Zoocasa
Sold Prices
Map
Market Insights
  • Blog Home
  • For Buyers
  • For Sellers
  • Real Estate News
  • Mortgage News in Canada
  • Free Guides (PDF)
  • Real Estate Infographics
Zoocasa
  • Blog Home
  • For Buyers
  • For Sellers
  • Real Estate News
  • Mortgage News in Canada
  • Free Guides (PDF)
  • Real Estate Infographics
Home Home Design

Design Trends 10 Years Ago: What Defined Mid-2010s Homes 

Kimmie Nguyen by Kimmie Nguyen
July 11, 2025
in Home Design
Reading Time: 5 mins read
A blue sofa in a room featuring a white wall and blue accent walls, creating a cohesive color scheme.
Share
Tweet
Share
0 Shares

Have you ever walked into a home and thought, “Wow, this feels stuck in the past”? That “past” might just be the design trends from 10 years ago. In 2014 and 2015, certain interior design trends were prevalent everywhere—from greige walls to barn doors and smart thermostats. But interior design evolves quickly, and what once felt fresh can now signal “dated” to today’s buyers.

If you’re planning to sell or renovate, understanding what was popular a decade ago can help you decide what to keep and what to change. Here’s what dominated the interior design world in 2014–2015—and how they compare to today’s styles. 

Jump Ahead

  • Paint Colours
  • Open Concepts 
  • Farmhouse Style
  • Scandinavian Minimalism
  • Smart Home Technology

Popular Paint Colours from 2014-2015

Back in 2014, walls were covered in soft, neutral tones. One of the most talked-about colours was greige, a mix of grey and beige. Other popular paint colours included navy blue, mint green, and classic beige. Paint brands like Benjamin Moore and Pantone picked shades like “Guilford Green” and “Marsala” as their Colours of the Year.

These colours showed up on walls, kitchen cabinets, pillows, curtains, and rugs. But in today’s market, some of these shades feel outdated. While greige has managed to remain somewhat timeless, others like mint green and warm beiges now feel a bit tired. For sellers, repainting in fresher hues like soft whites or warmer neutrals can instantly modernize a space without a full renovation. 

  • Read: Canada’s Hottest Condo Market of the Last Decade Might Surprise You (It’s Not Toronto or Vancouver)

Open Concepts 

Ten years ago, homeowners were knocking down walls left and right. Open-concept layouts where the kitchen, dining, and living rooms all flow together were extremely popular. Families loved them for casual entertaining and keeping an eye on kids while cooking.

Now, that trend has shifted a bit. After years of working and studying from home, many people want more defined spaces. While open layouts are still in demand, buyers also appreciate a little privacy and quiet. If you’re selling, use furniture or rugs to subtly divide open spaces and show buyers how each area can function.

Farmhouse Style and Rustic Features 

Thanks to shows like Fixer Upper, farmhouse design exploded in the mid-2010s. That meant shiplap walls, barn doors, black metal lights, and lots of distressed wood. These touches felt cozy and down-to-earth.

But now, many buyers see them as overdone. Too much rustic style can make a home feel outdated. In today’s market, a more refined version of rustic is more likely to appeal. Sellers may benefit from swapping in more neutral, transitional pieces.

Scandinavian Minimalism 

Another big trend 10 years ago was minimalist design inspired by Scandinavian style. Think clean white walls, pale wood furniture, and lots of natural light. IKEA helped make this look affordable and easy to pull off. Around the same time, mid-century modern furniture also made a big comeback.

Minimalism remains a great option for staging, as it makes rooms appear larger and cleaner. But today’s buyers are also drawn to warmer, more inviting spaces. Layering in some soft textures or cozy lighting can help balance a minimalist look without making it feel cold.

Early Smart Home Technology 

In 2014, smart home tech was just beginning to grow. Products like Nest thermostats, basic security systems, and app-controlled lights started popping up in homes.

Now, smart features are expected. Buyers look for smart locks, video doorbells, and full-home systems. If your home still features older technology, upgrading can help make your property feel more up-to-date. And if you’re buying, it’s worth checking how up-to-date the home’s systems are.

  • Read: 10 Years of Rising Mortgage Payments: The Canadian Cities Hit Hardest

Would You Still Pick These Styles Today? 

Some trends from 2014–2015 still work today, while others need a little help. Paint colours like greige and navy are still safe bets. But things like heavy farmhouse décor or basic tech setups might turn buyers off. If you’re getting ready to sell, updating your space with more current finishes can make a big difference. And if you’re buying, try to see past outdated home styles to the home’s potential underneath. 

Whether you love a retro look or prefer something current, Zoocasa can help you find a home that fits your style. Start your search today.

Previous Post

6 Best Cities for Affordable Luxury Homes in Canada Under $1M

Next Post

6 Lakes Close to Edmonton That Locals Love for Escapes and Retreats 

Kimmie Nguyen

Kimmie Nguyen

Kimmie Nguyen is the Data Analyst Assistant at Zoocasa where she plays a pivotal role in intertwining the intricacies of data analysis with the dynamic world of real estate. With a genuine passion for applying scientific insights into the realm of business, Kimmie brings a fresh perspective to the intersection of technology and real estate. Kimmie enjoys uncovering valuable insights in the ever-changing real estate market through the dynamic usage of data trends.

Related Posts

Home Design

10 Interior Design Styles That Shaped Home Decor Over the Last 10 Years

July 18, 2025
Home Design

10 Brick Homes Across the U.S. Featuring the Most Popular Brick Colors

July 13, 2025
A person holds a paint sample while standing in front of a ladder, preparing for a painting project.
Home Design

Pantone Colour of the Year: What the Last Decade Looked Like

July 8, 2025

Blog Search

No Result
View All Result

Newsletter Sign-up

Join a community of 130,000+ subscribers. Don't miss important real estate news, market data, and buying and selling tips.

Recent Articles

Tour 10 of the Craziest Houses for Sale in the U.S. Right Now

July 26, 2025
A woman sitting on a bed, looking relaxed, with a fan blowing gently beside her.

How to Keep Your Bed Cool in the Summer and Sleep Through the Heat

July 25, 2025

8 Best Malls in the GTA to Beat the Heat This Summer 

July 24, 2025
mountains, cherry blossom and vancouver skyline

6 Moments That Made Vancouver’s Market the Real Estate Rollercoaster Ride of a Decade 

July 23, 2025

Featured Listings

A black house perched on a rocky hill, surrounded by a clear blue sky and distant mountains.

Discover Canada’s Most Unique Homes: 14 Can’t-Miss Properties

July 17, 2025

6 Best Cities for Affordable Luxury Homes in Canada Under $1M

July 10, 2025

5 Canadian Cottage Regions That Make the Perfect U.S. Buyer Getaway 

June 15, 2025

From Skyline Views to Private Escapes: 5 Luxe Calgary Homes for Sale

June 10, 2025
first-time home buyer programs and rebates

Social Media

250 The Esplanade Suite 408 Toronto, ON M5A 4J5

Stay Connected

  • Blog Home
  • For Buyers
  • For Sellers
  • Real Estate News
  • Mortgage News in Canada
  • Free Guides (PDF)
  • Real Estate Infographics
No Result
View All Result

Zoocasa © 2007–2022. The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA.