2025’s Most Unexpected Trend Was Once Reserved for Restaurant Kitchens (Plus 11 More Expert Predictions)
Words by Laura DahlgrenPhotography by William Jess Laird; Design by Mike Moser Studio
A new year opens the door to endless possibilities.
Cozy, cottages, quiet luxury, and the unexpected red theory may have ruled our feeds in 2024—along with vibrant shades like cornflower blue and pistachio—but Experts are already looking ahead.
While some design trends are here to stay—Molly Kidd and Lucia Bartholomew of Electric Bowery predict that 2025 will continue to see a dominance of spaces drenched in rich shades—others on the horizon are anything but expected.
From the ’80s bathroom staple to the industrial kitchen essential having a moment, we asked our Experts to give us the inside scoop into their top design trend predictions for 2025.
Photography by Felix Forest; Design by Handelsmann + Khaw
(Stainless) Steel Yourself
Melissa Lee of Bespoke Only predicts a comeback of a certain early-2000s kitchen star. “I have been enjoying the resurgence of stainless steel as of late,” she says. This industrial material once reserved for appliances and restaurant-grade workspaces is being reintroduced in a refined, jewelry-like fashion. “A brushed finish transforms the cool metal with a warmer hand feel.”
Closed-Floorplan Policy
Say goodbye to the days of tearing down walls in favor of connected living spaces. “I’ve been designing fewer open-floorplan concepts to create more distinct, intimate rooms,” says Molly. “It’s a nod to historic architecture that can be timeless if done well. Defined spaces allow for distinct identities and personalized design elements like wallpaper and paint.”
Photography by Tessa Neustadt; Design by Ome Dezin
Molding Moments
Joelle Kutner of Ome Dezin predicts a wave of innovative baseboard ideas in 2025: “It’s all about infusing color and material variations as accents to your design choices rather than a functional piece of wood to cover a seam.”
Color Drenching
Molly also forecasts that all-white spaces will bow down in favor of rooms painted top-to-bottom in dramatic shades. “Drenching spaces in an intentional, monochromatic hue allows for a more opulent space,” says Molly. “Color has infiltrated the neutral scene and just the walls aren't enough. This means painting the ceiling, trim, doors, and windows all the same color—the moodier the better!”
Photography by Tim Lenz; Design by Hadley Wiggins
Do the Time Warp
We may be looking to the year ahead, but Alfredo Paredes is keeping one eye on the past. “Antiques add patina to a room,” he explains. “Vintage elements introduce texture, character, and history to a room. They add a visual richness and evoke nostalgia to create interiors that feel grounded and personal.”
All in the Details
Lucia also predicts that 2025 is the year of transforming everyday features into pieces that pack a personality-filled punch, “Functional elements like hardware and storage solutions are being reimagined to go beyond utility, adding style and flair to interiors,” she says.
Visual Meditation
To offer a welcome respite from the chaos of everyday life, Joelle predicts we see a return of spaces that embrace simplicity. “Next year will bring an emphasis on rooms that feel calming,” she muses. “Sticking to a minimal material and color palette can help achieve this. It doesn’t mean boring, it just means less layering so your brain and eyes can rest.”
’80s Throwback
Melissa is on a mission to remove the bad ’80s stigma from mosaic tiles. “I think they are cool and timeless,” she exclaims. “I’m trying to bring them back in tonal palettes, subtly providing a pared-back look full of texture and nuances. Modern bathhouses are my spirit animal.”
Photography by Tim Lenz; Design by Molly Kidd Studio
Family-Friendly Fabrics
Alfredo refuses to settle for anything less than unique finds that favor functionality. “Performance and aesthetics are given equal weight, thanks to materials that eliminate the need for compromise,” he explains. “Modern bouclé retains its texture over time, while performance linen replicates the natural elegance of traditional linen while resisting spills and wear, offering beauty and durability in equal measure.”
Bold Strokes
Cayley Lambur of Electric Bowery predicts that bright hues and touches of pattern will continue to rule the year ahead. “Homes are evolving into reflections of individual style, and bold finishes are taking center stage,” she says. ‘It’s all about embracing uniqueness, allowing spaces to become authentic expressions of character.”
Photography by Tim Lenz; Design by Josh Greene Design
Not so Fine Art
Shopping for art can stump even the most seasoned design aficionado. Joelle predicts that in 2025, works sourced from unexpected retailers will be on walls everywhere. “Found art at flea markets is a first stop for us when styling a home,” she muses. “It’s usually lower investment but you can find something that instantly makes you feel something.”
Soulful Spaces
Cozy interiors aren’t going anywhere according to Alfredo. “Designing rooms that are filled with warmth and layered textures creates an inviting sense of personality,” he says. “These spaces feel welcoming and lived-in, offering a visual representation of the home’s character and its residents’ stories.”