The TikTok home and lifestyle trends that have taken the internet by storm aren't all they're cracked up to be, according to top interior designers and experts. While the short-form video platform has become a hotbed of inspiration, some of the most popular design ideas may not stand the test of time.
To separate the must-try trends from the ones you're better off avoiding, we spoke to industry authorities about the TikTok phenomenons they love - and the ones they loathe. What this really means is that homeowners should be cautious about blindly chasing viral aesthetics and instead focus on building a space that's truly personal and enduring.
The Good: Trends Worth Trying
One trend that experts are applauding? Colour drenching, the practice of painting walls, ceilings, and trim in a single, bold hue. As Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball, explains, "By extending one shade across walls, ceilings and woodwork, a room gains depth and unity, allowing architectural details and natural light to define the space rather than colour contrast."
Another trend that designers are embracing is the sunken sofa. While it may not work in every home, Ben Selby-Chase of Jewel Design Studio says that when done right, this mid-century inspired design can create "a deliberately social space that also offers a sense of separation and intimacy without walls."
The Bad: Trends to Avoid
On the other hand, some TikTok-fueled fads are better left in the digital realm. For example, the peel-and-stick marble countertops that have gone viral are a major no-no, according to Evelina Juzenaite, principal designer at Planner 5D. "These surfaces stain, bubble, and wear quickly, especially in kitchens or bathrooms," she warns. "The thin vinyl wrap simply isn't designed to withstand heat, moisture, or daily cleaning."
Another trend to avoid? The cottagecore aesthetic, which has gained traction among Gen Z. While the cozy, vintage-inspired look may be visually appealing, Ideal Home cautions that it can quickly feel "overly themed" and "a little too much."
The Bigger Picture
The key takeaway? Social media may be a wellspring of home inspiration, but that doesn't mean every trend is worth following. As Lauren Saab of Saab Studios puts it, "Following trends ages a home faster than anyone wants to admit, and the result never truly feels authentic."
The most stylish and enduring spaces, it seems, are the ones that reflect the homeowner's personal style and values, not the latest viral sensation. So before jumping on the bandwagon, consider how a trend aligns with your unique design sensibilities - and whether it has the staying power to stand the test of time.