In a vibrant shift towards bold aesthetics, 2025 has ushered in a remarkable trend in interior design known as "colour drenching," which embraces the use of saturated hues across entire spaces. Gone are the days of bland beige and safe neutrals; this maximalist decor movement is all about making a statement with color, transforming not just the appearance of homes but also the moods of those who inhabit them.
According to an article published on April 28, 2025, by The Sun, colour drenching is gaining momentum as a response to the pandemic-induced focus on home environments. Lucy Sutherland, director of insights and trends at Temple & Webster, explains that this trend is about creating interiors that evoke happiness and energy. "We know through colour psychology that colour impacts mood," she states, emphasizing that colour drenching is about infusing joy into our lives.
But what exactly is colour drenching? Unlike mere pops of color brought in through accessories like cushions or candles, colour drenching involves a full commitment to saturation, with entire rooms or homes being enveloped in bold hues. Roger Wei, head of design and product development at Temple & Webster, notes that colour drenching doesn’t necessarily mean bright colors; it can also include minimalist spaces with clean lines and little clutter.
The trend can be traced back to the rise of dopamine decor during the COVID-19 pandemic, where bright colors replaced the previously dominant beige-on-beige minimalism. Sutherland points out that as people spent more time at home, their attention shifted from personal fashion to their living environments, adapting the principles of dopamine dressing to their interiors.
Clinical psychologist Donna Stambulich adds another layer to this trend, asserting that the colors and objects we surround ourselves with are powerful tools for emotional regulation and self-expression. "Whether it’s a vibrant piece of art that ignites creativity or a soothing blue wall that promotes relaxation, our homes can be active participants in our mental health journey," she explains.
So how can homeowners embrace colour drenching? Sutherland suggests starting with the spaces where people spend the most time. For example, in a kitchen, adding cozy items like a beautiful runner or new counter stools can enhance the atmosphere. Small decor items, such as candles or new towels, can also make a significant difference, as can thoughtful lighting choices.
In addition to colour drenching, Etsy has released its trend predictions for the Spring/Summer 2025 season, highlighting a shift towards personality-driven aesthetics in home decor. Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy's trend expert, emphasizes that this season is about embracing creativity in an intentional and unapologetic manner. As trends like cottagecore and gardencore gain popularity, the focus is on finding an aesthetic that resonates with individual tastes.
Meanwhile, celebrity architect Hugh Wallace is making headlines with his personal project: creating his dream home with his husband, Martin Corbett. According to an article from RSVP Home, the couple purchased a derelict end-of-terrace house from the 1890s during the lockdown and is now undergoing extensive renovations. Wallace has entrusted most of the interior decisions to Corbett, praising his husband’s “great taste” and “eye for beautiful things.”
Wallace’s vision for their home includes crisp, modern designs featuring classic Italian furniture and a collection of artwork that will provide color. He has expressed his disdain for certain trends, such as slat walling and the overuse of grey, indicating a preference for timeless elements that enhance rather than detract from the view.
As the design world evolves, the 20th anniversary of the biennial Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens in Lake Forest, Illinois, showcases a blend of architectural history and contemporary design. Opened for tours on April 26, 2025, this year’s showhouse features Pembroke Lodge, a Georgian-style limestone mansion built in 1895 by architect Henry Ives Cobb. The event benefits the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago and showcases nearly 50 transformed spaces, highlighting the latest design trends.
One of the standout trends at the showhouse is the use of curvy furniture and design elements. From wave-like headboards to rounded sofas, the playful curves soften the sharp lines typically found in modern design. Additionally, tree-inspired wallpaper and murals bring the outdoors in, creating a sense of serenity and connection to nature.
Green, often regarded as nature’s neutral, remains a popular choice in many of the showhouse’s rooms, providing a refreshing backdrop that enhances natural light. The main dining room features chartreuse accents against rich chocolate-brown plaster walls, while the breakfast room showcases shades of mint and green apple, offering a cheerful atmosphere.
As the Lake Forest Showhouse remains open through May 25, 2025, it provides an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in these trends and shop for the showcased furniture and decor. The intersection of history and modern design at the showhouse, combined with the personal stories behind each home renovation, illustrates how the world of interior design is evolving to prioritize individuality and emotional well-being.
Whether through colour drenching, personality-driven trends, or personal projects like Wallace’s, the essence of home design in 2025 is about making spaces that reflect who we are and how we want to feel. As we embrace these changes, it’s clear that the future of interior design is bright, bold, and beautifully personal.
