Embellishing your walls with artwork and decor instantly adds character to a space. However, when it’s not done tastefully, certain wall art styles can be distracting, feel tacky, or even look outdated.

There are so many wall art trends to get inspiration from nowadays, from murals to gallery walls—but not all are created equal.

To help you sift through the noise and find the best look for your space, we tapped three designers for the wall art styles they find outdated, plus why they should be avoided and what they opt for instead.

Non-Authenticated Posters

Framed posters from museum exhibitions or non-authenticated reproductions are a no in interior designer Kendall Wilkinson’s book.

“Gone are the days when low-quality posters—especially from museum shows—were framed and hung as stand-ins for true art,” says Wilkinson, CEO and founder of Kendall Wilkinson Design. “These pieces often lack the depth, intention, and craftsmanship we look for when curating interiors.”

Instead, she suggests searching through accessible resources for authenticated, limited-edition lithographs and photography.

“For example, The Selects Gallery in New York is an excellent destination for discovering iconic and emerging fashion photographers,” Wilkinson says. “They offer curated, collectible works that bring a refined, editorial edge to a room—proof that art can be both personal and polished.”

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Faux Antiques

Like faux plants, faux antiques can similarly result in a space that doesn’t feel genuine. So, instead of opting for filler pieces with short-term trend appeal, find artwork that truly resonates with your style. It’s always nice to be able to tell a story about the piece and where you got it, too.

“I’m not a fan of anything inauthentic,” says Gregory Feller, principal designer and co-owner of Hudson Home. “For example, faux antique items, clocks, signs, shutters—anything that is not real. My thoughts: find the real thing or don’t do it.”

Overly Themed Artwork

Themes are an easy way to create cohesion with artwork, but when it leans into being in-your-face, it can take away from the effect.

“I’m not a fan of wall art with words like ‘beach’ or anything overly themed or cheesy—it tends to take away from a space rather than add to it,” says Stephanie Mahaney, founder and principal designer of Stephanie Rae Interiors. “I prefer pieces that feel more thoughtful or personal and can be styled in a way that still reflects your personality without feeling cliché.”

Package Deal Gallery Walls

Gallery walls are great as long as they include pieces you have collected or have meaning to you, Feller notes. However, he cautions against opting for ‘package deal’ gallery walls, which have pre-picked artwork.

“These are just sad,” Feller says. “Don’t be afraid to use your own imagination.”

Traditional Plaster Treatments

While Wilkinson deeply appreciates craftsmanship and historical references, she finds that traditional faux-finish plaster treatments can look dated or one-dimensional.

“Instead, we prefer to collaborate with visionary decorative artists who take the medium to a contemporary, elevated place,” the designer says. “Oakland-based Caroline Lizarraga is a favorite—her bespoke murals and expressive wall techniques turn surfaces into immersive art installations.”

Feature Walls

While feature walls gained popularity over the years as a way to introduce color or pattern to a space, Wilkinson finds that they can leave a room feeling visually disjointed or incomplete.

“In some cases, it can even read as an afterthought—like the wallpaper ran out or the design wasn’t fully committed,” she notes.

Instead, Wilkinson encourages a more holistic approach.

“Whether it’s a rich wallpaper, a custom mural, or an all-over decorative paint treatment, wrapping the entire room allows the walls to become a cohesive part of the design narrative,” she explains. “It creates a sense of enveloping beauty and intention that feels far more elevated and timeless.”

Fake Maps

Feller avoids framed maps unless they are vintage or original versions.

“Don’t put that fake vintage map of Paris on your wall unless it’s actually vintage,” he advises. “Again, anything that is inauthentic is a big no in my book.”

“Live, Laugh, Love” Signs

Farmhouse-style artwork that has phrases like “live, laugh, love” or “home is where the heart is” can be better replaced with artwork that actually evokes those feelings rather than being so explicit.

“Instead, I suggest hanging something that you love, makes you laugh, or even black and white photos of your family or friends,” Feller says.