If you could sum up the design themes for the coming year in three words, they might be cozy, functional, and personal. People are spending more time in their homes than ever. As remote work becomes more prevalent and community gathering places grow scarcer, homeowners are prioritizing comfort and individuality. This shift has moved us away from impractical, all-white minimalist aesthetics and toward “lived-in” looks. If you’re looking to refresh a space this year, here’s a breakdown of the 2025 trends worth trying, the ones to approach cautiously, and the ones that are firmly in the rearview mirror.

Trends to Try

Playing with Textures and Patterns

This year is all about embracing texture. Here are a few standout ideas:

• Wood Drenching: Think modern wood paneling or even wood-washed walls, where natural grains bring warmth and depth to any space. This can be achieved through hardwood floors, accent walls, or wooden ceilings.
• Board-Form Concrete: This texture combines industrial and organic elements. Use it in fireplaces, feature walls, or outdoor spaces to add an architectural edge without feeling too cold.
• Bold Fabrics: Velvet is having a moment. Whether it’s curtains, furniture, or wall hangings, velvet’s soft texture and jewel tones add a touch of luxury to a room.
• Wallpaper Resurgence: Wallpaper is back, but not the bland florals of the past. Think bold, geometric prints or modern takes on botanical designs. Wallpaper works well as an accent wall or in smaller spaces like powder rooms.

One of the best things about these trends is that you don’t have to overhaul your entire home. Pick one that resonates with you and let it shine in a single room or corner. Thoughtfully incorporated, these elements create a timeless feel.

Color Drenching

Color drenching is a technique that involves using the same hue on walls, ceilings, and trim. This cohesive approach makes small spaces feel larger and creates a sense of unity. It’s been gaining traction for a few years, and it’s not going anywhere in 2025.

If you’re trying this look, consider this year’s trending paint colors:

• Dark earthy colors: Chocolate brown, soft charcoal and dark green.
• Calming blue-green hues: from soft to deep think aqua, sage, teal
• Red: is having a moment, we like it in pops of color but for color drenching we recommend a terra-cotta shade over a bold or brick red.
• Moody Jewel Tones: Plum, chestnut, sapphire, and dijon

Cozy and Practical Nooks

Who doesn’t love a good nook? In older Portland homes, these spaces often already exist but might feel underutilized. Turn an awkward corner into a cozy reading nook or a low-footprint office. Jewel tones, wood paneling, and soft textiles can elevate these small spaces, transforming them into functional sanctuaries.

Artistic Lighting

Space-age abstract lighting, think black metal lines and exposed bulbs are out. Replaced by softer, vintage-inspired options. Look for pendant lights or glass table lamps in warm, rich hues. These lighting pieces act as functional art, bringing personality and charm to a room.

Trends to Skip

Bold Colored Kitchens

With 70s-inspired palettes on the rise, it might be tempting to lean into bright oranges, yellows, or even pinks for your kitchen. While these colors can make a fun statement, they’re unlikely to stand the test of time. Kitchens are among the most expensive spaces to remodel, so keep bold colors limited to accents like backsplashes or easily replaceable light fixtures.

Going Overboard with Themes

There’s a fine line between embracing a style and letting it take over your home. Balance is key to avoid creating a space that feels dated or overly curated. Some trends this year that probably won’t last long include animal print, “mob wife,” metal and mirror accents, and brick back splashes. If these trends are ones you want to hop on board with we recommend doing so in less permanent ways. Incorporate leopard print or leather with throw pillows or blankets rather than an entire chaise lounge or wall.

Trends That Are Out

All White (or Gray) Everything

The overly minimal, monochromatic look has been on its way out for years, but 2025 is the year it’s officially over. The internet is full of jokes about “millennial gray” homes, so if this was your plan for a refresh, it’s time to explore other options. Earthy tones and warmer palettes are the new go-to. If you love a white neutral back drop consider a warm soft white over the crisp bright whites we’ve seen the last decade.

Black and Brass Kitchens

Once a symbol of modern luxury, black and brass kitchens now feel too dramatic and, if poorly executed, cold. Instead, consider pairing dark wood cabinets with stone countertops for a sophisticated yet inviting feel.

In 2025, interior design is embracing warmth, functionality, and personality. Whether you’re experimenting with bold textures, creating a cozy nook, or updating your lighting, the key is to design a home that feels authentic to you. Let these trends inspire, but don’t feel bound by them—after all, the best spaces are the ones that reflect their owners’ unique styles.

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