9 Reasons Your Kitchen Looks Dated, According to Designers

Cook up some fresh decor with these expert tips.

With trend cycles moving faster than ever, it can feel increasingly challenging to keep up—especially when renovating a kitchen , given how expensive it can be. While major features like white appliances from the late '90s or certain laminate countertops may instantly date your kitchen, sometimes it's the smaller, more subtle details that have a big impact on the overall vibe, making it feel like a relic of the past. Here are ten reasons why your kitchen looks dated—and what you can do about it.

Related: 5 Dated Decor Pieces Designers Hate

It Has a Gray Color Palette

Gray was such a popular color for a long time, but that time has come and gone, explains Cathleen Ryan, design manager at Country Kitchens. "An all-gray palette (especially with white subway tile) is going to instantly date your kitchen," she says. "Think of the avocado and burnt orange associated with the '70s—that's what gray will be to the 2010s ."

However, if you have a gray kitchen, that doesn’t mean you necessarily need to spend a lot of money on a gut renovation. It can be an easy fix. "Some ways to combat this would be to paint your walls in fun colors like yellow, orange, teal, or purple to instantly refresh the space," she suggests. "Statement backsplashes or flooring can also help break up the monotony and dullness of too much gray."

There's a Microwave Over the Range

A microwave over your range not only looks disproportionate, it also makes your kitchen look older than that lasagne that’s been in your freezer since last year. But it’s actually easy to relocate your microwave, says interior designer Margaret Kemmeter . "Instead, go with a built-in microwave drawer or hidden pantry placement to create a sleeker, more integrated look," she recommends. "This frees up space for a statement range hood or open shelving."

One easy solution is to have an outlet installed in a cabinet and stash a small microwave there. Then install a hood over the range.

Related: 13 Timeless Kitchen Ideas That Will Never Go Out of Style

You Have a Stainless Steel Hood

Contemporary range hoods are an opportunity for a design moment. Those old stainless steel ones just don’t have the same pizzazz or look very current. "To make a kitchen feel updated, create a range hood out of materials such as millwork, brass, plaster, or stone," interior designer Maggie Winshall says. "This will not only make your kitchen feel highly designed but cohesive and interesting."

There are so many options to create something beautiful, so if you have the space for a bold hood, take advantage!

You Have Short Backsplashes

The early 2000s saw short backsplashes rise in popularity for a while, but they quickly fell out of favor. “Less tall 4-inch backsplashes, common in older homes, are an outdated style," explains Kemmeter. "A modern kitchen keeps an open-height backsplash up to the ceiling to create a bold and clean look."

There Are Built-In Wine Racks

Sometimes finding a spot to store your wine can be a challenge, but those built-in wine racks are not a stylish solution. "Once a symbol of luxury, those diamond-shaped wine grids now make a kitchen feel stuck in the past," says Alice T. Chan , designer and project director at Freemodel.

"Instead, consider installing a wine fridge into your base cabinets for a sleek, modern touch, especially if a full-size wine fridge isn't an option," she adds.

Related: How to Store Wine so It Lasts as Long as Possible

Your Island Has a Raised Bar Level

Modern kitchen islands are typically one level, according to Chan. "Islands with a raised bar area break up the space and create a less efficient workspace," she says. "Consider leveling the island to a single, flat surface to make your kitchen feel more open and functional."

Your Lighting Has White Covers

Fun fact: White lighting covers age quickly because they turn yellowish, says Michele Iapicco , a consultant for Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting. "Instead, stick with timeless silhouettes with pretty metallics and crystals to give your kitchen a long-lasting fresh look," she advises.

You Own Speckled Countertops

Whether it’s terrazzo or '90s-style granite, the biggest giveaway of an old kitchen is a speckled countertop. Marble countertops with unique and bold veining will look the most current. Natural stone will also look more authentic than man-made stones or quartz.

Related: 12 Types of Countertops To Consider for Your Next Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel

Your Fridge Has an External Ice Maker

External ice makers, while convenient, can look dated. But this doesn’t mean you need to be without easy access to filtered water or ice cubes. Newer appliances have internal water taps in the fridge and ice in the freezer. If you’re looking to invest in appliances that won’t look dated in the coming years—opt for panel appliances. They truly give your kitchen a seamless, sleek look.

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