The Evolution of Interior Design: What’s In and Out for 2025

From Minimalism to Personality-Driven Spaces

The world of interior design is undergoing a significant shift as we approach 2025. According to Lucy Sutherland, an interior design expert at Temple and Webster, the days of stark minimalism and overly coordinated spaces are behind us. Instead, homeowners are embracing bold, colorful, and textured designs that reflect their personalities. Sutherland describes this shift as a "revolt" against the sterile, formulaic approach to decorating that dominated previous years. People are no longer satisfied with spaces that look like they belong in a showroom; instead, they crave environments that feel lived-in and personal. This trend is all about breaking free from the rules of traditional decorating and creating spaces that tell a story about the people who inhabit them.

The Decline of Millennial Gray and the Rise of Warm, Earthy Tones

One of the most notable trends on its way out is the "millennial gray" aesthetic, which has been a staple of interior design for years. Sutherland explains that while this color palette was once prized for its calming effects, it now feels outdated and uninspiring. The shift away from cool, monotonous grays is part of a larger movement toward warmer, earthier tones. Colors like olive green, rust, and terracotta are making a comeback, bringing a sense of natural warmth and coziness into homes. These earthy tones are often paired with rich textures such as plush fabrics, linens, rattans, and cork, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere that feels both inviting and grounding. The emphasis is on layering these elements to craft a space that feels deeply personal and connected to nature.

The Resurgence of Bold Colors and Retro Styles

In addition to earthy tones, bold and vibrant colors are also making a triumphant return. Sutherland highlights the rise of "dollhouse chic," a playful, ultra-feminine design trend characterized by soft pinks and whimsical details. This trend is closely tied to the "Barbiecore" aesthetic, which celebrates fun, bold, and unapologetically feminine design. Another trend gaining momentum is the revival of 1970s-style interiors. Deep red tones, glossy finishes, and colored glass are re-emerging as popular choices, adding a touch of nostalgia and glamour to modern spaces. The 1970s influence also extends to furniture, with the return of sunken lounge areas, or "conversation pits," which encourage socializing and a sense of community.

The Importance of Texture and Layering

Texture plays a crucial role in the new direction of interior design. Sutherland emphasizes the importance of layering different textures to create depth and visual interest in a room. From the softness of velvet cushions to the natural warmth of rattan furniture, mixing textures adds a tactile quality to a space that makes it feel more inviting and lived-in. Fringe details, tassels, and other embellishments are also being incorporated to add a playful, dynamic touch to interiors. This focus on texture is part of a broader movement toward creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also emotionally resonant.

The Influence of the Pandemic on Home Design

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the way we approach interior design. According to Sutherland, the prolonged time spent at home during lockdowns led people to reevaluate their living spaces. Homes became more than just functional environments; they became personal sanctuaries that reflected the personalities, memories, and values of their occupants. This shift has inspired a move toward cozier, more comforting interiors that feel like a true reflection of the people who live in them. The pandemic also accelerated the trend toward warmer, more inviting color palettes, as people sought to create spaces that fostered a sense of well-being and connection.

Embracing the Future of Interior Design

Looking ahead to 2025, it’s clear that interior design is becoming more expressive and personal than ever before. The days of sterile minimalism and formulaic decorating are giving way to bold, vibrant, and deeply personal spaces that reflect the unique tastes and experiences of those who inhabit them. Whether it’s through the use of earthy tones, retro styles, or playful textures, the future of interior design is all about creating environments that feel alive, inviting, and deeply connected to the people who call them home. As Sutherland puts it, the focus is no longer on what’s "correct" but on what brings joy and warmth to a space. This shift is a testament to the evolving ways we interact with and experience our homes, and it promises to make the world of interior design more exciting and inclusive than ever before.