Read on to discover what WIN Award judge Lauren Chiu (pictured below) believes will be the three major trends set to shape interior design in 2024/25.
Three distinct stories are emerging for home décor in 2024/25. As identified, predicted and tracked by the Colour & Materials team at Stylus, key aesthetics span subtle sophistication as well as the use of uplifting brights and pastels. Meanwhile we can expect a championing of sustainable pragmatism in the months ahead.
Organic Minimalism
The "quiet luxury" trend continues to make its mark on home décor, driven by the growing consumer desire for understated elegance and subtle sophistication. We saw numerous established and emerging brands presenting calm aesthetics at Copenhagen’s 3 Days of Design event in June, including Louise Roe's installation, pictured above. This reductionist ethos is characterised by pared-back design, natural colour schemes, organic textures and beautiful craftsmanship.
Over the next year, interior design will focus on elemental colours, enduring materials and crafts that exude a timeless charm. In addition to the more obvious neutral tones, colour palettes will incorporate deep celestial pigments that create a moody atmosphere, complemented by radiant hues that mimic a warm, gentle glow. Metallic finishes, used sparingly, can add a subtle opulence to refined interiors through trims, hardware and decorative items.
Among the entries, I’ll be looking out for excellent craftsmanship, quietly hard-working designs and human-centred approaches that optimise comfort and instil a sense of serenity.
Expressive & Characterful
Colours that evoke joy and optimism are becoming ever-more important in interiors, supporting the creation of fun and feel-good environments – something that consumers are increasingly searching for. Think uplifting brights and pastels, which are inviting, light-hearted and whimsical, as seen in Helle Mardahl's glass designs, pictured above. Softened hues can also infuse interiors with harmonious energy and help to create a sanctuary of positivity.
The desire for self-expression in the home is currently driving lucrative crossovers between the fashion and interiors industries. As personal spaces become canvases for individual expression, people increasingly draw on their own narratives, history and cultural heritage to create unique environments. In the coming year, we expect to see a proliferation of patterns across interior surfaces such as wallpaper, upholstery, tableware and textiles.
I’d encourage entrants this year to showcase uplifting visions and concepts, and to stimulate an emotional response from the judges through compelling storytelling and characterful design.
Sustainable Simplicity
Sustainability will be a defining principle in future interiors. Upcycling waste is already front of mind for conscious designers, with many now embracing a ‘nothing new’ approach by favouring existing resources. At Stylus, we’re anticipating a stronger focus on materials that promote reuse and circularity, such as bio-based innovations, recycled composites and regenerated textiles. Interiors are set to take on a clean, industrial and practical look that reflects this fresh and contemporary take on sustainability. Expect to see pure whites and clean tones accented by bold primary colours and utilitarian shades. Modular forms, graphic shapes and geometric patterns will become more prevalent. Stainless steel and aluminium, which featured prominently at this year’s Milan Design Week and 3 Days of Design, will continue to enhance interiors with a sleek, industrial feel.
Entries should prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Designers need to demonstrate how their work can contribute to a greener future that’s better for both people and the planet. By using eco-conscious materials and energy-efficient solutions, they can create functional designs that meet the consumer demand for responsible living.
Main image credit: Direction Bureaux