The interior design world is buzzing with excitement over the characterful styles set to dominate home decor trends for 2025. Experts note a significant swing toward eclectic decorating, as designers have increasingly looked to the past to inspire their creations. At the heart of this year's transformations is the desire to create warm, inviting homes filled with personality.
One classic material leading the charge is wood, with its ability to add depth and texture to various environments. From furniture to structural surfaces, the question arises: which woods will reign supreme as we move toward 2025? Designers are excited about predicting and utilizing specific types of wood, particularly white oak, and there’s good reason for it.
Part of what is termed the modern organic trend, pale woods like white oak offer calming aesthetics alongside warmth. David Montalba, founding principal of Montalba Architects, states, "If I had to choose one [wood type], it’d be white oak, which is lighter in tone and reflects natural light, bringing subtle warmth and calm to any home." He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right materials not just for their appearance, but also their functionality and energy within the space.
Alongside Montalba, Austin DePree, Co-Founder of Northworks, praises white oak for its durability and classic appeal. He mentions, "Our clients depend on the durability of the white oak during their everyday lives." DePree notes their innovative use of finishes to deepen the wood’s natural color, enhancing the cozy, grounded vibe they aim for.
But the year 2025 isn't just about sticking to one wood style. Designers are also embracing the technique of mixing and matching various wood finishes to create bespoke spaces rich with layers of texture. David Montalba adds, "We tend to use wood types in different finishes, from white oak to raw architectural grade Douglas Fir." He reflects on recent projects, like one coastal home where contrasting wood finishes were chosen to harmonize indoor and outdoor experiences. This approach not only adds interest but also elevates the overall design experience.
On another note, mahogany and walnut also promise to find their way back as warm accent pieces. Jacu Strauss, Designer and Creative Director of Lore Group, highlights the elegance of antique brown woods, saying, "Antique brown wood furniture... can be beautiful statement pieces against neutral backdrops." These rich woods provide important dimension and depth to spaces lacking vibrancy, and can be seamlessly integrated with more modern decor.
Turning toward color, 2025 is set to embrace some bold shades. One of the standout colors is oxblood, which has gained traction following its exposure on runway shows from renowned brands like Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. According to the 1stDibs Designer Trends survey, designer interest in oxblood has surged from 12 percent up to 20 percent as we approach the new year. The color's luxurious depth sets it apart from other reds, enhancing the elegance of any room it graces.
Retailers are tapping this trend, launching statement pieces in oxblood—everything from ottomans at West Elm to desk accessories at Leatherology. Designers suggest this color works beautifully not just for walls, but also for furnishings. It is noted to provide any space with sophistication, whether placed as accents or as the color palette's primary tone.
Color and playfulness aren’t stopping at paint and large furniture, though. The trend of colorful glassware is also anticipated to extend through 2025. IKEA has launched the JÄRLEK collection, showcasing cheerful, brightly colored glass pieces and accessories—from glasses to vases—celebrated for their ability to add joy to any occasion. This collection reflects the rising trend of dopamine decor, where bright colors swap dreary vibes for more uplifting atmospheres.
Jess Self, Brand Development Manager at HESTIA® by Widdop & Co., describes how the versatility of colored glassware appeals to many. She explains, "Coloured glassware is trending because it offers an accessible way to incorporate trending colours like Mocha Mouse and Dulux’s Colour of the Year, 'True Joy,'..." Her sentiment supports the view of colored glassware serving both functional and decorative purposes, enhancing dining tables, bar carts, or simply standing out as elegant display items.
With the blend of these wood types, textures, and colors, the 2025 home decor scene promises to be vibrant and filled with possibilities. This year stands as testimony to the enduring love for wood, the embrace of bespoke design approaches, and the celebration of colors—homeowners can look forward to integrating these elements to create personalized, character-rich spaces.