Design Foward
Published: February 1st, 2025 | Written By: Sarah McNab
9 TRENDS WE CAN EXPECT TO SEE IN 2025!
The world of design is evolving faster than ever. We've got a list of trends that promise to transform the way we live this year!
Although interior designers aim to create spaces that stand the test of time, we can’t help but take note of the trends that emerge each year. These trends reflect the collective mood, needs, and aspirations of our society, so it’s important that we keep our finger on the pulse and use them as a springboard for creativity.
In January, our inboxes and social media feeds were inundated with articles predicting this year’s trends – and we eagerly devoured them all! To help save you time, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular trends that leading interior design publications (think Vogue, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Elle Décor and more!) all agree will shape the style and direction of 2025. There is a consensus that interior design will embrace a harmonious blend of comfort, personality, and rich color palettes to create spaces that are both inviting and reflective of individual tastes. We will continue to see a move away from minimalist design, in favour of layered interiors that are more daring in their design – let’s get into it!
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Rich, Saturated Hues, and Earth Tones
We’ve all heard that brown is making a comeback – and he’s bringing his friends along for the ride! Cool grays and traditional whites are being replaced by earthy, forest greens, soft sages, deep reds (think oxblood and maroon), and various shades of plums – like Cinnamon Slate, Benjamin Moore’s 2025 colour of the year.
This trend reflects a desire for more comforting spaces that are sophisticated yet tranquil.
2025 Colour of the Year - Cinnamon Slate
Photo Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
Colour Drenching
If you’re not familiar with colour drenching, just close your eyes and envision being enveloped in a bear hug by a saturated paint hue. Often used in smaller rooms or spaces, colour drenching creates drama, visually enlarges the space yet invokes a more intimate feeling at the same time. And the best news – less prep work needed!
Photo Courtesy of Decorilla
Curved Furniture and Organic Shapes
The rich, earthy colour palettes that have begun to dominate our social media feeds can often be seen paired with furniture, millwork, architectural elements, and decor that is curved – and the effect is undeniably soft and comforting.
Organic shapes, often inspired by nature, help to create balance against all the sharp angles and straight lines in a home and the result is a more harmonious design that feels fluid yet grounded.
Photo Courtesy of Rikki Snyder
Sustainable Materials
Each year, there is an increasing emphasis on incorporating more eco-friendly materials into interior design. According to www.reclaimdesign.org, the use of reclaimed wood, recycled metal and repurposed tiles in on the rise, which not only helps reduce the environmental footprint but also infuses a sense of history into designs. We’re also seeing more sustainable flooring options pop up. Bamboo and cork are two examples, chosen for their durability and renewability. Other materials we’ve begun to see more of in design are recycled glass, natural stone like marble, granite, and limestone, all of which can last for generations. Wool is another great renewable resource option as sheep regrow their fleece annually.
Venetian and lime plaster are eco-friendly materials that designers are using to bring depth and character to homes. In addition to being timeless, these materials are also valued for their breathability and ability to regulate humidity. Oh, and did we forget to the mention that the best part about using more natural, sustainably made materials is that they are healthier for the homeowners as they contain less toxins than made-made materials.
Photo Courtesy of Architectual Digest
Statement Ceilings and Lighting
Things are looking “up” for ceilings and lighting in 2025! Better Homes and Gardens called ceilings the fifth wall and we’re here for it! This year, expect to see more painted or wallpaper ceilings and lots of unique custom millwork. Ceiling treatments add depth and character and help to draw the eye up, giving the illusion of more space. And while you’re up there, don’t forget to install some gorgeous statement lighting!
While the demand for recessed lighting hasn’t gone away, designers will be leaning towards layered lighting strategies, which involves combining task and accent lighting to create different ambiances. The days where outlets only exist on walls are long gone; instead, there will be a focus on mindful outlet placement that will contribute to a more seamless design. We’ll also see designers going bolder with their selections, thanks to the plethora of lighting options that are as artful as they are functional.
Photo Courtesy of Reid Rolls, Design by Leanne Ford Interiors
Elegant Maximalist Design
Speaking of going bold, for every calm, soothing, earthy design we see in 2025, there will be another one that is as equally energizing, opulent, and dramatic. Maximalism design is full of rich colours, bold patterns, and layered textures and celebrates self expression. Some the staples you can expect to see are velvet and other luxurious fabrics, as well as statement lighting, ornate details on furniture and architectural features and carefully curated collections.
The intent of maximalism is to create spaces that are visually rich and expressive, that are also purposeful, harmonious, and refined. Warning - this style of design isn’t for the faint of heart, so be sure to leave this to your favourite interior designer so that the effect is creative and not chaotic!
Photo Courtesy of Farrow & Ball
Art Deco Antiques
According to a survey done by 1st Dibs, 1920’s and 1930’s style antiques are increasing in popularity and searches on the platform. Editorial Director Anthony Barzilay Freund maintains that the appeal is because these pieces are “anchored in the modern - streamlined forms, simplified ornamentation – while looking back to the craftsmanship and creativity that graces the best antiques.” Art deco antiques pair equally well with a neutral colour palette or deep jewel tones and can make a space feel layered with a touch of history.
Photo Courtesy of Simon Upton
Pattern Drenching
Another design concept creeping up in more places that isn’t for the faint of heart is pattern drenching. Pattern drenching means using pattern throughout a space—from the upholstery to the wallpaper to the rugs, textiles, and, occasionally, even the ceiling. Pattern drenching creates a unified aesthetic that is sure to cause some drama in the best way possible!
Pattern drenching can be one pattern repeated throughout a space, or it could a series of different patterns, all chosen to complement each other.
Photo Courtesy of Cathy Nordström/Fanny Radvik
Smart Homes
Not only are people craving more personalized design, but they also want their homes to work smarter, not harder! Smart technology is becoming more prevalent because it enhances convenience, efficiency, and security.
Some technology worth investing in for your home can include automatic shut off valves that cut water off when a leak is detected, and thermostats that you can schedule to help save heating costs when you are out.
There is so much that can be automated in today’s spaces – lighting, climate control, appliances, entertainment, window treatments – leaving us more time to do the things we love!
Interested in implementing any of these designs in your home?
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