Top Interior Design Trends by 40 Experts and Home Decorators

Interior design trends can be tricky. Furnishing a home is a major investment, and the last thing you want is to spend your money on furniture that will feel outdated after just a couple of years.

Often, decor that looks amazing in photos or seems popular on social media doesn’t adapt well to the specific needs of your space, or it can be too expensive, impractical, or just hard to maintain. At the end of the day, good design should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

With so many new ideas popping up all the time, we wanted to cut through the noise. So, we reached out to 40 interior designers and asked them the following question:

We’re excited to see this design trend emerge and hope it will last so that an older generation can pass on their previously under-appreciated, but valuable antiques to those who will genuinely like them and maybe carry on this tradition. That trend has longevity and even sustainability.

Design trends that are already fading are the following:

COLOR - Somber, cold, gray, and too-neutral colors. Even though Mocha Mousse is the Pantone color of 2025, it’s a hard color to use. Warmer and cooler shades of brown have more longevity and work nicely with more complementary colors.

STYLE - Minimalism –it can always set a foundation for an interior, but people are opting for more pops of color, maybe because a minimalist style seems so rigid and or without much personality – unless the whole point is to show how Minimalistic one’s interior can be.

SHAPE – Hard, sharp edges on furniture, for instance, or built-ins, seem to be old-school but these can be timeless and modern when another more fluid piece, like a curvilinear table or wavy chandelier, is introduced. One tip is mixing an outdated or faded trend with an emerging one, which can reinvigorate the space, making it fresh and new.

From everything we’re seeing, getting back to decorating for purely enjoying your space and not for others’ approval appears to be the number one driver for interior design in 2025.

The interior design cycle churns consistently, and with it, so do several fads, including:

Retro color palettes: While these warm and inviting colors are once again popular and perhaps a shift from the “millennial gray,” there will still be pushes for neutral designs down the line. Similar to the once-popular accent wall, these 70s and 80s color waves will eventually wane in popularity.

Pattern drenching: Similar to retro color palettes, pattern drenching is a temporary hyperfixation for the maximalist designer. Rooms can be patterned drenched with stripes, florals, or other intricate designs, but this style can be a bit cumbersome to look at. Over time, people will grow less fond of this design trend.

The following design trends could be around to stay:

Mixed metals: While this term is more closely associated with jewelry, mixed metals have worked their way into the design sphere. This is an interesting concept to play with and can pair nicely with different textures and patterns in the kitchen or bathroom.

The trend could evolve into a staple, as designers could thoughtfully pair metals, or those on a budget could build around the fixtures they already have in their space to create a mixed metal look.

Natural flair: More homeowners and designers are incorporating natural touches in their spaces, and not just by adding plants to the entryway. These natural choices vary from stones to wood to natural fibers. Those who disapprove of fast fashion and plastic-based items may be more inclined to decorate their home with natural elements. This can work throughout the ages, and it presents a budget-friendly option for DIY designers who can artfully bring the outside in.

2025 will bring a deeper focus on nature and sustainability, which is at the heart of timeless interiors. Small changes can improve the look and feel of your space.

Overall, minimalism and using natural materials and colors will help to create an elegant yet relaxing environment. Clear your space and create a minimalist look, which will result in more peace of mind as you remove extra clutter and focus on a few key pieces.

Bring in earth tones, such as mocha mousse, Pantone’s 2025 color of the year, on walls, cushions, and accessories to create a cozy feel. Dramatic pops of color may be a fad, while the colors reminiscent of nature are here to stay.

Adding plants, whether big or small, in every room of your home will create an oasis you’ll feel great in. Plants not only add interest and sophistication with their many varieties, but will also remove toxins and let you breathe easier.

The temporary fad of using fake plants will be out as the beauty and benefits of living plants are realized. Bringing more nature themes into your space through artwork is sure to have a lasting impact on your home.

Some design trends catch our attention for a moment but quickly fade, like neon accents or the recent wave of hyper-saturated “Barbiecore” interiors. They create visual impact but often lack the versatility or practicality to last in real homes.

Open shelving in kitchens is another example: beautiful in theory and on Pinterest, but often difficult to maintain in busy, lived-in spaces.

In contrast, certain trends are emerging with more staying power. Biophilic design (bringing nature into the home through plants, natural textures, and organic materials) isn’t just about aesthetics. It supports wellbeing and reflects a broader shift toward sustainability and mindfulness in how we live.

Similarly, the rise of warm minimalism feels like a meaningful evolution. It softens minimalism’s often stark approach, focusing on comfort, texture, and warmth while still embracing simplicity.

We’re also seeing smart home technology shape interiors, from integrated lighting systems to intuitive climate control. These innovations are enhancing how spaces work, without compromising how they look.

We're seeing a rise in bold color blocking, checkerboard patterns, and playful, “dopamine décor”—while visually engaging, many of these looks lean more toward trend than timelessness.

They bring personality into a space but may not offer the longevity homeowners seek for larger-scale investments.

Conversely, the continued focus on wellness-driven design is here to stay. Biophilic elements, sustainable materials, and multi-functional spaces that support mental well-being and flexibility in daily life are becoming the new foundation of good design.

We're designing for how people live now—with beauty, durability, and health in mind. That mindset, paired with classic silhouettes and quality craftsmanship, is what truly stands the test of time.

When I look at today's design landscape, I'm always trying to separate what will stand the test of time from what we'll cringe at in five years.

It's clear to me that the return to Divided Spaces isn't just a passing whim. Our need for privacy and defined purpose in our homes is fundamental to well-being, not just aesthetics. Similarly, Emotional Minimalism reflects a deeper shift in how we value objects and curate our spaces with intention rather than accumulation and clutter.

Hidden Functionality might be my favorite lasting trend - kitchens that work hard but don't have to show off about it. The technology enabling this will evolve, but the principle of serene, uncluttered spaces that still deliver functionality will endure.

On the flip side, I already see statement stone reaching its peak in the kitchen. Those dramatic matched marble installations will date spaces faster than designers want to admit.

Open shelvingis a great idea in theory, but the practicality issues cannot be ignored. And while I appreciate a moody kitchen, dark kitchen schemes will inevitably swing back toward balance, although not all the way back to stark white.

I'm on the fence about the textural diversity.I love the concept, but it's at risk of being butchered by DIY applications. There's a fine line between richness and chaos that takes a trained eye to navigate.

According to House Beautiful, some of the top interior design trends for 2025 include kitchens packed with colour, sculptural lighting, pattern-drenching, dramatic drapery, immersive bathrooms, and cottagecore gardens.

While colourful kitchens, sculptural lighting, bold patterns, and dramatic drapery may sound fun and flashy, these trends are largely short-lived and likely to fade in the short term.

Colours, patterns, and lighting trends tend to shift frequently, so this should be taken into consideration when determining budget and timeline. In contrast, the trend towards immersive bathrooms and cottagecare gardens is more likely to have a long-term trajectory.

The immersive bathrooms movement is being driven by using these spaces as a spa experience, as opposed to just getting in and out. With the state of our world and increasingly stressful lives, I do believe this design concept will survive the test of time.

I also think the notion of a cottagecare garden, which is a low-maintenance strategy that reduces to need for constant weeding and pruning, is a fantastic fit for most lifestyles today.

When I think about decor that will stand the test of time, three styles come to mind.

First up, wall-to-wall carpeting. Lately, whenever I show a home with carpeting, people seem pretty bummed out. I can't even remember the last time a client was happy to see wall-to-wall carpeting throughout a house.

Next, let's talk about small kitchens. Kitchens are the heart of a home, right? Well, potential buyers don't seem too thrilled when they see a tiny, closed-in kitchen. Even if I try to spin it positively by saying things like "everything is right at your fingertips," it just doesn't seem to work.

And finally, closed-in layouts. The open floor plan is all the rage these days. The old-school boxed-in look is definitely out of style. I've had buyers walk into a home that checks off all their boxes, only to start wondering if they can knock down this wall or that wall. Homes with that boxy look are getting passed over more and more.

The trends here to stay are:

Warm accents and metals are now popular. Think brushed brass, champagne, gunmetal, and brushed nickel in lieu of chrome. White kitchens are passed with darker, moodier spaces being popular with a combination of different materials. Texture is important using products like steccawood, as is the comeback of timber finishes as highlights in kitchens.

Curves and organic shapes are popular as they soften the look of the space. Arches are back in, but only with thick walls. Natural stone is popular.

Biophilic design is at the forefront of trends. People understand the impact being connected to nature has on mood, health, and reducing the risk of sick building syndrome.

Sustainability is becoming more relevant with clients asking about low VOC paints and finishes, renewable materials, etc.

So many people are working in a hybrid work environment, and multipurpose spaces are becoming more important.

Coffee stations are either in the kitchen or the butler’s pantry.

Butlers/Walk-in Pantry with open plan, people want to hide the mess.

Luxurious bathrooms with large showers and feature baths.

Smart homes – voice-controlled ovens and fridges, remote control of cooling, heating, and lighting.

Fads like ultra-bold colours, ’70s retro touches, single accent walls, and barn doors feel more fleeting, while colour drenching sits somewhere in the middle—not quite a fad, but not yet a timeless staple either.

In the last few years, we have seen a return to all-white interiors, and that trend is on the way out, but I'm sure, because it is a classic, it will return.

As opposed to all-white, the all-black kitchen was popular recently, but it will be gone very soon. Go big or go home, in this case, go home with your big glam furniture, they no longer fit the times we live in.

We have been seeing wallpaper, especially in the bathroom, in our clients' homes lately. We have also seen people setting up more places to relax in their spaces, especially as life gets more and more stressful.

I believe the interior design trends that will have the most lasting impact are those rooted in wellness, a concept that holds deep personal meaning for me.

Designs that prioritise sustainability and embrace eco-conscious principles, along with biophilic elements that foster a connection to nature, are not only beautiful but essential.

These approaches are becoming fundamental to how we design living spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward more mindful, human-centered environments.

As awareness of our impact on the planet continues to grow, I see these trends not as passing movements but as vital components of the future of design.

On the other hand, certain trends appear more fleeting. Maximalism, for example, has seen a resurgence this year, characterized by an eclectic mix of antiques, layered textures, and saturated color palettes.

While this style can be a creative and exciting departure from minimalism, I always encourage clients to explore new ideas, as it’s not suited to every space or lifestyle. The "more is more" philosophy may resonate with some, but its broad appeal and staying power remain uncertain.

Like many stylistic trends, it offers room for experimentation but may not endure as a dominant design direction.

In a nutshell, as spring settles in and the spirit of clearing out our homes and closets takes shape, the annual mantra of “letting go of what no longer serves” lingers in the air. It has me and my team at Letter Four reflecting on which interior trends are being lovingly weeded out and which are being watered and nurtured for the seasons ahead.

On its way out: fast furniture is declining, not just for its lack of longevity, but due to rising tariffs on imported pieces, nudging people toward local makers, vintage and consignment boutiques, and taking the time to source more meaningful pieces. (Bye Temu!).

Next on our list, beige on beige interiors, once a comforting and underwhelming environment during the uncertainty of the COVID era, now feel bland and ephemeral. A thank you and farewell to the neutral and muted tones that created the soothing predictability when the world around us was anything but.

However, as life has picked up its rhythm again, I have noticed a collective craving for more vibrancy and character in interior spaces. More and more clients are seeking spaces that reflect their personal touches, individuality, and energy rather than safe minimalism.

Here to stay:

Color and pattern drenching. Whether it's an entire room or a singular large gesture, being unapologetic about a monochromatic moment is still at the top of our mood boards. Where deep, dark, gem-like tones bring mood and maturity, bright, bold, rainbow-kissed hues convey punch and playfulness.

Both have the power to anchor a space in a way that feels intentional without being expensive. It’s expressive, it’s personal, and it’s a much-needed breath of fresh air after years of neutral sameness.

And yes, the home office is sticking around, but not in the form of kitchen counters or dining room tables. We are seeing an embrace of spaces that support both work and play.

Less of a traditional "office" but a hybrid studio for painting, sculpting, and/or individual creative pursuits, but not necessarily a "craft room" (we are in LA, we make the most of the space we get!). We love this trend of homes becoming extensions of our creative lives, and that, to us, feels like a lasting shift.

It’s funny to call them trends because most of the “emerging” design ideas are former ideas that have been updated to feel fresh and new. Some of them will continue to be reinvented to stand the test of time. Those are the trends I love best. They feel hip and cool, but if based on good design principles, they also have staying power for you to love them forever.

As someone who walks through dozens of homes every month in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go. Some designs pop up like a viral meme—fun for a minute, but they don’t stick. Recently, I was walking through homes built in the early 2000s. The Roman-style interior design and lighting, along with gold fixtures, certainly feel out of place today.

On the flip side, I think trends like warm wood tones, mixed metals, and cozy, layered textures are here to stay—especially in the Midwest, where people want their homes to feel inviting, not sterile.

We’re also seeing more homeowners lean into classic elements like brick accent walls, built-ins, and arched doorways—design choices that nod to historic Cincinnati architecture while blending with modern function.

Biophilic design—think plants, big windows, and natural light—is another one I think will stay around for a while. It’s trendy, yes, but it’s also good for your mental health and liveability. And, we could all use some trends that help our mental health these days.

At the end of the day, good design in this region is about comfort, warmth, and timeless character. Checkerboard floors might fade, but thoughtful design that fits the way families actually live? That always sticks.

As we grow more mindful of how our lifestyle choices affect both the planet and our personal well-being, design trends like biophilic design and wellness-focused interiors are taking centre stage—and for good reason.

These approaches go beyond aesthetics, weaving nature into our everyday lives with elements like abundant natural light, fresh air, and organic materials. They don’t just look good—they make us feel good, too.

But what truly transforms a space from beautiful to unforgettable? You. Your space should be a reflection of your personality, your passions, and your story.

Whether it’s a bold colour palette, a gallery wall of meaningful art, or a quirky vintage chair you scored at a flea market, personal expression is what turns a house into a home. It’s not just about following trends—it’s about designing with heart.

That’s why some modern trends, like hyper-tech integration or ultra-minimalist “soft modernism,” can sometimes fall flat. Sleek? Absolutely. But do they nurture our deeper emotional needs? Not always. In the pursuit of calm and connection, more and more people are gravitating toward warmth, character, and nature-inspired elements.

In the end, the most powerful design is personal. It’s a blend of function, beauty, and authenticity—a space that supports your well-being while celebrating what makes you you.

When you design with intention and infuse your home with nature and personality, you don’t just create a stylish space—you create a sanctuary.

Temporary Fads: One trend I see fading is the obsession with hyper-neutral interiors. While neutrals can feel safe, humans naturally crave colour, and over time, life has a way of creeping into our spaces, and life is colourful.

Lasting Impact: Truly timeless interiors use colour intentionally. Sure, it’s smart to buy key pieces in neutral tones, but there’s no reason to limit an entire home to beige and white. Colour brings energy, personality, and depth, and it will always have a place in great design.

Warm minimalism and soft modernism are set to stay, with their focus on rich materiality, grounding silhouettes, and a sense of calm luxury. Earthy, muted palettes continue to dominate, bringing comfort and emotional warmth into everyday spaces. Tech will become even more discreet, working quietly in the background to make homes smarter and more intuitive. Custom millwork and built-ins remain timeless because thoughtful storage and tailored design never fall out of favour. And as biophilic design deepens, nature continues to be the industry’s greatest muse. Paired with multifunctional furniture and hybrid spaces, homes are evolving to be more human-centred and flexible than ever.

By contrast, several trends are beginning to lose their shine. Neon signs with playful quotes increasingly feel juvenile in more refined interiors, while dopamine décor, cluttercore and hyper-maximalist styling are proving too chaotic to be practical or genuinely beautiful. Mushroom lamps and wavy mirrors, though sculptural, have saturated the market and tend to overwhelm a space. Inflatable furniture is slipping away as quickly as it arrived—pure novelty, little function. And the stark all-white kitchen or bathroom, when left without contrast or texture, now reads as flat and uninspired rather than fresh.

There is an emerging trend of more cozy, lived-in spaces that isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, people are looking to retreat to a home they LOVE, and that includes curated vintage finds, eclectic mix & matched decor, cozy textiles and lighting, and an overall "homey" feel.

In many ways, this trend is pushing out minimalism and the ultra-modern look, as well.

On the opposite end, as technology advances, it seems like we'll never see the end of making homes as "smart" as possible - or will we?

While there will always be a market for the smartest home technology, so many are leaning away from the "smart home" trend, especially when it interferes with aesthetics. Cozy is in to stay, "smart" is unlikely to last, even as technology advances all around us.