4 Outdated Light Fixtures You Should Swap Out ASAP

Nix these pieces if you want a more modern home.

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The right light fixture can have a major impact on any room of the home, large or small. Lauren Carranza, the founder of Seasons for Design, views lighting as "jewelry that completes the outfit." It is by no means an insignificant feature within a space. However, not all lighting is created equal. Many fixtures are thought of as being past their prime and can make your home look dated. Below, designers highlight four types of light fixtures that you will most likely want to replace ASAP.

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These dome-shaped glass lights, irreverently known to many as "boob" lights, are a major pet peeve for many designers. Evelyn Pierce Smith, the founder of Evelyn Pierce Design Studio, says that these fixtures "scream builder" and are reminiscent of the 2000s.

Carranza is also averse to this style. "There are so many more interesting options available," she says. "Consider replacing builder-grade flush mount lights with fixtures featuring linen or natural marble domes to create a warm ambiance."

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Rusty, overly intricate dining room chandeliers are common in older homes but aren't really in style today, says Liz Kirby, the founder of Surf Road Interiors. "Replacing these with more modern options can instantly transform your dining space," she says. "We love glass or rattan dining fixtures depending on the vibe of the home."

Sara Swabb, the founder of Storie Collective, agrees that brass chandeliers with polished glass "tend to feel outdated and overly formal, especially with their ornate details and faux candlestick bulbs." Lighting today should have more warmth and depth to it, the designer explains.

"A more thoughtful alternative is a vintage light fixture from the 1950s in genuine, unlacquered brass with opal or Murano glass shades," Swabb says. "Unlike its shinier, newer counterparts, unlacquered brass develops a beautiful patina over time, offering an organic, understated elegance that only improves with age."

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Often used in basements, track lighting "has a super sterile feel," says Elaine Burns Thompson, the founder of Pistachio Designs. "As an alternative, adding a mixture of floor or table lamps can make these spaces feel more cozy and inviting," she says, adding that ultimately, lighting should reflect your personal style.

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Lauren Waldorf Mendenhall, the founder of Lauren Waldorf Interiors, says, "There’s something about an exposed bulb that almost gives me the creeps, not to mention the hassle of cleaning clear shades." As such, she advises skipping such fixtures—or making some aesthetic changes.

"As an alternative, I’d go for an opaque milk glass or colored glass," the designer says. "In some cases, you might even be able to swap the shades without having to replace the whole fixture."