Designers have spoken and we listened. Hear it from the pros or see how the trends speak for themselves. Our team has delved into countless articles, blogs, and expert analyses to uncover the real estate design trends set to define 2025. We’ve curated the trends that consistently stood out across various sources and the ones that decided that 2024 was not a long enough time to stay in style. While these insights may not perfectly reflect the views of RLAH @properties, we believe staying ahead of the curve is essential as lifestyle advisors and marketing professionals. Reach out to us for a resale opinion or to share the vision behind your next real estate design project—we’d love to connect!
Sources: Architectural Digest, Better Homes & Gardens, Elle Decor, Forbes, House Beautiful, Houzz, Kit Kemp, Martha Stewart, Studio McGee, Veranda, Vogue
Image Credits on each page, no copyright infringement is intended.
"As we reflect on the design trends of the past year, it’s clear that our homes have come to not only represent ourselves, but a projection of what we need to feel comforted."
-Architectural
AD100 Team
Digest
Dan Howarth, Jessica Ritz, Jesse Dorris, Nora Taylor, and Nabi Williams
PANTONE
Color of the Year 2025: Mocha
BEHR
Color of the Year 2025: Rumors
Color of the Year 2025: Cinnamon Slate
Mousse
BENJAMIN MOORE
Dan Ko, Enduring Style, BEHR
the return of the formal living room
a sanctuary for intentional living
Yes, we can’t believe it either. After years of “knocking down walls” to open up interiors, we are slowly reverting back to separation. In 2025, interior design takes a nostalgic turn with the revival of the formal living room, a space dedicated to entertaining and aesthetic enjoyment rather than technology. Drawing inspiration from the 1930s, this trend is a response to the blurred boundaries of modern homes, where every room has become a multipurpose space. Instead, the formal living room reclaims its place as a sanctuary for intentional living.
We see this as a return to thoughtfully designed spaces where socializing and style take precedence. Separate from media rooms, these living areas are set to feature bar carts, multiple seating vignettes, fireplaces, and carefully curated art collections. It’s about creating a room where the sofa and television are no longer the focal point, but rather where elegance and conversation take center stage.
Plush fabrics such as mohair and velvet will dominate, paired with jewel tones and intricate wood accents to evoke a sense of timeless luxury. Layered lighting and sculptural furniture will add to the room’s refined atmosphere, while personal touches like heirloom pieces or bespoke artwork make these spaces feel truly special.
This revival is more than just a design choice, it’s a lifestyle statement. In 2025, the formal living room is where we gather, relax, and celebrate the art of living beautifully.
Image Credits: William Jess Laird
lived in lux
The most coveted living spaces are those that tell a story...
This celebrates rooms filled with character and personality, achieved through a curated mix of old and new. These spaces feel layered and authentic, offering a visual narrative of the homeowner’s life and taste.
Central to this look is a thoughtful blend of furnishings and accessories. Picture a leather chair with a perfectly worn patina, mismatched frames showcasing art collected over time, or vintage rugs adding texture and warmth. These pieces, whether inherited or sourced from antique shops, bring history and depth to a room. When paired with sleek, modern touches—like contemporary lighting or streamlined furniture— the result is a harmonious blend of past and present.
This approach isn’t about perfection; it’s about embracing imperfection.
A scuffed table or weathered wood frame becomes a point of charm, lending soul to a space. It’s a design philosophy that values meaning over uniformity, creating a home that feels lived-in, layered, and uniquely yours. This trend is more than a design aesthetic—it’s an invitation to surround yourself with pieces that matter, crafting rooms that feel as personal as they are stylish.
Image Credits: Pop Salvage, Pexels
Image Credits: Pop Salvage
passementerie
Us “design aficionados” are embracing the charm of passementerie—those luxurious trimmings like tassels, cords, and fringe that once adorned the most elegant interiors. This revival pays homage to the craftsmanship of the past while offering a fresh take on embellishment for modern homes.
From slipper chairs draped in delicate fringe to curtains adorned with intricate tassel tiebacks, these details add richness and texture to any room. Designers are incorporating piping and colorful trims to accent upholstery and cushions, creating subtle yet striking moments of visual interest.
Passementerie is a statement of sophistication and individuality, perfectly at home in spaces that blend tradition with contemporary sensibilities. Whether it’s a corded detail on a headboard or a moiré-draped window treatment, these bespoke touches elevate a room, proving that even the smallest embellishments can make the biggest impact.
Scalloping
Scalloping, with its graceful curves inspired by the edges of a scallop shell, is making waves in 2025 interior design. This versatile motif brings a touch of whimsy and elegance to any room, whether through decorative accents or bold architectural details.
In furniture, scalloped edges appear on mirrors, side tables, and even upholstered pieces, adding a playful sophistication. For larger design elements, scalloping makes a statement on countertop edges, headboards, and moldings, blending artistry with functionality.
This trend is all about celebrating curves and softening straight lines, offering a fresh take on traditional shapes. Scalloped fringe, embroidery, and trims on textiles enhance the look, infusing rooms with charm and personality.
Whether incorporated subtly or used as a standout feature, scalloping is an artful way to introduce texture and detail. It’s a trend that brings warmth and creativity, proving that design is in the details.
Western Cowboy
If you remember in 2023 we had our Coastal Grandmother and now we have western cowboy cousin. This style is riding high as a 2025 design favorite, bringing rugged charm and refined elegance to interiors. Rooted in the rich heritage of the American West, this aesthetic blends vintage Americana with modern sophistication, creating spaces that feel warm, adventurous, and uniquely timeless. Think durable leather furniture, weathered wood finishes, and earthy tones inspired by sprawling prairies and desert landscapes. Elements like hides, ropes, and tasseled accents add texture, while vintage Americana details—such as equestrian art and cowboy paraphernalia—infuse spaces with personality.
This style isn’t just for rustic cabins or sprawling ranches; it’s equally at home in modern settings. Pair rough-hewn materials with refined touches like polished metals or muted floral prints to strike a balance between rugged and cozy. With its focus on organic materials, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature, Western cowboy style is perfect for creating spaces that invite you to slow down and savor the simple, soulful beauty of the great outdoors.
Image Credits: Alexander James, Pop Salvage, John Merkl
Ceiling Details
The ceiling is our “fifth wall” and is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. No longer an afterthought, ceilings are becoming an integral part of interior design, transforming rooms into immersive, transportive spaces. Designers are embracing bold choices, from rich metallic wallpapers to soft, luminous hues like blush pinks and glowing creams. Textures and materials such as draped fabrics or silver tea papers create a sense of depth and drama, elevating ceilings from functional to fabulous.
The impact of a detailed ceiling is undeniable. Whether it’s a painted pattern that draws the eye upward, a shimmering finish that amplifies light, or a bold wallpaper that introduces unexpected flair, these design elements make a room feel intentional and complete. With the ceiling in focus, every room becomes an opportunity for artistry and imagination, turning even the simplest spaces into captivating destinations.
Textural Touches
Texture takes center stage as designers prioritize warmth and tactile comfort in every room. From walls draped in silk or linen to furniture upholstered in rich, cozy fabrics, the focus is on creating spaces that invite touch and exude approachability.
This trend blends artisanal details with timeless elegance. Think mid-century classics like a Jacobsen chair upholstered in thick mohair or a Wormley sofa upgraded with plush, down-wrapped cushions. These textural layers soften sleek lines, adding a sense of coziness and familiarity.
Decorative wall finishes, such as strié or hand-painted patterns, elevate spaces with subtle dimension, while natural materials like boucle, wool, and nubby linen offer visual and tactile interest.
By incorporating textural touches, even the most formal rooms feel welcoming and relaxed, proving that great design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about how a space feels to live in.
Image
Credits: Hiroyuki Oki, Justin Coit
Image Credits: Nick Sargent, Pexels
unexpected, bold, & delightfully timeless.
red theory (unexpected)
The “Unexpected Red Theory,” coined by Brooklyn designer Taylor
Simon, highlights the transformative power of adding a pop of red to any space even where it seems out of place. This viral concept has captured the design world’s attention for its ability to bring energy and intrigue to interiors with minimal effort.
Red’s versatility and impact lie in its role as a primary color, subtly complementing or contrasting every hue in the spectrum. Whether it’s a crimson vase on a neutral shelf or a cherry-red lamp in a pastel room, these accents inject vibrancy and create a sense of imperfection that feels approachable and authentic.
From bold scarlet chairs to subtle rubyhued art, unexpected red accents are both timeless and adaptable. In 2025, this trend proves that sometimes all a room needs to feel complete is a single, striking hue in just the right place.
Dining out will never get old but what if you could have a similar experience at home? Eat-in kitchens are the solution and continue to shine as the ultimate gathering space for families and friends. Moving beyond traditional kitchen islands, these designs incorporate actual dining tables with comfortable chairs or built-in banquettes that make the kitchen feel like a true living space.
The built-in banquette, a hallmark of modern eat-in kitchens, offers cozy seating with added functionality. Often equipped with storage underneath and upholstered in washable fabrics, banquettes are as practical as they are inviting—perfect for both kids and adults.
This trend embraces the kitchen’s natural role as the heart of the home, encouraging moments of togetherness during meals, homework, or casual conversation. By combining stylish furniture, functional layouts, and a focus on comfort, eat-in kitchens embody warmth and practicality, ensuring they remain a timeless centerpiece of modern living.
out with the old and in with the... old?
Luxury French stoves and hoods from La Cornue, Lacanche, and L’Atelier are redefining kitchen design in 2025, merging modern functionality with vintage charm. These exquisite appliances evoke a sense of timeless sophistication, adding a chic, old-world flair to contemporary spaces.
La Cornue and Lacanche stoves are renowned for their handcrafted details, customizable finishes, and classic silhouettes, making them not only cooking tools but also stunning design statements.
Their vintage-inspired aesthetic, from enamel finishes to brass accents, lends warmth and character to modern kitchens. Similarly, L’Atelier stoves offer a sleek yet nostalgic appeal, seamlessly combining tradition with innovative features like gas and induction combinations.
For ventilation, plaster hoods—especially those crafted with Tadelakt techniques— are growing in popularity, adding artisanal texture and charm. Effective downdraft systems are also gaining traction, preserving clean lines and blending effortlessly with the vintage-modern aesthetic.
timeless elegance for the modern kitchen
Image Credits: Unsplash, Becky Stayner
let’s dine out (side)
Forbes told us that 2024 was the “year of the backyard” and now as we enter 2025 outdoor kitchens and patios remain a top priority for homeowners seeking to enhance their entertaining spaces. Whether hosting family gatherings or intimate dinner parties, these outdoor havens are designed for both functionality and style.
Traditional grills remain a staple, but homeowners are embracing diverse cooking options like pizza ovens, smokers, and Argentinian-style gaucho grills fueled by wood or charcoal. Weather-resistant cabinetry, built-in beverage centers, and thoughtful storage solutions complete the setup, ensuring these spaces are as practical as they are inviting.
The trend also emphasizes seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living, with complementary color palettes and materials that unify the two areas. Even in regions with four-season climates, homeowners are investing in durable, stylish features that make yearround use possible. With an increased focus on connection and gathering, outdoor kitchens and patios embody the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and design.
arches all around
Arches are making a strong comeback, continuing to be a defining element of organic modern style. Their ability to soften sharp angles and create a welcoming, cozy atmosphere makes them a favorite among designers. Arches add a touch of playfulness and elegance to spaces, making them feel more fluid and open.
This trend is seen across a variety of home features—from doorways and windows to cabinets and millwork details. Expect to see more elaborately arched mirrors and headboards with ogee or trefoil profiles, adding sophistication to bedrooms and living areas. Even furniture is getting in on the trend, with scalloped chair silhouettes bringing a sense of softness and charm to dining rooms and lounges. Incorporating arches in design is an easy way to introduce a timeless yet fresh element, enhancing both the aesthetic and emotional appeal of any room.
Credits: Lisa Romerein, Pexels
wood goes dark
Dark wood finishes are making a strong comeback, adding warmth and sophistication to modern interiors. After years of light, homogenized white oak, the pendulum has swung back to deeper, richer wood tones like walnut, mahogany, and cherry. This shift evokes a Craftsman or Stickley aesthetic, bringing character and history into contemporary spaces.
Designers are embracing darker stains that showcase the natural graining of the wood, adding depth and texture to everything from cabinetry to furniture. This trend also plays into a broader interest in vintage pieces, offering sustainable options to incorporate varied wood species and textures.
Moreover, a move toward narrower, vintage-inspired flooring profiles, such as the 2 inch plank, adds a nostalgic touch that complements the resurgence of more intimate, redefined spaces. Whether in flooring, millwork, or furniture, dark wood creates a timeless and refined backdrop for any room.
the
devil
is in the details
In 2025, interior design proves that the devil is in the details. Small decor elements are making a significant impact, transforming spaces with subtle yet striking touches. From wooden knobs on cabinetry to the elegant interplay of mixed metals, these details add texture and depth without overwhelming a room.
Unexpected pops of red, whether in accent pillows or artwork, bring energy and charm to spaces, while scalloped edges and passementerie details like fringed trims and tasseled accents inject playful sophistication.
Mixing textures and materials, such as soft velvet paired with sleek leather or matte finishes alongside glossy ceramics, enhances the tactile experience of a room. These details might seem minimal, but they have the power to define a space and create a cohesive, curated atmosphere.
Whether it’s a vintage-inspired chair with a scalloped back or a brass door handle juxtaposed with a matte black cabinet, these small, thoughtful additions breathe life and personality into every room. Overall, it’s clear that the smallest touches are the ones that make the biggest difference.
Image Credits: Unsplash, Nick Sargent
as we know trends come and go... ...but these next few decided to stay with us for 2025
curves are here to stay
Curves continue to reign supreme in 2025, building on the softer, sculptural furniture designs that began trending in 2024. Creating inviting, comfortable spaces with a soft and relaxed feel, the curves trends continues to thrive.
Pieces are becoming more sculptural to challenge perceptions and evoke emotional responses. Designers suggest that our everyday furniture can transcend function, becoming art. Curved sofas and rounded coffee tables continue to dominate living rooms. They invite us to sink in and unwind as these gentle, organic shapes foster a sense of warmth, making spaces more welcoming.
This trend extends beyond sofas, with plush armchairs, sculptural side tables, and even curved nightstands and dressers with scalloped trim making their way into bedrooms. Upholstered, amorphous headboards also embrace this trend, offering a natural, imperfect beauty. These rounded forms, often seen in both modern and vintage-inspired pieces, add a soothing, approachable quality to a room, softening sharp lines and creating a fluid, harmonious space that feels as good as it looks.
Image Credits: Unsplash, Stephan Julliard
drenching
The 2024 trend of color and pattern drenching continues to evolve into a bold, immersive experience in 2025. Designers are embracing a “more-is-more” philosophy, layering rich colors, intricate patterns, and varying textures throughout spaces to reflect personal style and creativity. This approach includes everything from grooved wall and ceiling paneling in vivid hues to patterned furniture, drapery, and textiles, all blending together in a harmonious flow.
In 2025, the trend reaches new heights with techniques like double drenching, where analogous colors of equal intensity cover walls, trim, and ceilings. This layered effect creates subtle contrast, giving a room depth and dynamic energy. Pattern drenching goes even further, enveloping the entire room in a single or complementary pattern across all surfaces—walls, upholstery, rugs, and even ceilings.
Far from overwhelming, these methods create spaces that feel intimate, inviting, and personalized, making every inch of the room a part of the visual story. Color and pattern drenching brings personality and warmth to any space, turning it into a captivating experience. more is more
Image Credits: Unsplash, Yoshihiro Makino
biophiles reunite
The biophilic design trend, which draws inspiration from the natural world, is set to continue flourishing in 2025. As eco-friendly principles gain traction, incorporating nature into interiors is seen not only as aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial to well-being. The concept is rooted in the idea that humans are innately connected to nature, and by surrounding ourselves with natural elements, we enhance both creativity and tranquility.
Expect to see biophilic influences in the form of earthy textures, organic patterns, and nature-inspired colors. Think rock walls, living plant installations, and even small indoor waterfalls. Natural materials like wood, stone, and sustainable textiles will be prominent in furniture and decor. These elements foster a harmonious flow between interior and exterior spaces, blurring the boundaries and creating peaceful, grounding environments. In 2025, biophilic decor isn’t just a trend— it’s a way to reconnect with nature, right at home.
statement range hoods
For the past couple of years, kitchen design is embracing a blend of past and present with unique statement range hoods and range alcoves becoming a focal point in kitchens. Following the popularity of plaster and dynamic curved range hoods in previous years, this year, we’re seeing a seamless mix of both styles alongside the addition of range alcoves.
Range alcoves, often inspired by English-style kitchens, are gaining traction. These recessed or arched niches, flanked by countertops and side walls, not only create a striking architectural feature but also serve to highlight bold backsplash designs. This trend allows for a natural containment of visual elements while adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen.
As more homeowners embrace the design potential of range alcoves, these spaces are becoming an artful, functional centerpiece of the kitchen, blending form and function in a way that adds character and charm to any cooking space.
Image Credits: Pexels, Chris Edwards
bold + moody colors
After years of minimalist neutrals, bold and moody colors made a comeback in 2024 and are here to stay with us in 2025. Vibrant, opulent tones such as cobalt blue, deep forest green, and inky blue are taking center stage, creating warm, inviting spaces. As previously seen, “Color-drenching” is a key trend, where saturated hues are applied across walls, cabinetry, and ceilings to achieve a cohesive, striking look.
These rich, earthy shades pair beautifully with luxurious materials like walnut and oak, offering a refined, sophisticated atmosphere. Far from the sterile whites of the past, these deep tones invite personality into the home, allowing homeowners to express themselves in bold, unique ways. Living rooms are embracing cozier, darker moods, with furniture in jewel tones like sapphire and oxblood gaining popularity. Even more muted palettes, such as dusty blush combined with deep navy or greens, create dramatic, intimate spaces perfect for relaxation. In 2025, color is no longer just an accent—it’s a statement. 35
