16-07-2025
The five interior design trends that can knock thousands off the value of your home, including a popular colour scheme that's 'uninviting' to buyers
When it comes to selling your place, first impressions really do count. While personal touches are what make a house feel like home, a few questionable design choices can be so unappealing to buyers that they end up knocking thousands off your property's value.
To help you spot the trends worth dodging, we asked top interior designer at Decor and Decor, Rossella Marzocchella, to share the five features she thinks turn buyers off. From a trendy Instagram storage solution to perhaps the most common colour scheme, here are the styles to avoid if you're planning on selling up…
Bold wallpaper
While statement walls can add personality to your space, the bolder a wallpaper or design is, the more controversial it's going to be when it comes to buyers. Marzocchella warns against quirky murals or loud prints, particularly in smaller rooms, advising: 'If the décor dominates the space, it's impossible for buyers to imagine their own style and flair in your home.'
Instead, she recommends opting for 'soft, neutral tones and subtle patterns that complement rather than overwhelm.'
'There are ways to add personality without it being all-consuming,' Marzocchella adds. 'Classic wallpapers can be accessorised with more out-there hardware, like stylish handles and knobs, to create an elegant look that can be easily tweaked by new owners.'
Wall-mounted media
Custom media walls with fancy LED lighting and wall-mounted TVs might look bougie, but they date quickly and restrict buyers to a living space with only one usable tech set-up.
'Buyers often look at these bespoke designs and worry they'll be expensive and hard work to move, should they want their TV in a different place,' Marzocchella warns.
'A better idea is to stick to a simple media setup with neutral, timeless fittings and flexible wiring,' she suggests. 'That way, future owners can personalise the space without major rewiring or expensive electrical work.'
Open shelving
Search #interiorinspo on Instagram or TikTok and open shelves and cupboards are everywhere. From kitchens to bedrooms, we've swapped discreet storage for visible display units that show off your belongings when properly organised – but let's be honest, they aren't always practical.
'Visible clutter is such a turn-off,' Marzocchella warns, 'and not everyone appreciates the constant need to keep shelves perfectly styled – which is essential when you opt for open units.'
'My advice would be to balance trendy open shelving – where you can show off home accessories – with plenty of concealed storage. This will help blend functionality and style, keeping your space neat and making it more appealing to buyers with families or busy schedules.'
Converted or removed storage
Removing built-in wardrobes or under-stair storage to open up space might seem like a smart solution – but it can backfire, Marzocchella says.
'Storage is one of the most valued features for buyers,' she points out. 'Taking it away can make a home seem less practical and shrink perceived usable space.' She suggests opting for practical but trendy storage solutions – under-stair bookshelves and the like – to balance a clean, airy look with enough room to store your stuff.
All-grey interiors
Grey was once the darling of home décor – it's understated and goes with everything. But as dopamine-filled, maximalist interiors come back into fashion, an entirely grey home can feel cold and outdated, particularly when paired with budget fittings or poor lighting.
'A grey palette can make a space feel uninviting rather than calming,' Marzocchella explains. 'You need to balance understated colour schemes with warm accents and textures.'
'If you are a fan of grey, white or cream colour schemes, opt for warmer accents like wooden handles or brass knobs to add warmth and interest. Even subtle touches can transform a grey place into a more welcoming home.'
