As Earth Day 2025 approaches, a noticeable shift in interior design trends is taking place across India, particularly in urban areas like Pune, Jaipur, and Bangalore. This change reflects a growing desire among consumers to embrace sustainable practices and a more personal touch in their homes, moving away from mass-produced items towards unique, handcrafted, and eco-friendly alternatives.
In early 2025, a young couple in Pune renovated their 2BHK flat, opting for hand-restored teakwood furniture from Chor Bazaar instead of mass-manufactured pieces. They added bamboo blinds and diffused lemongrass through beeswax to scent their home. "It just felt more like us," said boutique owner Gayatri Sahukar, whose design choices symbolize a broader trend in how Indians are redefining luxury, identity, and responsibility.
On Earth Day 2025, experts gathered to discuss the latest trends in green interiors, highlighting the concept of biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection between indoor spaces and the natural world. Anuradha Aggarwal, a luxury interior designer and founder of Studio Olives Cre., noted that using natural materials such as bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, and recycled metals brings warmth and authenticity to modern interiors. "Natural materials not only enhance aesthetics but also promote sustainability," she explained.
One of the emerging trends is sustainable aroma decor, which focuses on creating a healthy environment through scent. Ridhima Kansal, Director at Rosemoore, emphasized that sustainable aroma decor is not just a trend but a movement towards achieving spaces that respect both human health and the environment. This involves using hand-poured soy wax, essential oil mists, and refillable cullet-glass vessels, transforming scent into a functional statement of personal values.
Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO of Saraf Furniture, echoed the sentiment, advising consumers to "buy less, choose well." In 2025, Indian consumers are increasingly embracing modular multifunctional furniture, such as sofas with built-in storage or tables that can be expanded for guests. These choices not only reduce deforestation and landfill waste but also support indigenous craftsmanship.
Vintage and repurposed furniture is also gaining popularity. Ambereen Gupta, founder of Casa Amber, shared her passion for incorporating vintage pieces into her home. "One person’s past is a timeless piece," she said, showcasing a 50-year-old almirah with eco-safe paint and a jute rug handmade in Gujarat. This trend highlights a conscious reclamation of memory, sustainability, and beauty.
Handcrafted furnishings are becoming a hallmark of sustainable homes. Gupta remarked, "Supporting local artisans is more than a trend; it brings authenticity and soul to interiors." Consumers are now more inclined to choose unique items, such as handwoven curtains or vintage chairs, as a way to connect with their cultural heritage while contributing to local economies and reducing import-related emissions.
This Earth Day is not merely a reflection of trends but a snapshot of a significant value shift. The focus has moved from viewing sustainability as a moral obligation to embracing it as a marker of taste. The shift from factory-finished to hand-finished items signifies a deeper cultural transformation, where owning fewer, meaningful pieces is preferred over accumulating more.
Meanwhile, the whimsical charm of strawberry-themed decor is also making waves in 2025. As cottagecore aesthetics continue to flourish, strawberries have emerged as the fruit of choice for summer decor, despite Pinterest's claim that cherries reign supreme this year. Joanna Gaines' Magnolia Summer 2025 collection prominently features strawberries, with items ranging from vintage-inspired still life paintings to playful strawberry-shaped decor.
Anthropologie, known for its unique and playful home decor, has embraced this trend, offering an array of charming strawberry-themed items. From hand-painted stoneware designed for storing and rinsing berries to delicate candle holders, the collection captures the essence of summer nostalgia. The vibrant and cheerful designs are perfect for those looking to add a touch of whimsy to their homes.
For those who prefer a subtler approach, the collection includes a strawberry vine spray, ideal for styling vases with faux flowers. The appeal of strawberry decor lies in its ability to evoke feelings of joy and warmth, making it an ideal choice for seasonal decorating.
As the year progresses, other decor trends are emerging alongside the strawberry craze. Dulux colour expert Palesa Ramaisa has introduced the Lush palette, inspired by the natural beauty of gardens and forests. This soothing palette aims to create a comforting atmosphere in homes, connecting residents with nature.
The trend of creating spa-like bedrooms using neutral color schemes, quality linens, candles, and indoor plants is gaining traction. This minimalist approach emphasizes functionality and simplicity, allowing for a serene retreat from daily life.
Additionally, earthy tones, including burnt orange, are making a comeback. Designers Fanny and Yannick Gicquel describe the color orange as synonymous with good communication and energy, making it a vibrant choice for home decor.
Cerise, a vivid and cheerful color, is also trending, symbolizing happiness and glamour. This lively hue is expected to bring a playful touch to furniture and decor, appealing to those seeking to infuse their spaces with a sense of joy.
As we celebrate Earth Day 2025, it’s clear that the trends in home decor are not just about aesthetics; they reflect a deeper understanding of sustainability, community, and personal expression. From biophilic designs to whimsical strawberry accents, the choices consumers make today are shaping the future of interior design.
