As we enter 2025, we look forward to another year of innovation, creativity, and (spoiler alert) TONS of color! Whether it’s the resurgence of wood-paneled walls and game tables or the embrace of spa-like spaces, 2025 is all about self-expression. Here are 10 interior design trends poised to shape how we decorate and enjoy our homes this year.
Color, Color, and More Color!
Nothing is making a bigger splash than this year’s color influences. In fact, we spoke to 13 different Southern designers, and nearly all of them reported “color drenching” as a major current design influence.
“We will see a lot of color and pattern mixing in 2025,” explains Ciara Word, principal designer of Word Interiors in Birmingham. “Think color drenching a room (painting the walls, trim, and ceiling all the same color), mixing florals with geometrics, and incorporating fun furniture pieces in a space — maybe a colorful or printed chair or ottoman. All of these things together make a space feel like ‘yours’ and give it a personality of its own.”
So, what colors can we expect to see in the spotlight? Several designers shared their predictions:
“We still find ourselves in the rich, earthy zone with paint colors for 2025,” explains Brad Ramsey of Brad Ramsey Interiors in Nashville, TN. “Olive, ochre, eggplant, and burnt red tones are trending along with warm neutrals. Color drenching is still a great way to take these tones and create an all-over jewel box. I’m currently crushing on Sherwin Williams SW 2843 Roycroft Brass.”
“Jewel tones are making a strong comeback, adding vibrancy and sophistication to spaces,” adds Dallas interior designer Roz Murphy of Roz Murphy Design. “I predict that persimmon, midnight, sage green, and cinnamon rose will be among the most popular colors in the new year.”
Ariene Bethea, principal designer of Dressing Rooms Interiors Studio in Charlotte, NC, tells us, “Reds, purples, and greens will dominate in 2025, ranging from their richest, most saturated tones — like deep garnet, plum, and emerald — to softer, more muted shades such as blush, lavender, and sage. This versatile spectrum offers both bold impact and subtle sophistication.”
Amy Mobley of Memphis’s City Hill Design adds, “Color drenching makes a bold statement in home design, offering a dramatic and cohesive look by enveloping a space in a single rich hue. This [past] fall, we fell in love with the warmth of deep Bordeaux tones … paired with vibrant golden yellow accents, these colors create a striking yet balanced palette.”
Still loving your neutrals? Think warm brown tones, instead of gray.
“The ‘gray is out, brown is back in’ trend continues!” says Sara Ray of Nashville’s Sara Ray Interior Design. “From paint colors to fabrics to stained cabinetry, we can expect to see brown continue its huge comeback in 2025. Saturated but soothing rich colors will also be a big theme.”
Textured Walls
If you haven’t yet jumped on the adventurous wallpaper bandwagon, don’t be scared to try it! This year, you’ll see an even more significant surge in textured wall coverings.
“This goes hand-in-hand with the color-drenched walls,” says Shea Bryars of Shea Bryars Design in Birmingham, AL. “We are seeing a huge comeback in wallpaper — on walls, ceilings, backs of bookcases, in the pantry, powder room, laundry room … The use of wallpaper, paint, prints, patterns, textured fabrics, and layered rugs all come together to create a space that is so interesting.”
“Textured walls are definitely trending,” adds Brad Ramsey. “Whether wallpaper, wood paneling, or plaster finishes, we are craving the warmth and coziness that these elements bring into our homes and spaces.”
Ariene Bethea agrees that wood paneling is on the rise. “With the popularity of fluted accent walls and furniture, I anticipate a modern and more dynamic return of wood-paneled walls,” she tells us. “And I’m hopeful for the comeback of colorful, patterned, wall-to-wall carpeting — especially in bedrooms — to bring warmth and personality to spaces.”
Maximalism
Sometimes, more is more.
“Interior design is embracing bold expressions of individuality, moving away from minimalism toward a more maximalist approach, with an emphasis on curation over clutter,” says Beth Haley, principal designer at Beth Haley Design in Nashville.
In 2025, you can look forward to an upward trend of rooms that evoke emotion and energy. “Wall colors will be painted in warmer earth tones or covered in wallpaper that adds layers of texture and intricate patterns, elevating the room beyond its basic function,” Beth says.
An extension of the previous trends of color and texture, maximalism celebrates putting ALL of your favorite elements in the forefront — but in a carefully curated way.
Statement Tiling
Tile isn’t just for bathroom floors … get ready for some eye-catching colors and styles on everything from entryways to mudrooms and even home bars.
“I design a lot of kitchens and baths, and I am excited about the use of color in tile,” says Shea Bryars. “Your showers and kitchen backsplashes are a fun place to splurge and create a unique moment … white marble is classic and will always be ‘in style,’ but combining it with statement tile is on the rise. And there are so many to choose from. The natural textures and organic feel of handmade tile with sparks of color can really change your space and make it memorable.”
Hidden Technology
High-tech influence is in, says Elizabeth Gullett, principal designer at Elizabeth Gullett Interiors in Memphis, TN. “From cutting-edge smart lighting systems, hidden speakers, and safes to French coffee-shop quality coffee at the push of a button in your kitchen, high-tech options now enhance not only the functionality but the convenience and aesthetic of everyday life,” she tells us.
She also praises the subtlety of this trend. “Hidden technology such as smart mirrors, lighting systems that change with the time of day, voice-controlled assistants, and even furniture with built-in charging stations will be integrated seamlessly.”
Beth Haley agrees, adding, “Functionality is front and center, with cabinetry designs that go beyond simple storage, offering smart, space-saving solutions, integrated appliances, and modular elements that can be customized to suit the specific needs of the homeowner.”
Game Tables
Whether you’re a Scrabble enthusiast or simply love a competitive round of chess now and again, game tables are making an appearance in home designs everywhere. “We will start to see more game tables,” says Ciara Word. “Mahjong, anyone? We have more and more clients wanting to incorporate a game table in their space as the game takes the country by storm.” Rumor has it that Ciara is even planning to add a game nook in the formal living room at her own home!
Old-World Influence
History has always influenced interior design, and this year is no exception. “We will see more of an Old-World influence on design,” says interior designer Caylee Stefanek with Logos Interiors in Birmingham. “With unlimited access to places we would not otherwise be exposed to due to social media, American clients are interested in something broader, time-worn, and interesting.”
She adds, “Construction materials like antique lumber, antique brick, and custom doors, windows, and shutters that remind us of architectural sensibilities abroad.”
Beth Haley agrees. “One key trend for 2025 is the fusion of past and present, with many interior designs leaning into the character and charm of older design eras while integrating innovative, modern elements,” she tells us.
“Expect to see details like intricate ceiling designs — through molding, paint, or statement light fixtures — that elevate the vertical space and add architectural interest. Crossing different design styles will be another hallmark, with traditional, mid-century, and contemporary pieces blending seamlessly to create cohesive yet dynamic interiors.”
In fact, this is the trend Jamie Ivey of Ivey Design Group in Richmond, VA, is most looking forward to. “Incorporating vintage furniture into clean, modern spaces. And vice versa, incorporating modern European-style furniture into classical architecture. I love the yin and yang of it all!”
Warm Wood Tones and Natural Materials
Sustainability and biophilia are still impacting design in a big way, including wood grains and tones. “Since brown is making a comeback, we’re going to start to see medium-toned wood become the popular stain of choice for interiors in 2025,” says Jamie Ivey. “I still love a nice natural white oak stain, but there is something so warm and inviting about making the stain a bit darker, especially in cozier rooms like family rooms and kitchens.”
“The ongoing emphasis on biophilic design makes these elements crucial for creating inviting, calming spaces that bridge the indoors and outdoors,” says Justin Orton, owner and principal designer at Of Origin Design Studios in Nashville.
Handcrafted Objects & Personal Mementos
Artisanal pieces offer dynamic design elements that can really highlight your personality. “Handcrafted items will shine as focal points this year, such as a unique artisanal coffee table in a modern living room or a handwoven tapestry in a minimalist bedroom,” says Justin Orton. “These pieces bring warmth, character, and a sense of history to interiors. They stand out because they make spaces feel personal and grounded, connecting us to the artistry and craftsmanship behind them.”
“Homeowners are coming to us with art collections they want to incorporate into the design,” adds Kierstin Casella, the design director at Of Origin. “They’re requesting meaningful pieces — mementos they’ve picked up while traveling or reupholstered family heirlooms or handmade pottery over a mass-produced vase.”
Tranquil Spaces + Quiet Luxury
For some, this is a year for maximalism. For others, the focus will be on creating airy, spa-like spaces in their own homes.
“We are seeing a profound movement toward well-being among our clients,” says Kierstin Casella. “Not only spa-like bathrooms with steam showers and saunas but tranquil spaces dedicated to fitness and yoga, cozy rooms with comfortable lounge furniture for slowing down and curling up with a book.”
“We’re discovering how our clients truly live and use their spaces,” Kierstin continues. “Often, this means forgoing an extra guest room or separate dining room to allow for a space dedicated to wellness. It’s thinking about what kind of rooms will actually be used and enjoyed rather than simply what a floor plan typically dictates. We’re taking inventory of what a client collects and loves, doing some editing, and allowing special pieces to inspire the interiors.”
If you’re curious about the last few years of interior design trends, check out what was trending in 2023 and 2024!
**********
Find more decor inspiration in our Interior Design Trends archives.