In the ever-evolving world of home design, 2025 has already proven to be a year of bold statements, nostalgic revivals, and a renewed focus on both comfort and creativity. Across the United States, from the sun-drenched patios of Miami’s Star Island to the bustling showrooms of the Salt Lake Parade of Homes, designers, homeowners, and celebrities alike are reimagining what it means to create a truly timeless space.
One of the most striking voices in this movement is that of a Gen Z interior designer whose approach melds practicality with panache. According to a recent feature updated on August 8, 2025, this designer champions the use of color—think dark greens, lively blues, and cheerful pinks—as a transformative tool that doesn’t break the bank. "Incorporating colors is one of the least expensive and most impactful tools for designing your space," the designer explains, suggesting that starting with neutral-colored large furniture and layering in bright, easily swappable accents like pillows, throws, and lamps can keep a room feeling fresh without constant overhauls.
But it’s not just about the hues. The Gen Z ethos leans heavily on the past, particularly in the embrace of secondhand furniture. Scouring Facebook Marketplace, estate sales, and furniture exchange sites for hidden gems has become a rite of passage for young homeowners and renters. The designer encourages buyers to "examine the quality and design, and consider the potential" of each piece, noting that a little DIY—like stripping lacquer or adding a coat of paint—can turn a dated dresser into a centerpiece. This preference for the unique and the storied stands in stark contrast to the mass-produced, often short-lived furniture that fills so many big-box stores. "Many mass-produced pieces are not made to last," the designer warns, citing sagging sofas and stained tables as common pitfalls.
Lighting, too, has stepped into the limelight—literally. Oversized chandeliers, sweeping floor lamps, and dramatic bathroom backlighting are no longer reserved for the pages of glossy magazines. "Lighting is quite literally another form of art, so be bold," the designer urges, highlighting how varied lighting can instantly transform a space. Pot lights, or recessed ceiling fixtures, however, are on the outs. The designer confesses, "Walking into a room with pot lights makes me feel tense," advocating instead for a mix of table lamps, cabinet backlighting, and art spotlights to create warmth and depth.
Patterns are making a playful comeback as well, with the checkered motif leading the charge. Whether it’s a carpet, pillow, or entryway floor, the designer argues that "the checkered pattern is timeless—not only because it has a long history on game boards, but also because there can be so much variation in the actual pattern." Unconventional color combos and wavy designs keep this classic fresh, offering an "elevated stripe" that’s both cheerful and sophisticated. By contrast, animal prints are being shown the door. "I think animal print can often make your space look tacky," the designer admits, suggesting checkers as a more inviting alternative.
Meanwhile, on the sunlit shores of Miami Beach, the Mediterranean design aesthetic is enjoying a renaissance. Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez’s Star Island home, immortalized in a 2004 photo of J.Lo lounging poolside, remains a benchmark for timeless outdoor luxury. The earthy limestone patio, rounded Italian-style fountain, and subtle blue tiling are as chic today as they were two decades ago. According to Homes & Gardens, Mediterranean backyard design has seen a staggering 190% surge in Google searches this summer, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Grace Thornton, a landscape design expert at Marshalls Gardens, attributes this trend to a universal desire for escapism. "We’ve all wanted to bottle that feeling you get from relaxing outside on a warm summer's evening whilst abroad," she says. The Mediterranean look, she notes, is all about creating a personal retreat—lush planters, aromatic herb gardens, and oversized, colorful ceramics that channel the vibrancy of coastal towns. Jodi Peterman of Elizabeth Erin Designs adds, "Build an aromatic herb garden right next to your pool, filled with Mediterranean staples like rosemary, thyme, and oregano... it also brings the scents of the Mediterranean to your poolside." She also recommends using bold ceramics for an extra pop of color and suggests adding stone fire bowls to balance the elements of fire and water—an effect that’s both luxurious and inviting.
Indoors, the 2025 Salt Lake Parade of Homes offers a masterclass in blending beauty, function, and fun. As reported by KSL.com, this year’s show-stopping homes are not just for the ultra-wealthy; they’re a source of inspiration for anyone dreaming of a more stylish, functional living space. One of the most prominent trends is upgraded multigenerational living. Gone are the days of cramped basement apartments—today’s homes feature private lofts, spacious accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with separate entrances, and flexible layouts that make sharing space feel more like a boutique hotel experience. The Elysium at Gracey Lane, for example, boasts a one-bedroom loft above the garage and a 1,500 square foot basement ADU with two bedrooms and a full kitchen.
Wellness is another buzzword, with spa-worthy features like infrared saunas, cold plunge pools, and steam showers now considered must-haves. Owner’s suites are being designed to rival five-star resorts, offering homeowners a sanctuary for self-care and relaxation. The "Modern Organic" style also takes center stage, blending clean lines, earthy tones, and natural materials such as wood, linen, cotton, and raw stone. According to The Spruce, this look "values quality over quantity but still embraces warmth and nature," marrying minimalist sensibilities with a welcoming vibe.
Recreation spaces are bigger and bolder than ever. Home movie theaters, gyms, and even indoor basketball or pickleball courts are no longer just pipe dreams. In Utah, where basketball is almost a religion, indoor courts have become a hallmark of luxury homes, allowing residents to perfect their shot or swing year-round. And while farmhouse style still has its devotees, designers are putting a modern spin on it—think rugged textures, mixed wood tones, and warm metals paired with classic charm.
Since its inception in 1946, the Salt Lake Parade of Homes has inspired millions to build, remodel, or simply dream bigger. As the 2025 event runs from August 1-16, attendees are once again reminded that even the smallest tweak—a new lamp, a splash of color, a thrifted chair—can elevate a home from ordinary to extraordinary.
Whether you’re channeling Mediterranean elegance, embracing Gen Z’s playful approach, or drawing inspiration from the latest Parade of Homes, one thing is clear: the most enduring trends are those that invite comfort, creativity, and a touch of personal flair. In a world where design fads come and go, these timeless ideas prove that true style is always in season.
