With 2025 approaching, interior design is undergoing significant transformations inspired by nostalgia, practicality, and sustainability. Recent trends highlighted by Houzz and industry insiders reveal how homeowners are shifting their focus from stark minimalism to inviting spaces rich with character and warmth.
According to Houzz expert Mitchel Parker, many homeowners are rethinking their living environments to include 'quiet places'—areas dedicated to relaxation and reflection. "That’s why it’s important to have a space that's void of activity—a quiet place to relax, nap, read a book, or just sit silently," he explains. Essentials like cushy sofas placed near windows or comfortable outdoor seating are becoming staples for those wanting to create serene retreats within their homes.
Among the standout trends is the surge of kitchens redesigned to facilitate entertainment. Parker notes, "An extra-long island with both counter seating and face-to-face dining is the perfect recipe." This setup is increasingly popular on Houzz, and many award-winning designs feature integrated beverage stations or home bars, enabling guests to help themselves without interrupting cooking activities.
The powder room has also emerged as a stage for bold design choices. "Taking a bold design leap will create an intimate little moment of surprise," Parker says, recommending dramatic wallpaper paired with stunning vanities for those wanting to wow their guests.
Given the rise of remote work, inviting home office spaces remain indispensable. Parker advises homeowners to invest in ergonomic furniture and smart storage solutions: "Designers on Houzz recommend equipping these spaces with built-in storage, comfy furniture, and stylish colors to create inviting atmospheres for tackling work."
Shifting focus to broader trends, the interior design community sees nostalgia playing out vividly, especially as designers like Molly Woodward-Moor from Stone Superstore point out. "There’s been a noticeable shift back toward the bold, nostalgic charm of past eras," she says. This emphasizes the eclectic, retro styles of the ‘80s and ‘90s, mixing and matching vibrant colors with vintage aesthetics.
The resurgence of 'grandmacore' is also on the rise, described as celebrating traditional comfort with floral designs and cosiness reminiscent of grandparental homes. Woodward-Moor explains, "The return of bold, clashing colors, retro designs, and quirky elements is about creating character," emphasizing how these older styles can be reinterpreted to feel fresh and modern.
Meanwhile, sustainability has emerged as another central theme shaping home design. Zara O'Hare, another interior design expert, emphasizes this trend: "People are more thoughtful about where they source their furniture, focusing on quality materials and sustainability." Homeowners, weary of quick, disposable options, are leaning toward timeless pieces.
One notable move is the shift away from overly minimalist styles, such as the all-white look. O'Hare suggests, “People are now turning to richer, warmer color schemes, especially with the rise of mid-century modern designs.” This evolution includes preferences for classic and authentic materials over the contemporary coldness sometimes associated with modern design.
The exploration of material also extends to fireplaces, with nostalgic designs making their way back. "People are now looking for timeless styles and authentic materials," says Woodward-Moor, pointing to how modern stones and tiles present cleaner looks, moving away from the more cumbersome designs of past decades.
Clearly, the 2025 interior design trends represent more than just aesthetic choices. Embracing comfort, nostalgia, and renewable options shows an evolution toward spaces where homeowners can truly unwind, entertain, and thrive. With all these shifts underway, it’s evident the environment we design affects how we live and feel—and for 2025, the forecast looks both vibrant and inviting.