1. Medicine Cabinets with Exposed Hinges
Old-school medicine cabinets with chunky frames and visible hinges are still common in older homes. They can look boxy and cheap, even if they’re functional. The mirror quality often degrades over time, adding to the dated vibe. In a world where clean lines are prized, they stand out for the wrong reasons.
Recessed cabinets or mirrored storage with hidden hinges blend into the wall seamlessly. They provide the same functionality but look far more intentional. Some even come with built-in lighting or outlets for extra convenience. This small change makes the bathroom feel higher-end without major remodeling.
2. Hollywood Vanity Lights
Those long strips of round, globe-style vanity lights above the mirror were once a go-to for bathroom glam. Unfortunately, they now feel clunky and overly theatrical. The bright, harsh bulbs also create unflattering lighting that makes everyday grooming a little less pleasant. They can overpower the entire space rather than complement it.
Contemporary bathrooms favor sconces or sleek LED fixtures that provide even, warm illumination. These designs highlight your face more naturally and are easier to pair with other decor choices. Upgrading the lights can instantly modernize the room without a full renovation. It’s one of the simplest fixes that packs a big punch.
3. Overly Ornate Faucets
Heavy, gold-toned or elaborately carved faucets were once thought to add elegance. Today, they just feel fussy and high-maintenance. The intricate details collect grime and require constant cleaning to look decent. They also clash with the streamlined aesthetic most people want now.
Matte black, brushed nickel, or even champagne bronze faucets provide a subtler kind of style. They balance function with a touch of personality without overwhelming the room. Plus, their simpler design makes them easier to clean. A small swap here can make the sink area feel instantly refreshed.
4. Carpeted Bathrooms
Carpet in the bathroom was once pitched as cozy and luxurious. In reality, it tends to trap moisture and odors, making it unhygienic and hard to maintain. Even with regular cleaning, the carpet can harbor mold and mildew. Today’s buyers usually see it as a red flag rather than a perk.
Tile, stone, or waterproof vinyl offer a much more practical and stylish alternative. These materials are easy to clean and stand up to daily splashes. Heated floors can even bring back the comfort factor without the hygiene issues. Choosing one of these options makes the whole bathroom feel thoughtfully updated.
5. Pedestal Sinks
Pedestal sinks look charming in small powder rooms, but in a main bathroom they quickly feel impractical. With no counter space or storage, they don’t meet the needs of most households. The style also feels more “builder grade” than boutique these days. Function usually wins out over form here.
Modern vanities, even compact ones, offer both a surface area and hidden storage. They come in styles ranging from sleek and floating to rustic and farmhouse-inspired. This change doesn’t just update the look—it also improves everyday usability. It’s an upgrade that feels smart rather than decorative.
6. Whirlpool Tubs
Those giant jetted tubs were once the ultimate luxury symbol. Now they mostly sit unused, taking up valuable space. The jets can also be noisy, hard to clean, and prone to mold buildup if not maintained perfectly. Many homeowners realize they’d rather have a bigger shower than a tub they never use.
Freestanding soaker tubs or walk-in showers have largely replaced whirlpools. They give bathrooms a spa-like atmosphere without the mechanical hassle. Plus, they’re easier to integrate into a sleek, modern layout. Downsizing here can actually feel like an upgrade.
7. Brass Fixtures (Polished and Shiny)
Polished brass fixtures once screamed “fancy,” but today they read as outdated. Their shiny, yellow-gold finish often clashes with contemporary neutral palettes. The color also shows fingerprints and water spots, adding more upkeep than most people want. They’re rarely chosen for new builds anymore.
Brushed brass or warm gold tones have made a comeback, but in softer, muted finishes. They look intentional rather than leftover from a past decade. This small distinction is what makes a bathroom feel updated rather than dated. Swapping hardware is an easy way to catch up with the times.
8. Giant Wall Mirrors
Bathrooms with one massive mirror stretching across the entire vanity wall used to feel high-end. Today, they tend to look impersonal and out of proportion. They can also make decorating harder because they dominate the wall space. It’s a case of bigger not always being better.
Framed or twin mirrors above sinks now feel more tailored. They give the vanity area balance and allow for interesting design details. Mirrors with rounded edges or black frames, for example, add a modern touch. This update makes the room feel more curated and less generic.
9. Beige-on-Beige Tile
Once considered the safe choice, beige tile everywhere now looks flat and uninspired. It can make the bathroom feel heavy, especially if grout has darkened with age. The monotone palette doesn’t provide the contrast that modern designs embrace. Instead of cozy, it often feels dull.
Bathrooms today lean into fresh neutrals like soft grays, whites, or even earthy greens. Patterned or textured tiles are also popular for adding visual interest. Just updating the flooring or shower walls can completely shift the room’s vibe. Even small doses of contrast go a long way.
10. Built-in Shower Radios or Phones
At one point, shower stalls with built-in radios or phones felt cutting-edge. Now they’re more likely to be broken or look comically outdated. The tech was never durable enough to stand up to moisture in the long run. Instead of convenience, they end up being clutter.
Waterproof Bluetooth speakers or smart home integrations have replaced them. These portable options provide the same experience without being permanently installed. They also let homeowners update easily when tech changes again. Built-in electronics just don’t age well in wet spaces.
11. Frosted Glass Shower Doors with Patterns
Shower doors etched with seashells, flowers, or geometric patterns were once a design highlight. Now, they immediately date a bathroom to the 1990s. The busy patterns can make the space feel smaller and visually cluttered. They’re also hard to clean around the etching.
Clear or lightly frosted glass is the modern go-to. It keeps the shower bright, makes the bathroom feel bigger, and highlights tile work inside. Frameless designs especially add a sleek, open feel. The shift is subtle but instantly recognizable as contemporary.
12. Glass Block Windows
Glass block windows once felt futuristic, but now they instantly stamp a bathroom as stuck in the 1980s or ’90s. Their bulky, opaque look tends to block natural light instead of letting it flow freely. Modern homeowners lean toward frosted or textured glass panels that offer both privacy and brightness. The change makes a bathroom feel more open and airy.
These windows are also hard to update or replace without tearing out the whole wall section. That level of permanence makes them feel more like a burden than a feature. Many people now prefer slimline windows or even skylights for privacy and ventilation. The swap creates a cleaner aesthetic that aligns with today’s minimal design preferences.
This post 12 Bathroom “Upgrades” That Make Homes Feel Dated was first published on Greenhouse Black.
