10 "Old-Fashioned" Landscaping Ideas That Are Super Expensive To Upkeep

1. Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings can be an '80s-era eyesore, and new buyers don't want to deal with it. That's because many older popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, which can be hazardous if you mess with it. Make sure to have a pro test it before attempting to remove it. You can have it removed (best for homes without asbestos), cover it with drywall, or install wood planks like bead board or shiplap for a classic look.

2. Tiled or Laminate Countertops

Tiled countertops with worn grout or outdated laminate surfaces are long past their prime — it’s time for an upgrade, and you won’t regret it! There’s nothing like prepping meals on a fresh, clean surface that feels as good as it looks. Opt for quartz, a non-porous, low-maintenance choice that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Natural stone like marble, soapstone, or quartzite are timeless, and butcher block in light oak is perfect for a modern farmhouse aesthetic.

3. Golden Oak Cabinets

You don't necessarily need to swap out these stained wood cabinets that were once popular in '80s and '90s builds. Simply sand and give them a fresh coat of paint: Check out our Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors for 2025 for inspiration!

4. Outdated Fixtures

My mom had this exact bathroom sink fixture, and while she was gearing up for a pricey bathroom reno, I suggested a simple swap instead. I told her to replace just the fixture with something more modern, and she was beyond pleased with the results!

5. Brightly Painted Rooms

Kids are going to want bedroom paint colors that adults simply do not. Instead of committing to a wild wall color, consider a sophisticated neutral as the backdrop and incorporate their favorite hue through easily changeable items like bedding, decor, and artwork. Win-win!

6. Boob Lights

Replace any old light fixtures, like these ubiquitous "boob" lights, with an elegant ceiling mount or pendant.

7. Brass Mirror Closet Doors

If replacing the doors with modern wood doors isn’t an option, consider using matte spray paint or adhesive metal trim to give the brass a more modern finish in white or matte black.

8. Hollywood-Style Strip Lighting

Swap the kitschy strip lights for sleek wall sconces or a modern LED vanity light. Position sconces on either side of the mirror for balanced lighting. Look for matte black, brushed brass, or frosted glass finishes to instantly elevate your space.

9. Showers With Sliding Doors

Frameless glass enclosure are a modern upgrade to these outdated sliding doors. If a full replacement isn’t in the budget, consider an elegant shower curtain for a vintage-modern vibe.

10. Lack of Quality Window Treatments

My friend’s Tahoe home has no window treatments because she loves waking up to the sun. (As someone who prefers total darkness, I always pack an eye mask when I visit!) But her realtor recently advised that you needs to add well-made, well-fitted window treatments if she plans to sell or rent. Linen Roman shades or velvet drapes can elevate the space while adding warmth and privacy. For the best fit and style, consider working with a window treatment specialist to find the perfect solution for your home.

11. Outdated Ceiling Fans

Elements like ceiling fans come with the home purchase so make sure they're updated. Look for modern energy-efficient models with matte black, brushed nickel, or wood-toned finishes and remote or smart controls.

12. Bulky Furniture

Make sure your furniture fits the room — too big can feel cramped, too small can feel sparse. While pieces don’t need to be matchy-matchy, they should complement each other for a cohesive, well-balanced look. Look for an 8 x 10 rug or larger too to fit the space and hide any clutter!

13. Grey Laminate Flooring

Gray laminate flooring was once everywhere, but it’s officially time to move on — just like those gray sofas. Choose flooring that mimics the warmth of natural wood tones, such as light oak or rich walnut. If replacing the floors isn’t an option, layer in natural woven or wool rugs.

14. Too Much Ornamentation

Remove any ornamentation that feels out of place in your home or doesn’t align with your style. For an ornate built-in like this, consider painting it a single, cohesive color to tone down the detailing and create a more seamless, modern look.

15. Awkward Layout

To make your space modern and more inviting, start with a focal point (fireplace, TV, or statement art) and arrange seating around it for conversation. Use a sofa and chairs to create balance, adding a coffee table within reach. Incorporate side tables, lighting, and a rug to define the space. Make sure walkways are for better flow and functionality too. Color can make a big difference too, earthy tones with natural elements will make a room feel more inviting.

1. Warm, Organic Elements

Inspired by the snowy mountain landscape, Sierra filled the home with warm, organic elements that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Linen slipcovered chairs from Jenni Kayne, reclaimed oak dining table from RH, paper lantern lighting, and rich oak flooring create a sense of cozy elegance, while a flood of natural light makes the home feel so inviting.

2. Marble For Dramatic Impact

Sierra prioritized timeless materials, clean lines, and a fluid indoor-outdoor connection. The kitchen features Italian Calacatta Viola marble (a popular kitchen trend), adding a bit of drama to the quiet luxury aesthetic.

3. Custom Cabinetry

Custom white oak millwork and floors frame the snowy outdoors, making the inside feel warm and beautiful.

4. This Dining Nook

I'm obsessed with this breakfast nook with custom banquette, CB2 oak dining table, Arhaus Briton poufs, and a bunch of throw pillows from places like Jenni Kayne and custom from Sierra's Studio Mtn Shop. It's a showstopper and a place to get cozy and gather.

5. Investment Appliances

A 55” Lacanche range and Fisher & Paykel appliances balance high-quality functionality with elevated aesthetics.

6. Open Shelving

Open shelving, to me, is the perfect way to add personality to your kitchen. I adore beautiful glassware and pottery, and it's the ideal space to showcase your favorite collections.

7. Organization & Symmetry

One of the greatest challenges of the project was maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy within the home’s expansive, modern layout. Sierra achieved this by layering lighting, incorporating rich material contrasts like oak and marble and being thoughtful about spatial planning.

Sierra's tip for making a space feel cohesive?

"Don't be afraid to start from scratch on a blank canvas, focusing on just a few key feelings you want to evoke from your space (serenity, energy, coziness, etc)," she says. "If you can pare down to the core feelings you want from the space, it helps to make all decisions after that from inspiration images all the way down to your silverware easier to make. When you have a cohesive idea of what you want to feel, it helps define and focus the end result."

By using the same cabinetry throughout the home, Sierra creates a sense of cohesion and balance. This design choice enhances the home's flow, making each space feel thoughtfully connected. And this bedroom moment — framing the breathtaking mountain landscape — is simply lovely.

Who's ready for the most luxurious bath? The symmetry here with the matching Jenni Kayne sheepskin rugs is making me swoon. I also love the use of actual drapes in the bathroom, perfect for this large window. "Incorporating shapes and texture into a design is the best way to make sure that neutrals stay interesting and elevated," says Sierra.

8. Mixed Materials

When you're designing a neutral home, experimenting with unique textures is key to making it not boring. Pairing tactile elements like woven accents, natural stone, and soft textiles can bring warmth and interest to otherwise simple spaces. Arhaus framed artwork complement the textile experience in the guest room.

"For the bedrooms, we wanted the bedrooms to feel serene and neutral while still cozy and warm," says Sierra. "We drew from our California vernacular in terms of color palette, but blended with more mountain forward textures like shearling and antique rugs for a refined but rustic feel."

A simple marble end table paired with a sheepskin reading chair and footstool from Eternity Modern (so cozy!) is the perfect balance of hard and soft in the master bedroom.

9. Tadelakt Finishes

10. Elegant Storage

Everything in the home has a purpose, and the thoughtful storage solutions, like the Annora Bookcase from AllModern, keep the space clean and minimal, allowing the luxe furnishings and breathtaking views to take center stage.

Custom cabinetry, built-in consoles, and sleek bookshelves contribute to an organized aesthetic, making the entire home feel curated and intentionally designed. The result is a home that feels luxurious, deeply connected to its natural surroundings, and designed for both comfort and timeless beauty.

Where can I watch season 2 of When Hope Calls?

New episodes of When Hope Calls are premiering on PureFlix Thursday, April 3, 2025 and Great American Family Sunday April 6, 2025.

What is When Hope Calls about?

The TV show follows Lillian (Morgan Kohan) and Grace (Jocelyn Hudon), who were separated as children after the death of their parents. Reunited as adults in 1916, and still healing from past wounds, the sisters open an orphanage of their own in the Canadian town of Brookfield, and quickly fall in love with the children — and handsome strangers — they meet.

Who's in the When Hope Calls cast?

The When Hope Calls season 2 cast features some incredible names, including your favorite Sullivan's Crossing star! Here's the full breakdown:

• Morgan Kohan as Lillian Walsh: Grace's older sister who was adopted after the death of their parents.
• Ryan-James Hatanaka as Gabriel "Gabe" Kinslow: a local Mountie who catches Lillian's eye.
• Wendy Crewson as Tess Steward: the owner of the big local ranch and Chuck's mother
• Hanneke Talbot as Maggie Parsons: Brookfield's new nurse
• Marshall Williams as Sam Tremblay: a newcomer who works as a handyman at Lillian's orphanage
• Neil Crone as Ronnie Stewart: the hotel manager who's also Tess's brother-in-law
• Christopher Russell as Michael Fletcher: a new Mountie in Brookfield.
• Sarah Fisher as Hannah Lawrence: a woman in town who's recently inherited a ranch.
• Nick Bateman as Wyatt: Hannah's foreman.
• Cindy Busby as Nora: a lawyer.

How many episodes of When Hope Calls season 2 are there?

There will be eight episodes of When Hope Calls season 2 total, premiering on April 3, 2025. Stay tuned for the full schedule!

Why is Grace no longer on When Hope Calls?

Because of scheduling conflicts, actress Jocelyn Hudon was not able to appear in the When Hope Calls Christmas specials. To explain her absence, the show wrote that Grace moved to England to open an orphanage there. I have all my fingers crossed we'll see her make a season 2 guest appearance, though!

Will there be more season 2 of When Hope Calls?

Yes, season 2 is coming! The When Hope Calls: A Country Christmas holiday special premiered in 2021, but it's not necessarily part of season 2 of the show. You can rewatch the special anytime you want on PureFlix.