11 Design Trends That Look Good but Cost Way too Much

Keeping up with home trends can get pricey fast. Sure, they look nice, but are they worth it? Some trends aren’t just expensive upfront—they also cost more in upkeep and replacements over time. Here are eleven home design trends that may look great but probably aren’t worth the money.

Open Concept Floor Plans

Open layouts have been popular for years, but do they actually work for everyone? The hidden costs here are surprising. Heating or cooling a large, unpartitioned space can skyrocket your energy bills. Plus, without walls, sound carries like crazy, and noise reduction solutions (like rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels) aren’t cheap. Add that to the fact that remodeling later to create division is expensive, and this trend might be more trouble than it’s worth.

Smart Home Overload

Smart homes are gaining popularity, but filling your house with gadgets can get expensive fast. Devices may be affordable individually but costs pile up with lighting, cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants. Add in maintenance, updates, and repairs, and it gets even pricier. And, when one electronic becomes outdated, you may get stuck replacing it to avoid compatibility problems.

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

Carpet is definitely cozy, but it can be expensive to keep up. Professional cleaning, stain repairs, and eventual replacement add up quickly. Carpets also collect dirt and allergens, which means more spending on cleaning supplies or air purifiers. Hardwood or tile typically costs more upfront but ends up saving money over time.

Bold Cabinet Colors

A hot kitchen color—like navy or emerald green—could feel fresh now, but it’s not always timeless. When this trend fades or if you decide to sell your home, guess who’s paying to repaint or replace the cabinets? You. Bright or bold colors can also clash with decor changes, leaving you with less flexibility to update spaces without more expenses.

Open Shelving in Kitchens

Open kitchen shelving might look great in photos, but it’s tough on your wallet. You’ll need decorative, matching dishes since they’re always visible, which can get expensive. Plus, the constant dusting and cleaning to keep shelves looking neat adds more time and effort than expected.

Faux Marble Finishes

Marble-inspired designs are everywhere, but aren’t always a great investment. Faux marble countertops or tiles tend to scratch, stain, or discolor faster than expected. Repair or replacement is inevitable in a few years. While genuine marble is durable (though pricey), opting for fake versions could leave you stuck in a cycle of replacing soon after you finish the install.

Excessive Built-Ins

Built-in shelves, desks, and TV units may seem timeless, but trends change quickly. These features can make your home look outdated as styles shift. Modifying or removing them later can get expensive, often costing more than the original installation. Plus, let’s be honest—those deep shelves usually just end up collecting clutter.

Mindless Maximalism

Maximalist design can be exciting, but it gets expensive fast. Filling a room with bold patterns, statement pieces, and layered decor adds up quickly. Eventually, you might want a simpler look, but it’s tough after investing in so many flashy items. Plus, replacing broken pieces or keeping up with new trends can become an ongoing expense.

Fast Furniture

Cheap furniture might save money upfront, but it rarely lasts. Poor quality means it breaks easily, leaving you replacing items over and over. Spending a bit more on well-made furniture can save you a lot in the long run.

Statement Lighting Fixtures

A bold chandelier or oversized pendant light can make a room pop, but trends in lighting shift quickly. When today’s trendy fixture feels outdated, replacing it costs a lot, especially if rewiring or new hardware is involved. Don’t forget to factor in the upkeep—bulbs for statement lights are often oddly specific and more expensive than standard ones.

Customized Tile Work

Intricate tile designs in bathrooms or kitchens look striking, but customization usually costs a fortune. The labor is intensive, and even small repairs or replacements down the road typically require hiring professionals. And if the pattern doesn’t age well? You’ll want those tiles gone, which means another investment to rip them out and start new.

Style Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

Trendy homes may look great online, but they often cost more than they’re worth. Your home should reflect your style, but chasing every trend isn’t practical. Choose timeless designs and quality materials that last. Balancing style and durability will help you save money in the long run.

The $50 Home Upgrades You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

Tight budgets don’t mean you can’t improve your home while cutting costs in the future. Plenty of small, cost-efficient changes not only make your space look and feel better but also help reduce energy bills and maintenance expenses. Here are impactful upgrades you can make for $50 or less that deliver long-term savings.

Read it Here: The $50 Home Upgrades You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner

10 Ways To Make Your Home Look Fabulous for Less

Making your home look amazing doesn’t have to break the bank. Implementing some simple yet effective ideas, you can transform your space into a stylish haven without overspending. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or overhauling your entire home, there are plenty of ways to achieve a high-end look on a budget. These 10 tips will help you maximize style while minimizing costs.

Read it Here: 10 Ways To Make Your Home Look Fabulous for Less