The field of interior design is an ever-changing quilt of beauty, function, and design ideas. Moving into 2025, we are seeing another evolution of trends that invoke a simplified approach to our changing values: a deeper relationship with nature, a focus on well-being, and a graceful combination of the ancient and the modern. For future interior designers, understanding these trends is important, not only because it will keep them current, but more importantly, because it anchors the conversation within modern paradigms of living.
The upcoming parts will examine the key trends defining what 2025 looks like in terms of interior design, managers, and design thinking that comes with trained professional practice of study.
1. Sustainability and Biophilia as Design Systems
Sustainability is no longer a fad option; it is a primary consideration. Moving into 2025, sustainability infers Biophilic Design as a consideration of embedding natural systems in built spaces that increase our well-being.
What does this mean: Expect to see and be around an abundance of indoor plants, better opportunities for natural light, and utilise raw organic materials like reclaimed wood, cork, bamboo, and natural stone. Biophilic design seeks to promote seamless interactions and the appeal of sensory experiences that create a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Designer’s Role: A professional designer should possess an understanding of sourcing of eco-friendly materials, non-toxic finishes, and passive design strategies (e.g., optimising natural light and wind for ventilation) to design healthy, sustainable sanctuaries.
2. Comfort as Luxury: Curved Forms and Textures.
Instead of sharp, rigid lines, curves including plush, organic shapes are on the uptick and creating an overall welcoming aesthetic.
What does it mean: Sofas with rounded corners and edges; arched doorways; and round tables are trending. Casual, comfortable furniture, including plush, depth-seated pieces, prioritises comfort over style.
The Designer’s Role: Successful space planning with non-linear elements requires designers to have a keen awareness of form and flow. Designers will need to layer textures (including soft fabric, such as thick wool and chenille) in combination with tactile elements (think plaster and wood panel) in order to create depth and d rich sensory experience.
3. Bold Display: Colour Drenching and the Nuance of Maximalism
Earthy neutrals are still popular for the grounding elements, but 2025 is leaning toward bold self-expression through colour and pattern.
What it means: Colour Drenching – selecting and painting wall surfaces, trim and ceilings in different variations of a specific rich colour (think jewel tones or deep forest green colours) creates powerful, enveloping spaces. A new trend in Minimal Maximalism allows for a neutral colour palette accented infrequently with pops of colour through artwork, eclectic finds and unique or statement lighting.
The Designer’s Role: Knowledge of colour theory and mixing patterns is a valuable skill. Designers should be familiar with utilising bold colours to affect space and mood, all the while containing the exuberance to a harmonious balance and result that feels stimulating in a visually appealing way, instead of overwhelming.
4. Smart Home Gets Discreet: Integration of Technology
In 2025, technology is internalised less as a thing with which we interact, but systematised and integrated into our lives, elevating our life experience.
What it all means: The Discreet Tech is key. Consider integrated charging stations, voice-activated smart home systems, automated climate controls that become part of the decor. Function is paramount to the design, but ideally invisible.
The Designer’s Role: This calls for proficiency in smart home systems design, electrical plans, working with technology experts to ensure that the high-tech elements enhance rather than distract from the overall design vision.
5. Multifunctionality and Wellness Spaces
As a result of the hybrid work movement, and a raising awareness of mental health ramifications, homes are becoming even more flexible and restorative.
What does it mean: The spaces are becoming multifunctional spaces that often require flexible furniture and subtle zoning (through a room divider or layered lighting) to support a balance of work, rest, and socialising. Purpose-built wellness spaces within the home, either a tiny nook for meditation or a comprehensive gym, are also spaces that people now want.
The Designer’s Role: It is paramount that you learn to design flexible layout options and curate experiences for well-being that are either emotional, physical or both. This is where a robust curriculum can provide the underpinnings of how to address complex, contemporary briefs from a client.
You want to be well-versed in the technical and artistic aspects behind the emergence of these new styles—from eco-friendly materials to smart space planning and more—then it’s time to consider enrolling in a course of study in Interior Design. If you’re looking to turn your passion into a profession, consider exploring the specialised programs offered at NIF Global Saltlake, where you can gain the expertise needed to shape the spaces of tomorrow.