Top 9+ Outdoor Features Designers Say Make Homes Feel Dated (And What to Do Instead)

Old-School Concrete Patios

Once upon a time, concrete patios were the ultimate backyard upgrade. But now, designers say these flat, gray slabs instantly age a home.

Modern homeowners want outdoor living spaces that blend with nature and feel welcoming. Concrete patios can crack, stain, and get uncomfortably hot in the sun, making them less appealing.

According to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors, 68% of buyers said they prefer natural materials like stone or pavers over plain concrete. Designers recommend swapping out old concrete for textured pavers, large-format tiles, or even composite decking.

These materials not only look more current, but they also offer better drainage and are easier to maintain. Even adding a decorative overlay or staining the concrete a warmer tone can refresh the space without a full renovation.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link fences might have been practical in the past, but today, they scream "dated." Designers point out that these fences lack privacy, look industrial, and rarely complement a home's style. Real estate data shows that properties with chain link fences tend to sell for less, with Zillow reporting up to a 5% drop in perceived value.

The modern alternative? Opt for horizontal wood slat fences or living green walls.

These options provide privacy, enhance curb appeal, and can even help with noise reduction. Bamboo, vinyl, or composite fences are also popular for their durability and low maintenance.

The right fence can completely transform a yard from tired to trendy.

Overgrown Shrubs and Foundation Plantings

Homes surrounded by towering, overgrown shrubs feel stuck in the past. These plantings were once standard for hiding foundations, but now they often block light, trap moisture, and make homes look neglected.

The American Society of Landscape Architects notes that buyers today want open, layered planting beds with a mix of heights, colors, and textures. Designers recommend removing oversized bushes and replacing them with native grasses, flowering perennials, and low shrubs.

Mulched beds edged with stone or steel add a crisp, contemporary look. This approach not only updates the appearance but also boosts biodiversity and requires less maintenance.

Decorative Garden Statues and Gnomes

Garden gnomes and quirky statues were once a fun way to personalize outdoor spaces, but designers now say these elements can date a home fast. According to a 2022 Houzz landscaping report, minimalist gardens are in style, with 73% of homeowners preferring clean lines and natural elements.

Instead of cluttering the yard with figurines, designers suggest focal points like a sculptural boulder, a modern birdbath, or a sleek water feature. These elements draw the eye without overwhelming the space and work with almost any architectural style.

Less is truly more when it comes to outdoor decor.

Fake Grass (AstroTurf) Lawns

Artificial turf may seem convenient, but it often looks unnatural and can make homes feel out of touch. Environmental groups also warn that fake grass can contribute to heat islands and harm local ecosystems.

A 2023 survey from the Lawn Institute found that 81% of homeowners would rather have a real lawn or a mix of ground covers than artificial turf. Designers now recommend drought-tolerant native grasses, clover, or even gravel gardens for a modern, eco-friendly look.

These options require less water and maintenance while providing habitat for pollinators and a softer, more inviting feel underfoot.

Old-School Outdoor Lighting

Outdated lighting, such as harsh floodlights or old lantern-style fixtures, can make a home look stuck in the past. These lights often cast uneven, unflattering light and waste energy.

The American Lighting Association suggests that 90% of new outdoor lighting projects in 2023 used LED technology, which is not only energy-efficient but also offers better control over color and brightness. Designers recommend replacing old fixtures with sleek, dark-sky compliant LEDs or integrated strip lighting.

Uplighting trees, illuminating pathways, and adding soft string lights can instantly modernize any outdoor space and improve safety.

Wrought Iron Railings and Gates

Wrought iron railings and gates were once considered elegant, but many of today’s designs look heavy and dated, especially if they’re ornate or rusting. Realtors note that buyers often see these features as high-maintenance and old-fashioned.

Instead, designers are turning to powder-coated aluminum or horizontal wood slats for a lighter, more modern look. Glass railings are also gaining popularity, creating a sense of openness and letting gardens take center stage.

Even painting existing iron railings a matte black or charcoal can update their appearance without a full replacement.

Pea Gravel Driveways and Paths

Pea gravel was a budget-friendly choice for driveways and paths for decades, but it’s now seen as messy and impractical. Gravel can scatter, become uneven, and get stuck in shoes, making it less ideal for families or anyone with mobility concerns.

According to a 2023 HomeAdvisor report, paver and concrete driveways now dominate new installations, with pavers being chosen for their style and durability. Designers recommend replacing pea gravel with large pavers, stone slabs, or even permeable brick for a polished look that stands up to weather.

These surfaces are easier to walk on and instantly boost curb appeal.

Plastic Outdoor Furniture

Plastic patio furniture is one of the fastest ways to date an outdoor living area. While affordable, it fades, cracks, and rarely matches the quality of today’s stylish outdoor spaces.

Consumer Reports found that 67% of homeowners buying new outdoor furniture in 2023 chose metal, teak, or resin wicker for both aesthetics and durability. Designers recommend investing in timeless, weather-resistant materials and adding plush cushions for comfort.

Modular seating, fire pits, and outdoor rugs are also trending, creating spaces that feel like true extensions of the home. Quality over quantity is the new rule for outdoor furniture.

Stamped Concrete with Outdated Patterns

Stamped concrete patios and walkways with brick or cobblestone patterns were a big trend in the early 2000s. Now, these patterns are seen as artificial and detract from a home’s value.

The National Association of Landscape Professionals notes that modern buyers prefer simple, neutral finishes that let plants and architecture shine. If you have stamped concrete, consider resurfacing it with a subtle, modern overlay or staining it a solid color.

Alternatively, breaking up large concrete areas with planting beds or new pavers can refresh the space without a complete overhaul. The goal is to create a timeless backdrop that won’t look dated in a few years.

White Vinyl Siding Accents Outside

White vinyl siding on outdoor features like sheds, fences, or pergolas was once considered maintenance-free and bright, but today, it feels generic and can yellow over time. Designers say homeowners now prefer materials with more texture and warmth, such as stained wood, fiber cement, or even painted brick.

Houzz's 2023 trend report found a 39% increase in requests for natural wood and composite finishes over vinyl. Swapping out white vinyl for rich, earthy tones or even a bold color can give outdoor structures a fresh, modern look that stands out in the neighborhood.