9 styles that quietly disappeared from HGTV shows

If you’ve been watching HGTV for a while, you’ve probably noticed the design trends have shifted—big time. The farmhouse look has cooled off, gray walls aren’t the default anymore, and even shiplap isn’t getting the screen time it once did. What used to dominate every reveal has slowly faded out as trends move toward warmer tones, mixed materials, and more lived-in, layered spaces.

These are the styles that quietly disappeared from HGTV shows—once everywhere, now barely hanging on.

All-gray everything

There was a time when every HGTV home was covered in gray paint, gray floors, and gray furniture. It felt clean and safe, but eventually started looking lifeless on camera. Designers began realizing that too much gray made homes feel flat instead of fresh.

Now, you’ll see warm whites, taupes, and natural wood tones taking over. Gray still has its place in modern spaces, but it’s used sparingly—more as a grounding color than a full-house palette.

Modern farmhouse overload

After Fixer Upper took off, every renovation show tried to copy that rustic-meets-clean look. But white shiplap walls and barn doors eventually lost their charm. It got repetitive, and homeowners started asking for something different.

Today, you’ll see HGTV designers leaning into what they call “modern country” or “refined rustic”—keeping the cozy textures but adding more contrast, color, and unique details instead of the same farmhouse formula.

Industrial everything

There was a stretch when every open-concept loft on TV had exposed brick, black pipe shelving, and metal pendant lights. It looked great for a while, but the hard edges and darker palettes started to feel harsh on camera and dated in family homes.

Now, shows favor spaces that balance a mix of textures—like soft fabrics, natural wood, and lighter metals. The industrial trend isn’t gone completely, but it’s been toned down to feel more welcoming.

Word art and labeled decor

If you watched HGTV a few years ago, every kitchen seemed to have “EAT” on the wall and every laundry room had a “WASH • DRY • FOLD” sign. That literal, cutesy decor trend wore out fast.

Designers have quietly retired those signs in favor of more personal, meaningful touches—like framed art, vintage finds, or simple open shelves styled with plants and dishes. It feels more grown-up and less like a decor section display.

Subway tile overload

Subway tile was the go-to for nearly every kitchen and bathroom renovation. It’s classic, but after a while, all those white rectangles started to feel predictable. Even on HGTV, it got harder to make it look “new.”

These days, you’ll see more variety—handmade tiles, colorful glazes, and unique layouts that add personality without being flashy. Subway tile hasn’t vanished completely, but it’s definitely taken a back seat to trendier textures and patterns.

Matching furniture sets

There was a time when every reveal featured perfectly matched living room sets—same fabric, same finish, same everything. It made spaces look staged instead of lived in.

HGTV designers have moved toward mixing materials and styles, creating rooms that feel collected over time. You’ll see mismatched side tables, vintage chairs, and layered textures that make a home feel personal instead of showroom-perfect.

Shiplap overload

Shiplap was the HGTV signature for years—especially thanks to Fixer Upper. But eventually, even the show’s biggest fans got tired of seeing every wall covered in white planks.

Now, shiplap is used more intentionally. You might see it as an accent wall or ceiling feature instead of a whole-house treatment. Designers have traded it for limewash, paneling, or even textured plaster for a more natural look.

Ultra-open floor plans

Every HGTV build used to start with “We’re knocking down this wall.” It made for dramatic reveals, but in real life, those wide-open spaces weren’t always practical. People started wanting a bit more separation—especially after spending more time at home.

Lately, HGTV shows have reflected that shift. Designers are adding partial walls, archways, or cozy nooks to make homes feel more functional and less echoey. The open concept isn’t gone, but it’s no longer treated as a must-have.

Barn doors everywhere

Sliding barn doors used to show up in nearly every HGTV episode—they were cheap, stylish, and easy to install. But now, they’re quietly disappearing from modern remodels. They take up wall space, don’t block sound well, and clash with cleaner design styles.

You’ll see pocket doors, French doors, or full-height paneled options taking their place. It’s a small shift, but it signals how HGTV has moved toward more timeless, high-end details instead of quick, trendy touches.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.