As we step into 2025, interior design is evolving. Though some trends have dominated for years (still seeing gray everywhere?), it’s time to say goodbye to certain choices and focus on fresh, functional, and future-forward ideas. Think personalization, sustainability, and timeless aesthetics.
Here are five interior design trends to leave in 2024 and what you should embrace when decorating your home instead.
1. Bye-bye all white, hello warm minimalism.
The stark, all-white interior had its moment—especially with minimalists. But in 2025, these spaces may feel sterile and need more character. Enter warm minimalism with earthy tones, natural textures, and subtle contrasts. This approach, using neutrals like taupe, beige, soft terracotta, or natural materials like wood, linen, and stone, adds texture and depth to your living spaces. It’ll feel simple but inviting and lived in at the same time, says an interior designer in Carmel, IN.
2. Embrace sustainable statement pieces instead of fast furniture.
Like fast fashion, mass-produced, inexpensive furniture is convenient and relatively easy to purchase. However, these pieces usually lack durability and style. Not to mention, there has been a growing awareness around sustainability, which will likely continue in 2025. So, instead of fast furnishings, invest in timeless, high-quality furniture crafted from sustainable materials. For those who are budget-conscious, vintage and upcycled pieces are excellent choices to add character and reduce environmental impact.
3. Swap maximalism for a curated personality.
The “more is more” philosophy brought personality into homes. However, it’s a slippery slope that can quickly become chaos and clutter. Think overloaded shelves and mismatched patterns. When combined, all of that can feel overwhelming rather than cozy. Instead, focus on a curated approach to your home decorating style. Choose a few meaningful statement pieces and pair them with simpler surroundings to create balance. Doing so will inject your personality into a space without suffocating it.
4. Ditch open shelving and use stylish storage instead.
Open shelving has been popular for showcasing décor and kitchen wares and giving spaces a sense of openness. As we enter the new year, many people will replace open shelving with closed cabinetry. But that doesn’t mean the feeling of openness is going away. If you like the look of transparency, glass front cabinets allow you to peek at what’s inside without it being so in your face. Alternatively, unique cabinet finishes can strike a balance between display and functionality.
5. Retire over-the-top accent walls and swap for subtle layering.
Accent walls in bold colors or covered in dramatic wallpaper were once a go-to for adding flair to a room. But this trend is starting to feel outdated and heavy-handed. In 2025, layering textures, patterns, and materials across the entire room can feel like a fresh alternative. Try grasscloth wallpaper, textured plaster finishes, or a soft ombre paint effect to create depth and interest.
Make refreshing your home one of your 2025 New Year’s resolutions. By moving away from trends that no longer serve us, you can create a home that feels timeless, functional, and uniquely yours.
