With a predicted one in three of us renovating our homes this new year and 48% of renovators looking to modernise their space, it’s clear staying on-trend is a focus when it comes to interior design.
Plus, with the housing market still in flux, it seems many of us are choosing to improve rather than move. There is a trend towards staying put and simply changing the things we don’t like about our current homes, rather than trying to move somewhere else.
Indeed, in the current climate, regular micro-renovations and interior décor changes are likely to be far more cost-effective than purchasing a new home that already has those features in place. As of August 2024, the average price of a home in England was a staggering £310,000 – a rise of £7,000 compared to 2023.
However, whether you’re planning a complete home renovation, or you’re looking to update a few key interiors pieces, it’s essential to make sure you’ll still love the changes in a few months’ time. There’s no point jumping on a interior design trend for it to go out of fashion next week, or giving your fitted bedroom a complete style overhaul only to realise you’ve selected an outdated design.
Luckily, Sophie Clemson, Interior Designer at The Living House and Lorraine McGill, Interior Stylist from Willow and Maine, are here to provide their expert opinions on which trends to avoid for 2025, ensuring your home doesn’t turn into a fashion-don’t.
1. Minimalist nature
We’re leaving the stripped-back look in 2024! This new year is the perfect time to embrace the eclectic look. “Decorative trims and finishes are set to be big this year, which I love!” Sophie says. “It’s the perfect way to get creative in your home and inject some of your personality into the space.
“Think wavy mirrors, striped table lamps, pleated fabric light shades and bobbin trims to name but a few. Pick a fun, colourful piece that speaks to you and run with it!”
2. Cool, icy tones
Ditch the cool, pared-back colour palettes and instead opt for warmer colours to create a welcoming, comforting space. “A warm, earthy colour palette is as popular as ever and I don’t see this changing any time soon,” Sophie comments.
Lorraine agrees, explaining: “Colour drenching is set to continue this new year, which will work beautifully with the 2025 colour palette to create a cosy, natural space. Along with the deep, tonal browns we’ve seen recently, a beautiful range of greens will also take centre stage.
“This focus on natural colours also lends itself to the continued focus on plants, both real and faux, to help a space feel more open and allow us to connect with the simplicity of nature.”
3. Fleecy fabrics
“Bouclé fabric furniture was a big hit throughout 2024,” says Lorraine. “But 2025 is set to bring a move away from this trend, with a focus on a wider range of fabrics. Look out for rich, textured fabrics in earthy, tonal colours.
“Patterns are also big news for 2025, in both fabrics and wallpaper. We will see a return to the extravagance of patterned items, helping a space to feel expensive and adding a real sense of confidence and excitement to your interiors.”
4. Demure colour theory
One-tone interiors are perfect for some, but they’re not the focus for the new year. Instead, we’re looking for pops of warm colour against our earthy tones, adding some extra energy and confidence to our homes. “I believe that people are becoming more daring when incorporating colour into their homes,” Sophie says.
“For example, red was a very popular colour throughout 2024 and I think this will carry through into this year. You can introduce subtle pops of red with a table lamp or vase, or – if you’re really into the red trend – you can go all out by incorporating red paint. This can be as simple as a contrasting red woodwork colour.”
5. Brand-new, cookie-cutter furniture
“Sustainability is so important in today’s climate,” Lorraine explains. “So, buying second-hand and vintage items, or investing in sustainably made items that will stand the test of time, is a strong trend for 2025.
“If you’re unsure where to go to find quality vintage furniture or home décor, try visiting your local antique shop or browsing home auctions online – you can find some real gems for great prices! Always check the sustainability credentials of a brand you’re thinking of buying a bespoke piece from to confirm they’re operating positively.”
6. Social media obsessions
Of course, we’ve all seen the TikTok and Instagram interior trends – but their fleeting nature often means it can be difficult to keep up. Both Sophie and Lorraine agree that it’s only worth investing in a trend if it speaks to your individual style.
“Social media trends are a great way to gather inspiration,” Sophie comments. “But your home should be filled with colours and pieces that you absolutely love – not just items that are ‘on-trend’. Trends come and go, so you should always prioritise your unique personality and style.”
Lorraine explains: “Only buy into social media trends if they suit your style. Individuality is so important when it comes to creating a space. It’s one of the reasons why I think bespoke furniture and cabinetry are here to stay, as this trend allows you to put your own stamp on your interiors and create a space that is unique to you.”
So, there you have it, the interior trends to avoid for 2025. Do you have any of these interior-design-don’ts in your home? Will you be redesigning your space to keep pace with the 2025 trends? Just remember to always prioritise your own style and make sure your space expresses your personality.
