaces like hallways or staircases,” she says. “Letting some walls remain open adds balance and gives the eye a place to rest.”

Too Much Rattan and Cane

Rattan and cane brought warmth during a time when people wanted organic comfort at home. But the all-rattan-everything moment has officially passed, says Bennett. However, you don’t need to say goodbye to these natural materials altogether. 

“Rather than repeating the same texture across several pieces, let one standout item do the work,” Bennett says. “A single woven pendant or accent chair can make a statement when balanced with contrasting materials like metal, ceramics, or soft upholstery.”