As we step into 2025, the realm of interior design is undergoing significant evolution. This shift also signals a departure from certain trends that have dominated the past few years and are now deemed cringeworthy by many experts. The aim is to create a more sophisticated, timeless, and practical aesthetic in home decor. By reflecting on the interior trends of 2024 that are better left behind, we also set a course towards more balanced and nature-inspired design choices for 2025 and beyond.
The world of interior design is always shifting, evolving, and reflecting new tastes and societal moods. As we step into 2025, we’re witnessing not just a change but a pendulum swing in design philosophies. Many trends that once captured our imagination are now being replaced by new visions that combine sophistication with practicality. This pivot isn’t merely about surface aesthetics; it seeks to align home decor with deeper, more enduring values, emphasizing longevity, environmental connection, and personal harmony.
Trends to Leave Behind in 2025
Overly Wavy Décor
Early 2020s decor heavily featured wavy designs, such as squiggly mirrors, abstract candles, and quirky prints. These items were especially popular among Gen Z, driven by Scandinavian influencers like Gustaf Westman. However, 2025 sees a pivot towards designs inspired by nature, pushing aside synthetic and overly playful shapes. Chloe Barrow from Laura James predicts a growing trend towards organic textures and patterns that evoke a sense of groundedness and environmental connection. Materials like raw stone or ceramic in fluid and natural forms are predicted to replace the abstract and playful shapes prevalent in recent years. This change aims to achieve a more harmonious and enduring design aesthetic that seamlessly blends with various styles.
This shift is about more than just preference—it’s about resonance. Overly wavy and synthetic shapes, while initially captivating, can begin to feel tiresome and out of place. The new design ethos embraces materials that remind us of the natural world and its quiet strength. These organic forms not only bring a sense of peace but also contribute to a home environment that feels more grounded and timeless. By exchanging wavy decor for elements that mimic the gentle curves and textures of nature, homeowners can create spaces that are both relaxing and resilient against the fleeting nature of trends.
Fridgescaping
Fridgescaping involves decorating the interior of the refrigerator as meticulously as a table setting, showcasing fresh goods with artistic flair. While aesthetically pleasing, maintaining such intricate arrangements is impractical and time-consuming. Punteha van Terheyden of H&G’s Solved argues for prioritizing functional organization over aesthetic fridgescaping. She suggests investing in smart storage solutions like tiered or stackable organizers, which help reduce food waste and enhance the practical usability of refrigerators. Items like stackable lids with drainage and compact lazy susans offer a more beneficial approach to maintaining fresh produce and staying organized.
The concept sounds delightful in theory—opening your fridge to a visually pleasing arrangement of fresh produce and neatly stacked containers. However, the reality is far from practical. The time and effort required to maintain such elaborate setups can be better spent elsewhere. Instead of focusing on aesthetics within an appliance designed for practicality, investing in functional storage solutions can transform your refrigerator into an efficient and organized space that genuinely serves your day-to-day needs. This practical approach not only enhances usability but also encourages better food conservation, which holds significant environmental benefits.
Cottagecore
Cottagecore reached peak popularity around 2020, focusing on a cozy, countryside vibe characterized by floral chintz and ruffled curtains. In 2025, there’s a shift towards a modern and versatile maritime style. Chloe Barrow notes that while elements of countryside living still appeal, the trend is moving towards lighter and fresher aesthetics. This new direction swaps floral prints for textured blues and ruffled curtains for sleek linen drapes. It marks a broader shift towards creating interiors that feel airy and open, reflecting more contemporary lifestyle preferences.
The charm of Cottagecore lies in its nostalgia and simplicity, but as we move into 2025, there’s a growing desire for designs that feel lighter and more versatile. The maritime style bridges this gap perfectly, offering a refreshing update to the rustic charm of Cottagecore. This new trend emphasizes light elements and neutral tones reminiscent of coastal living, creating spaces that feel both modern and relaxing. Whether through the use of soft whites and deep blues or the incorporation of natural textures like light oak and woven fabrics, the maritime style promises to transform interiors into serene havens, providing a getaway within the comfort of your own home.
Trends to Embrace in 2025
Dark Neutrals
Dark wood is timeless, and with Pantone’s Mocha Mousse being 2025’s Color of the Year, dark neutrals are expected to gain prominence. Rich, earthy tones like mahogany and chestnut are set to dominate interior spaces. Chloe Barrow predicts these colors will add depth and elegance, making rooms feel cozy yet refined. They work particularly well in homes inspired by Edwardian and Victorian eras. Darker neutrals provide an excellent foundation for experimenting with textures. For instance, pairing a mahogany wall with velvet cushions or a wool throw can create a luxurious atmosphere. These colors also complement bold accent hues like mustard or teal, allowing for vibrant decor while maintaining a classic aesthetic.
The allure of dark neutrals lies in their ability to simultaneously offer warmth and sophistication. These shades act as a canvas upon which layers of texture and color can be built. Their rich tones add a sense of depth to a space, making it feel more intimate and timeless. The versatility of dark neutrals allows them to be paired with a wide variety of materials and accent colors, enabling endless possibilities in design without overwhelming the senses. This trend promises to bring a touch of elegance and tranquility to any home, setting a serene backdrop for other elements to shine.
Maritime Style
Regardless of geographic location, the maritime style evokes a sense of calm and escape, inspired by coastal living. This trend features deep blues, soft whites, and nautical influences, focusing more on subtlety than on direct nautical symbols like anchors or stripes. Chloe Barrow emphasizes integrating elements like woven baskets, light oak furniture, and fabrics reminiscent of fishing nets. Incorporating ocean-inspired hues through ceramics, artwork, or rugs can add a sense of tranquility without appearing overtly thematic. This approach resonates with those seeking to recreate a serene, holiday-like environment in their homes.
This design philosophy isn’t about filling your home with obvious seafaring symbols but rather capturing the essence of coastal serenity. By choosing elements that subtly reference beachside living, the maritime style creates an atmosphere of relaxation and openness. Think of shades that mirror the ocean and sky, textures that resemble driftwood and seagrass, and materials that evoke sandy shores. When executed with care, this trend can transport you to a place of calm and rejuvenation, offering a daily retreat even if you live far from the coast. It’s about bringing a piece of that serene, undisturbed world into the heart of your living space.
Animal Print
In the early 2020s, wavy designs dominated decor trends, with squiggly mirrors, abstract candles, and quirky prints becoming popular, especially among Gen Z, influenced by Scandinavian influencers like Gustaf Westman. However, by 2025, there’s a noticeable shift towards decor inspired by nature, moving away from synthetic and playful shapes. Chloe Barrow from Laura James anticipates a growing trend favoring organic textures and patterns that evoke a sense of groundedness and a connection to the environment. Materials such as raw stone or ceramic, with fluid and natural forms, are expected to replace the abstract and whimsical shapes seen in previous years. This shift aims to create a more harmonious and enduring design aesthetic that blends seamlessly with various styles.
This change is not merely about preference; it’s about resonance. While initially captivating, overly wavy and synthetic shapes can quickly become tiresome and feel out of place. The new design ethos embraces materials that recall the quiet strength of the natural world. These organic forms bring peace and contribute to a home environment that feels grounded and timeless. By replacing wavy decor with elements that mimic nature’s gentle curves and textures, homeowners can create spaces that are both relaxing and resilient, standing strong against fleeting trends.
