Is 'Weird' The New Home Decor Trend (And Will It Wreck Your Resale Value)?

It's not uncommon to see the same safe home design trends popping up over and over again as you scroll through Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration. We're constantly inundated with minimalist, beige decor and cookie-cutter designs. That's why some designers online are calling for a shift to weird interiors. There seems to be a growing trend towards unexpected, unique elements to get your visitors talking. However, some of these ideas involve structural, permanent changes that may not be everyone's cup of tea. Who can blame a homeowner for trying to retain their resale value by playing it safe?

While you might find your quirky renovation charming, someone else may cringe at it. That's all good and well while you're living there, but if and when it comes time to put your home on the market, that trendy remodel might actually reduce your resale value. Practical projects such as replacing your garage door or minor kitchen remodels tend to offer a good bang for your buck. But if you stray too far into your own niche design preferences, you risk reducing the pool of potential buyers when you attempt to sell. People want to be able to picture themselves in your home. That pink accent wall or funky light fixture may turn away potential buyers. So what are some trends to avoid, and is there a resale-friendly way to express your weird style? Let's dive into it.

There is an array of design trends you'll want to avoid to preserve the value of your home. Statement tiles, bold color drenching, and eccentric built-ins are just a small sampling of design choices that can hurt your home value. Think to yourself: Will this remodel be difficult to undo? Is it timeless or will it serve as an obvious marker of the era you're in? It's a good rule of thumb to maintain an enduring, neutral style in your home or make renovations you can easily reverse when it comes time to sell.

Essentially, anything too 'weird' could wreck your resale value. Lily Walters, an interior designer on Instagram, started an entire series on making your home weirder. In one video, she references a slew of ideas to tap into unique design concepts. 

Some of these offer a harmless way to express yourself, while others may hurt your home's resale value. For instance, you can easily reverse some of her suggestions, such as the alligator toilet handle and the horn wall decor. These are fun, unique designs you're not married to. However, the synchronized swimmer tiles and horse-themed staircase are more permanent and thus vulnerable to scrutiny if you're trying to sell.

What some may find weird, others delight in. It's no fun making all of your design choices within the tight confines of what potential sellers might think. If you're not planning on staying in your house long and you want to retain value while having the space to express yourself, there's still plenty of room to play. Focus on reversible, low-commitment design options.

Rather than finding matching furniture sets or cohesive decor, shop around for individual pieces that bring you joy. Hand-carved eagle chairs, mounted bugs in shadow boxes, and unique light switch covers are all wonderfully weird pieces that won't affect your home's resale value. Lean into decor and replaceable elements and make your space your own. Scour estate sales and thrift shops for quirky, vintage decor. Try out removable wallpaper. Incorporate a funky area rug. The options are endless with some creativity and unadulterated weirdness!