Home Trends for 2025: Insights for Smart Homeowners
Home trends can be hot one minute but not so hot the next. So, how can you tell which home design trend will survive or even be a classic someday versus one that might fade faster than you can say “carpeted bathroom.”
Distinguishing between passing trends and timeless styles is crucial. With costly investments in renovations and furnishings, homeowners are wise to consider both personal taste and potential resale implications. As we look ahead to 2025, here's a balanced view on what's hot and what might require a more cautious approach.
You can avoid a pricey trend misstep by checking out real estate and staging pros’ insights about the staying power of these seven home design trends for 2025.
#1 Brass and Brushed Metals
Brass is back, but with a modern twist—think brushed gold or unlacquered brass. These finishes are gaining popularity in kitchens and bathrooms, adding a touch of elegance. "It's about striking a balance," advises Krisztina Bell of No Vacancy Home Staging in Atlanta. While trendy, these accents can enhance a home's appeal without overwhelming potential buyers.
Design Tips
Get the right finish: Use unlacquered brass or brushed bronze.
Combine brass with other metals: Options include matte black, chrome, and brushed nickel.
Focus on bathrooms and kitchens: “In Atlanta, we are still seeing the use of all colors of metals. Gold, brushed gold, and brass are trending in bathrooms, specifically in the lighting and the sink and cabinet hardware” Bell says. “It’s becoming a focal point, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.”
#2 Biophilic Design
Biophilia may sound like a medical condition, but it’s actually a trend centered on increasing a home’s connection to nature. Embracing nature indoors remains a strong trend for 2025. From incorporating plants and natural light to earthy color palettes, this design philosophy aims to enhance well-being and connectivity with the outdoors. "Biophilia is more than a trend; it's a lifestyle choice," notes Kendra Sinclair from Thumbtack. Expect this trend to evolve with innovations in sustainable and smart home technologies.
Design Tips
Focus on plants: Using plants and eco-friendly materials are great options.
Consider maintenance: Be mindful of anything that has a high level of maintenance, as it could be a deterrent for buyers. Greenery — like snake plants, ferns, or cast-iron plants — can be low-maintenance houseplant alternatives.
Think outside the plant box: Bring in other home elements, like a tree stump side table, dried flower arrangements, raw stone plinths, and coffee tables, or add art that references the outdoors.
#3 Wallpaper Renaissance
Bold, patterned wallpaper is making a comeback, particularly in small, impactful spaces like powder rooms or as a statement ceiling. While it can add depth and personality, we advise proceeding with caution for resale. Opt for timeless designs and neutral colors to appeal to a broader audience.
Design Tips
Be selective about colors and patterns: Keep the wallpaper neutral and choose an easy-on-the-eyes pattern that’s calming. That’s especially true if you plan to sell your home soon.
Be careful where you use it: Consider having your wallpaper make an appearance in a bathroom or maybe just on an accent wall if you’re wanting to make your home a bit more memorable to buyers.
Think about its positive impact on a room: It can add instant depth and texture.
#4 Natural Wood Accents
Wood elements, like ceiling beams, trim, millwork, wall paneling, and cabinetry, are adding natural wood tones back into interiors. Versatile and timeless, wood textures add warmth and character, complementing various architectural styles. "Wood accents never go out of style," emphasizes Becky Walter of Sineath Construction. Use them strategically to enhance the richness of your home.
Design Tips
Build richness in your space: Wooden elements can be used to increase the perceived “richness” of a space, says Walter.
Use it as an accent: Pops of accent wood in places — such as hardware, accents, and inlays — create a preciousness to wood and elevates this material to new heights.
Consider what you pair it with: To avoid the finish from ever appearing outdated, context is key. Pair it with modern architecture, a neutral palette, and furniture with contemporary silhouettes, so the wood finishes naturally feel timeless and of the moment.
#5 Hidden Storage Solutions
Practicality meets aesthetics with expanded storage options. From mudrooms to kitchen pantries, integrated storage solutions appeal to buyers seeking organization and functionality. "These spaces add value by adapting to different needs," explains Jessica Shaw from Turett Collaborative. Flexible designs ensure long-term utility.
Design Tips
Avoid too much customization: Watch out for overly customized or niche layouts, like too many built-ins that could crowd a room.
Use flexible solutions: Focus on creating flexible, well-designed storage solutions that work for a range of preferences. That will make your home’s storage not just convenient but also a future selling point.
Pay attention to messy parts of the home: Homeowners and home buyers want storage in entryways, but also laundry rooms, kitchens, and mudrooms.
#6 Calming Outdoor Retreats
Creating serene outdoor spaces continues to be a priority for homeowners. Whether it's a cozy reading nook or a garden sanctuary, outdoor areas serve as havens for relaxation and entertainment. After all, outdoor living can significantly enhance a home's appeal. Consider low-maintenance landscaping and thoughtful design for enduring appeal.
Design Tips
Go for a cozy but zen vibe: Consider serene color palettes, a sunroom, or a reading room.
Think about maintenance: Installing native plants in your outdoor space sets you up for more sustainable garden spaces. By factoring in systems like hardwired landscape lighting to keep you outside as the sun sets, and above-ground fire pits, you can truly appreciate your outdoor retreat.
Combine beauty and functionality: Decorative screen panels, pergolas, plantings, and other structures add an element of beauty, functionality, and privacy to outdoor areas. Consider adding a sound garden or a water feature for added audible privacy from neighbors or street traffic.
#7 Colorful Bathroom Suites
While white and neutral tones remain popular, colorful bathroom designs are gaining traction. Shades of green, teal, and other earthy hues offer a modern twist on traditional palettes. While bold colors can make a statement, approach with care, using accents or easily changeable elements for flexibility.
Design Tips
Use accents: Try bringing in more colorful accents, like towels and artwork, or even painting the walls a bright hue.
Be careful with fixture colors: Avoid choosing sinks and tiles in colors like black, pink, purple, or blue.
Keep costs in mind: The average bathroom renovation could cost $35,000, according to the National Association of REALTORS® “Remodeling Impact Report.” So again, proceed cautiously, especially if you are thinking of selling in the next few years.
Where to Start With 2025 Home Trends
When integrating new trends, start with smaller, less permanent updates like accent pieces or decor in personal spaces. For larger projects, such as kitchens and bathrooms, opt for neutral foundations with pops of trendier elements. This approach ensures your home reflects current styles while maintaining long-term appeal. Not sure if you should move forward with an update? Contact us! We’re happy to provide our expert opinion with no strings attached to maximize the return on your investment.
The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.