12 Upgrades Gen X Grew Up With That Are Dated Now

Gen X grew up in homes that reflected the styles and priorities of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. While many of those features felt high-end at the time, today they come across as dated. Some are even resale killers if they haven’t been updated. If you grew up in this era, you’ll recognize these upgrades instantly—and probably won’t be rushing to bring them back.

Glass Block Walls

Glass block was once a go-to for adding light without sacrificing privacy.

You’d see it in bathrooms, basements, or even as kitchen dividers. While it felt modern then, now it often reads more like a mall hallway than a home upgrade.

Vertical Blinds

Sliding glass doors almost always came with vertical blinds.

The clunky plastic slats were functional but noisy and prone to breaking. Today, homeowners prefer curtains, Roman shades, or sliding panels for a softer look.

Honey Oak Cabinets

Every kitchen from the late ’80s into the ’90s seemed to feature honey oak.

It was durable but gave kitchens a heavy, orange-toned look. Painting or replacing these cabinets is one of the first updates new homeowners tackle.

Floral Sofas and Overstuffed Furniture

Comfort was the goal, but style didn’t always follow.

Massive floral couches with rolled arms filled family rooms. They were practical for kids, but their bulky presence feels overwhelming in modern homes.

Hollywood Vanity Lights

In bathrooms, exposed globe vanity lights were everywhere.

They were affordable and bright, but today’s styles lean toward sconces or sleek LED fixtures that create a softer, updated look.

Popcorn Ceilings

They were cheap and easy for builders to apply.

But they trapped dust, were hard to clean, and instantly date a home today. Many buyers walk into a house with popcorn ceilings and see a project.

Mirrored Closet Doors

Sliding mirrored doors made bedrooms feel bigger.

They also showed fingerprints constantly and gave bedrooms a dated, motel-like feel. Paneled wood or modern mirrored designs work better today.

Wall-to-Wall Beige Carpet

Carpet was a staple of Gen X homes.

Beige was considered “safe,” but it wore down quickly and showed every stain. Hardwood or luxury vinyl flooring has become the modern choice.

Ceiling Fans With Light Kits

Ceiling fans with ornate glass light shades were everywhere.

While ceiling fans are still practical, styles have shifted toward sleeker, blade-only models or updated light kits.

Built-In Entertainment Centers

Gen X households often had massive wood entertainment units.

They were designed for bulky TVs and VHS storage, but now they overwhelm rooms and feel unnecessary with today’s slim technology.

Wallpaper Borders

Instead of full wallpaper, borders were the trend.

Stripes, florals, or themed prints ran around the tops of walls. Today, they scream “dated” more than anything else.

Brass Everywhere

Shiny brass dominated doorknobs, faucets, and lighting.

While brass is making a comeback in muted, brushed finishes, the polished yellow tone from Gen X’s childhoods is still firmly stuck in the past.

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