5 Kitchen Features That Instantly Date Your Home (and 2 Timeless Ones)
When it comes to home design, what was once considered stylish and sophisticated can quickly become outdated as trends shift and new styles take center stage (read: Last year’s kitchen trends were so last year!). Home appliances that were thought to be the epitome of innovation (hello, range hoods) can now, at times, make your home look dated, ultimately changing the feel of your space. From white refrigerators to clunky trash compactors, certain appliances and kitchen features can create a sense of nostalgia for the wrong reasons.
If you even care — because not caring and just loving your space as-is is always an option — updating these outdated appliances is easier than you might think. Below, top interior design experts share exactly what needs to go, and how to swap old appliances out for ones that are more timeless. Keep reading to learn more about which of your appliances could use a refresh.
Outdated Home Appliances
1. White Refrigerators
I’m sorry to say, but you have to know that the experts say white refrigerators are out. “An old standalone white refrigerator can instantly make a refreshed kitchen — or any kitchen, for that matter — look outdated,” says Damla Turgut, founder and creative director of Otto Tiles & Design. “At one point, they were the only choice, but now appliances come in an array of luxury-looking finishes and can be integrated.”
Speaking of luxurious-looking finishes, modern stainless steel or black appliances (fridges, in particular) are the way to go, thanks to their sleek exteriors, designers say. Plus, steel or black usually pairs well with most existing kitchen finishes and accents. “My advice is to conceal white goods behind closed doors,” suggests Turgut.
2. Plastic Appliances
It might be obvious, but plastic appliances (like kettles and microwaves) aren’t as popular anymore. “It’s really worth considering the material and color scheme of your kitchen and buying appliances in line with this — copper, stainless steel, sleek black,” says Turgut. “With the popularity of concealed coffee-making stations, larders, and utility spaces, these items can be discreetly hidden behind closed doors.”
In the past, plastic appliances were popular for their affordability and lightweight nature, but these days they’re often considered a sign of less sophisticated design trends. They lack the sleek, modern finishes of contemporary stainless steel or glass counterparts, giving a kitchen a more budget-conscious and less durable appearance. What’s more, plastic can also discolor, scratch, and wear down more quickly than higher-end materials, which lessens the overall aesthetic of the space. The verdict? It’s time to upgrade.
3. Non-Built-in Microwaves
In the same vein, microwaves not built into a kitchen are also considered outdated by designers. “Non-built-in microwaves are an immediate indicator that it was an afterthought within the kitchen’s design, causing one to consider what else may have been overlooked or skimped on throughout the home,” say Jason Clifton and Jeremy Bauer of Bauer/Clifton Interiors. Plus, they tend to have a bulky appearance and, most importantly, occupy valuable counter space. Unlike integrated models that blend in with cabinetry and kitchen design, standalone microwaves can often contribute to a cluttered look.
4. Old-Fashioned Range Hoods
Plain and simple, outdated range hoods are a thing of the past. “Old-fashioned range hoods are something I hate seeing in a kitchen; they’re clunky and usually ugly,” says Turgut. “Ventilation can be concealed and made a feature with molding, and range hoods these days come in some fantastic materials as well as shapes (circular, for example). And, with the development of ranges that include integrated downward ventilation, they’re (hopefully) going to fade out of popularity.”
5. Trash Compactors
Trash compactors no longer have the allure they once did. “While innovative at one time, they’re often the most problematic, and prone to being operated incorrectly by guests,” say Bauer and Clifton. “In lieu of compacting trash, dedicating a similar amount of cabinetry space to a dual pull-out bin encourages recycling to reduce waste and increases the sustainable practices of the household.”
Today, modern kitchens prioritize sleek, integrated appliances, and efficient use of space. Because trash compactors often occupy valuable real estate, they end up doing more harm than good in terms of both space-saving and visual aesthetics. Plus, with the rise of more effective and environmentally friendly recycling and trash disposal options, dedicated trash compactors aren’t as necessary anymore.
Timeless Home Appliances
Now that you’re all caught up on which kitchen appliances designers have moved on from, here’s a look at a few they’re loving right now.
1. Stainless Steel Gas Range Oven
“A beautiful stainless steel gas range oven with a tiled backsplash will be a focal point of a kitchen for years to come,” explains Turgut. “It’s a timeless option that works with so many aesthetics, and they look sleek and sophisticated in comparison to the integrated vertically stacked ovens.” Plus, with the ability to design a backsplash, you can make your kitchen space more personalized and special.
2. Microwave Drawers
Ah, microwave drawers! There’s something so innovative about these appliances, and designers don’t see them phasing out any time soon. “Not only do they free up counter space, but their convenient location below the countertop also ensures they’re more accessible for all family members, including younger members to those aging in place,” say Bauer and Clifton. “They’re also great additions to butler’s pantries and media rooms, too!” Plus, the drawer design makes it easier to stir food and remove hot dishes without the risk of spills or burns. (If you’re short, you get it.) Not to mention, microwave drawers usually come with features like sensor cooking and multiple pre-set options, which makes reheating food a breeze.
The Final Verdict on Outdated Kitchen Features
There’s no other way to say it: Keeping your home up to date requires attention to the details, especially when it comes to kitchen appliances. Outdated features like white refrigerators, plastic appliances, and trash compactors can make any home feel stuck in the past. But no one trend fits all. “You should always buy what you like, not what is on trend,” explains Turgut. “I recommend considering the style of your home’s architecture and choosing features and appliances that feel authentic to the house.” But as long as you’re in love with the feature (and it’s still functional!), it doesn’t really matter what other people think, does it?
Further Reading
Why People Are Ditching Their Seltzer After a Disturbing Study
This $10 IKEA Find Will Transform Everyone's Favorite Storage Solution
Reese’s Just Launched a Limited-Edition Peanut Butter Cup, and It Tastes 4x Better than the Original
