Paint Choices That Work: Office Colors Interior Designers Swear By

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April 25, 2025

Choosing the right paint for office spaces — whether residential or commercial — is a strategic design decision that can impact daily focus, mood, and productivity. While clients may gravitate toward personal preference, interior designers know the best choices that balance individual style with environmental psychology. Here’s what’s resonating with your peers and why these shades deserve a spot on your project list.

Top Contenders That Deliver: Greige and Dark Blue

Two colors stood out in designer circles: warm greige and dark blue. Both offer vastly different moods yet rank equally high in functionality.

Greige continues to earn praise for its understated versatility. Designers recommend it as a foundational neutral that adapts well to evolving furniture and decor, while subtly encouraging calm and focus. Sherwin-Williams’ Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) is a perennial favorite, offering just enough warmth to avoid sterility without veering too beige. In client-facing environments or high-use home offices, greige delivers a low-risk, high-reward backdrop.

Dark blue, exemplified by Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy (HC-154), serves a different purpose. It supports “color drenching,” a technique where walls, trim, and ceilings are all painted the same hue to create an elegant, cocooning effect. This approach serves more than an aesthetic purpose, though; it can help establish clear spatial boundaries between work and home, which is essential in hybrid work environments. Used in corporate break-out rooms or private offices, it also adds a calming gravitas without being overpowering.

Don’t Like Greige or Dark Blue? Here Are Some Alternatives

While greige and navy dominate, other shades are gaining ground across varied office contexts:

Warm Whites

Benjamin Moore’s Simply White and Feather Down offer clean slates ideal for layered styling. These are particularly effective in offices with abundant personal artifacts or branding elements. They make a space feel open and bright, helping small offices appear larger.

Deep Greens

Shades like Ripe Olive (SW 6209) or Jasper (SW 6216) resonate with designers seeking grounded yet dramatic aesthetics. These work especially well in boutique firms or creative agencies that want a slightly unconventional but still sophisticated atmosphere.

Charcoal Grays

Think Farrow & Ball’s Down Pipe. These are sleek, moody, and professional. They offer a modern alternative to navy for clients wanting drama without vivid color. Charcoal tones pair well with a broad spectrum of accent colors, making them a safe but impactful choice.

Warm Accents

For studios, design labs, or creative consultancy offices, bold hues like Porsche Speed Yellow or Cavern Clay (SW 7701) can energize the space and spark creative thinking. Use them selectively! Feature walls or alcoves are your friend with these hues.

Sophisticated Pinks

Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster offers a mature, muted pink that brings warmth and softness without feeling juvenile. This works well in wellness, fashion, or lifestyle-focused businesses looking to infuse subtle personality into the workspace.

Palettes That Enhance Productivity

Even the best color can fall flat without a thoughtful palette. Here are two effective ways to build around our top contenders:

Dark Blue + Warm Woods + Metallics

This trio exudes sophistication. Brass, bronze, or matte black accents lend polish, while medium to dark woods ground the space. Great for executive offices or reception areas where first impressions matter.

Greige + Natural Tones + Soft Whites

Think biophilic design. The warmth of greige allows for a steely, professional feel that still pairs perfectly with trendy biophilic elements. Layer greige with light woods, greenery, and creamy whites. Add matte black hardware or leather for texture. This is particularly effective in open-plan coworking environments or client consultation spaces.

Clients want their spaces to feel intentional. They’re looking for environments that are emotionally attuned to the task at hand, whether that’s coding, collaborating, or closing deals.

When recommending paint colors, always consider the space’s primary function, lighting conditions, and the client’s brand identity or personal style. Offer palette suggestions that scale well and maintain cohesion. In a market flooded with fads, sticking to well-tested palettes backed by your peers gives your projects longevity and adaptability to stand out among modern workspaces.

Your Spring Trend Update: Maximalism, Earth Tones, and … the Return of Skirted Furniture?

By

Melissa Diehl

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April 18, 2025

As Q2 kicks off, April is setting the tone for a bolder, more expressive design season. Neutral minimalism isn’t gone, but it’s no longer the only game in town. Across residential and boutique commercial projects alike, clients are asking for color, texture, and personality, and the design world is responding. Here’s a breakdown of the most influential trends interior designers are working into their projects this spring.

Maximalism is Back, but Smarter

Maximalism in 2025 isn’t about clutter or chaos. It’s about confident layering, visual storytelling, and purposeful eclecticism. Pattern mixing is key here: stripes with florals, geometric shapes paired with organic curves, and even animal prints used as sophisticated punctuation marks in otherwise controlled palettes.

This shift isn’t accidental. After years of stripped-down spaces, there’s an appetite for rooms that feel collected, curated, and lived-in. Think: skirted chairs in vintage velvet, boldly patterned wallpaper in powder rooms, and gallery-style shelves stacked with meaningful objects. Clients want spaces that feel unique, not formulaic.

Designers should explore opportunities to blend traditional and modern elements, using expressive accents rather than overhauling entire schemes. Swapping out a neutral rug for a hand-knotted piece in warm terracotta, or mixing patterned pillows on a streamlined sofa, can completely shift the tone of a room without compromising its architecture.

Cozy, But Make It Contemporary

Skirted furniture pieces are getting a major refresh right now. Once relegated to outdated traditional rooms, they’re now appearing in updated forms with contemporary tailoring and elevated materials. What’s changing? Designers are opting for pleated or ruffled skirts in performance fabrics and refined silhouettes.

This return to softness speaks to the broader “granny-chic” wave, but with cleaner lines and better structure. A skirted bed or ottoman in a saturated jewel tone can introduce texture and warmth in spaces that might otherwise lean cold.

Avoid defaulting to fussy. Instead, use skirts as a way to add fluidity and softness. Linen and cotton blends work well for casual projects, while silks and velvets are ideal for more formal applications. The trick is balancing this softness with clean architectural detailing elsewhere in the space.

The New Backbone of Color

Color is quietly dominating, and rich browns, golden yellows, and sage greens are leading the charge. Sage in particular has emerged as a go-to base color that plays well with warm and cool tones. It works in both traditional and modern contexts, and its versatility is proving valuable across textiles, wall treatments, and upholstery.

But it’s not just about one-off accents. Designers are creating layered palettes where deep chocolates and buttery hues anchor the space, while sage acts as a bridge tone to soften transitions. Used in moderation, these colors add depth and natural warmth without overwhelming the senses.

The move toward earthy tones reflects a broader desire for grounded, cozy interiors that still feel elevated. These tones come with staying power that can be confidently integrated into long-term design plans.

Curating With Intention

We’re also seeing a growing focus on shelf styling and object curation. Open shelving, once purely functional, is now being treated as visual storytelling. Designers are curating collections that reflect travel, memory, and identity, shifting spaces from staged to personal.

Expect to see an increase in small-scale art, handmade ceramics, and vintage books used intentionally in vignettes. This trend allows designers to personalize spaces without permanent changes, giving clients flexibility and visual variety.

Use collections to soften modern interiors or give context to more eclectic ones. This also creates an opportunity for designers to collaborate with local artists and makers, elevating both design authenticity and client engagement.

The Textural Pivot

Geometric rigidity is giving way to organic lines and natural textures. From carved wood coffee tables to asymmetrical mirrors and sculptural lighting, these elements introduce a tactile counterpoint to clean-lined architecture.

Designers are increasingly relying on natural materials like walnut, rosewood, and travertine as visual anchors. The rich grain patterns and curved silhouettes can help create a sense of calm and luxury, especially in open-concept spaces.

Pairing organic forms with saturated tones like navy, chocolate, or forest green creates a layered, moody atmosphere that still feels organic. It’s a trend with depth, and one that’s likely to stick.

Spring 2025 marks a shift toward bold design choices grounded in clarity and intention. Restraint still has its place, but it’s being redefined through more expressive, personalized layers. Color, pattern, and softness are taking center stage, but they’re being used with discernment. Designers who lean into this bold-yet-considered approach will find new opportunities to elevate both form and feeling in their work.

What Clients Really Mean: Cracking the Code on Confusing Design Requests

By

Melissa Diehl

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April 4, 2025

Every designer has heard it: “I want something timeless,” “I don’t like color,” or “No chandeliers, please.” These phrases, seemingly clear, are often anything but. As you already know, interior design is as much about interpretation as it is about inspiration. The language your clients use is often steeped in personal memories, anxieties, and half-formed ideas. What they say isn’t always what they mean, and learning to decode their “design dialect” is essential to your process. We’re here to help you get it right.

Decoding Vague Vocabulary

Words like “modern,” “minimalist,” and “Victorian” are practically Rorschach tests. What one client calls “modern” might be Bauhaus-inspired minimalism; for another, it’s midcentury with a touch of boho. The term “minimalist” rarely signals a love for austere white spaces. Instead, it’s often code for a clutter-free environment with warmth and intentionality. Clients want serene, not sterile.

“Timeless” is another shapeshifter. It’s often used when clients fear their choices won’t age well. They don’t necessarily want beige-on-beige. They just want assurance that their space won’t scream 2025 in a bad way five years down the line. It’s your job to interpret that as a call for solid design fundamentals: scale, proportion, craftsmanship, and materials that last.

It’s Not the Fixture, It’s the Feeling

What clients think they want is often rooted in how they want to feel. When someone says, “I want my home to look like a five-star hotel,” they’re probably not asking for glossy marble and stiff symmetry. They want calm, luxury, and a sense of escape. Likewise, when someone insists on “no chandeliers,” they may just have a deep dislike of the stereptypical crystal pendants, not all ceiling-mounted fixtures with arms.

The “I don’t like wallpaper” crowd? Usually they’re haunted by a DIY disaster from 1987. Introduce them to modern materials, clean installations, and the versatility of today’s offerings, and you’ll often find a swift change of heart.

Unpacking Design PTSD

Many of these misunderstood design desires stem from past experiences. “No gold” doesn’t necessarily mean no warmth. It often means no brassy, shiny 1990s fixtures. Brushed brass, antique gold, or unlacquered finishes may be exactly what they’re craving once they see it. Same with “no window treatments.” It’s less about rejecting function and more about bad associations with dated valances or poorly fitted blinds. Show them the light!

Don’t take these statements at face value. Instead, dig deeper. Use samples, renderings, and reference images to peel back the layers. Often, you’ll find that their dislikes are simply bad memories in disguise.

Color Confusion Is Real

Color, perhaps the most subjective element of design, is ripe for misunderstanding. “No color” might mean no neons, not an absence of color. It could also signal fear, not preference. For some, choosing color triggers anxiety about making a wrong move. That’s where you come in, not just as a designer, but as a guide. Ease them in with texture, tone, and layered neutrals. As their confidence grows, so will their palette.

Control vs. Collaboration

When clients say, “I want my kids to design their own rooms,” understand this for what it often is: a gesture of inclusion, not delegation. Most parents want the illusion of choice more than they want a Minecraft-themed bedroom. Offer options. Let the kids engage in the process while steering the final decision through the lens of your professional vision.

Developing a shared vocabulary takes time. The most successful client relationships are built on repeated conversations, clarity, and education. Be kind, be curious, and most importantly, be patient! The more you invest in interpreting their design language early on, the fewer surprises you’ll face mid-project. So next time a client declares, “I hate wallpaper,” don’t panic. Pour a coffee, grab your swatches, and start the real conversation. That’s where the design magic begins.

What You Missed at KBIS 2025

By

Melissa Diehl

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March 19, 2025

This year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) showcased the latest in kitchen and bath innovation per usual but also placed a greater emphasis on whole-home design, sustainability, and AI-driven technology. This shift means new opportunities to integrate cutting-edge materials and smarter appliances into your projects. Feeling the FOMO? Here’s what stood out at KBIS and how to translate these trends into your next project.

Wellness and Sustainability Took Center Stage

Health-conscious design is now a non-negotiable for clients, and KBIS 2025 proved that manufacturers are taking it seriously. Clean water and air purification were central themes, with brands introducing high-performance filtration systems that remove microplastics, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds. Induction cooktops with advanced downdraft ventilation, like JennAir’s latest model, eliminate smoke and grease at the source—making range hoods optional and opening up new design possibilities for seamless kitchen layouts.

Sustainability took center stage in materials as well. Cosentino debuted Q0, a zero-silica surface made from up to 90% recycled content, setting a new standard for eco-friendly countertops. Expect sustainability credentials to play an even greater role in client decision-making, especially as regulations tighten around materials with high silica content.

On the indulgent side of wellness, cold plunges emerged as a must-have luxury feature. A sleek new ice bath won the Gold for Wellness Trailblazer at the Best of KBIS awards. As homeowners continue prioritizing spa-like experiences in their bathrooms, designers should anticipate an increased demand for high-end hydrotherapy fixtures, infrared saunas, and advanced steam shower systems.

Personalized Appliances and Fixtures

The shift toward hyper-customization was evident in nearly every category at KBIS. Appliance brands showcased an unprecedented level of personalization, allowing clients to choose from a range of hardware finishes, panel colors, and even modular configurations.

Matte white and graphite finishes are replacing traditional stainless steel as the new neutrals, offering a softer, more integrated look. But green was the real star of the show. From KitchenAid’s deep Juniper finish to True Residential’s Olive color of the year, appliance manufacturers are betting on rich, earthy tones as the next big thing in kitchen design.

Hardware personalization also reached new heights, with new selections for knobs and handles rivaling that of a jewelry store. Brands like Bertazzoni and Café now offer mix-and-match metal options for range knobs, appliance pulls, and even induction cooktop trims. This level of detail allows designers to create fully coordinated kitchens with a bespoke feel, right down to the smallest elements.

Even refrigeration is becoming more flexible. Column-style fridges, freezers, and wine storage units are now available in an expanded range of widths, making it easier to design fully customized cooling solutions. Convertible refrigerator-freezer drawers, like Midea’s 50/50 Flex 3-Way, give homeowners the ability to adjust cooling zones based on their needs—whether they’re stocking up on groceries or chilling wine for a dinner party.

Tech Gets Smarter

Artificial intelligence was everywhere at KBIS, with brands competing to integrate the most advanced AI-driven features into their appliances. One AI oven could recognize food placed inside and suggest recipes, while another AI Coffee Assistant lets users customize their coffee through voice commands. Bespoke fridges take AI a step further, using cameras to track inventory, suggest recipes based on what’s inside, and even alert homeowners when expiration dates are approaching. This level of automation is shaping the way kitchens are designed by reducing clutter (goodbye, notepads and grocery lists) and streamlining workflows.

Not all innovation at KBIS was AI-driven. One of the most talked-about breakthroughs was wireless countertop charging technology. Embedded directly into surfaces like stone and wood, this technology allows users to charge their devices simply by placing them on the counter. This invisible power solution is a game-changer for clean, modern kitchen designs and signals a move toward fully integrated smart surfaces.

The Functional Showstopper

Oversized workstation sinks are taking over, offering designers new ways to maximize prep space and functionality for home chef clients. Many workstation sinks come with multi-tiered accessories like drying racks, colanders, and cutting boards that transform them into full prep stations. And the concept is expanding beyond kitchens—Ruvati introduced a compact laundry workstation sink with a built-in wood washboard, perfect for small-space designs. For high-end kitchens, look out for integrated workstation sinks with stone-finish options that seamlessly blend into countertops (for a trendy material-drenched look).

Textured Luxury

Smooth, polished surfaces are taking a backseat to tactile, high-design textures. Fluted, ribbed, and knurled finishes were everywhere at KBIS, from cabinet fronts to sink basins and appliance panels. The linear textures bring a refined look to bath spaces, while fluted tiles are pushing engineered stone into exciting new design territory.

The expansion of textured surfaces is also influencing material innovation. The latest sintered stone collections feature deep etching techniques that mimic the look and feel of natural materials, adding depth and character to countertops, backsplashes, and even wall cladding.

The Biggest Takeaway From KBIS

The biggest message from KBIS 2025 is kitchen and bath design is now about creating fully integrated, wellness-driven, and highly personalized spaces. With AI technology automating everyday tasks and customization taking over, designers have more tools than ever to craft kitchens and bathrooms that cater to the evolving needs of clients. For designers looking to stay ahead, expect wellness, technology, and personalization to continue driving the conversation in the years ahead.

SOURCES: The Business of Home, Houzz, Houzz, Business of Home, Martha Stewart

Low Ceilings? Here Are 8 Design Hacks for a Loftier Look

By

Melissa Diehl

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March 12, 2025

High ceilings make a space feel grand, airy, and luxurious, but not every room is vertically blessed. That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a cramped, boxed-in feel. Thoughtful design strategies can create the illusion of height, making ceilings appear much higher than they actually are. From strategic furniture placement to clever color choices, these techniques will help visually stretch any space.

1. Color

A simple but highly effective way to make ceilings look higher is to keep them light, ideally white or a shade lighter than the walls. This reflects more light and creates an airier feel. To take it a step further, extend the wall color onto the ceiling for the first few inches. This subtle blending effect tricks the eye into perceiving taller walls.

Some designers swear by high-gloss ceiling paint, which enhances reflectivity, while others prefer a matte finish for a more seamless, shadow-free look. The choice depends on the specific lighting conditions of the space, but both methods can help diminish a ceiling’s visual weight.

2. Window Treatments

Never install curtains at the window frame’s edge as this instantly shortens the perceived height of the room. Instead, hang them as close to the ceiling as possible and let them extend to the floor. This creates strong vertical lines that draw the eye upward. Even if windows are small, oversized curtains can still add grandeur to the space.

For an even more striking effect, opt for sheer fabrics that let in natural light, further enhancing the illusion of openness.

3. Mirrors

Strategically placed mirrors bounce light around a room, creating depth and expanding the perceived space. A tall, oversized mirror leaning against a wall (rather than hanging it) extends sightlines and gives an added sense of scale.

To maximize this effect, place mirrors opposite windows or light sources, multiplying their impact. Floor-to-ceiling mirrored panels are another dramatic option, often used in high-end interiors to make low ceilings feel almost nonexistent.

4. Vertical Emphasis

When space is limited, think vertically in every design choice. Striped wallpaper, tall bookshelves, and elongated decorative elements guide the eye upward, making a room feel taller. Paneling or wainscoting can be especially effective—by covering the lower two-thirds of a wall and painting the upper section the same color as the ceiling, the visual effect extends the height of the room.

Artwork placement plays a crucial role as well. Hanging pieces slightly higher than usual or extending a gallery wall all the way to the ceiling makes a room feel taller. Even something as simple as placing small frames above doorways and windows can subtly enhance the illusion of height.

5. Lighting

Ceiling-mounted lights, especially bulky chandeliers or fans, visually “lower” the ceiling. Instead, use wall sconces, floor lamps, and table lamps to create a soft, upward glow. If a ceiling fixture is necessary, opt for clear or streamlined designs that don’t add visual weight.

Recessed lighting or perimeter lighting along the ceiling’s edge can also create an effect known as “uplighting,” subtly illuminating the ceiling and making it appear higher.

6. Furniture

While it may seem counterintuitive, low-profile furniture actually enhances the illusion of height by emphasizing the space between furnishings and the ceiling. The key is to balance this with pieces that don’t feel squat or heavy. Our tips:

Avoid overly wide armrests and chunky silhouettes.

Use open-legged furniture to create a sense of airiness.

Incorporate multifunctional, space-saving pieces that keep the room feeling uncluttered.

7. A Strategic Distraction

A striking rug pulls focus downward, keeping attention on the floor rather than the ceiling. This works especially well in rooms with lower ceilings, shifting perception away from height constraints. Bold patterns, rich textures, or even layered rugs can enhance this effect.

8. Minimalism

Visual clutter compresses a room, making it feel even smaller. Keeping interiors streamlined and intentional creates a sense of openness. Stick to a curated selection of furnishings and decor, leaving enough negative space for the eye to “breathe.” Layered textures, warm neutrals, and a mix of materials can maintain coziness without overwhelming the space.

Short ceilings don’t have to mean a small-feeling space. By strategically using some clever design hacks, it’s possible to create the illusion of a much loftier room.

Designing Workspaces That Work: Lessons From the Gym

By

Melissa Diehl

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March 5, 2025

As office designers rethink what it takes to bring employees back to the workplace, there’s an unlikely source of inspiration: gyms. The best fitness clubs have mastered the art of creating environments people want to visit, even when they don’t have to.

The same principles apply to workspace design. Offices that prioritize experience over obligation have the power to transform the way people work. Here’s how to take a page from the modern gym’s playbook and design offices that people actually want to be in.

Rebranding the Office Experience

Gyms today are no longer just “gyms.” They’re wellness clubs and social hubs, reframing what it means to work out.

Offices need the same rebranding. It’s time to move past “workplace” and toward innovation hub, collaboration studio, or cultural space. Employees need an environment that enhances their work, fuels their creativity, and supports their well-being.

Design a space where employees feel they gain something by showing up. Whether it’s a burst of inspiration from an impromptu brainstorming session, the energy of a buzzing communal area, or a quiet moment in a beautifully designed wellness space, the office should feel like a place worth being in.

The Right Environment Pushes People Further

One reason people prefer gyms over at-home workouts? Environment. The right setting pushes people to go further: to add five more pounds, to keep running for another ten minutes, to reach their goals and new heights.

Workplaces should work the same way. Research from the Kellogg School of Management found that sitting near a high performer can increase productivity by 15%. The presence of motivated colleagues and a thoughtfully designed space fosters better work.

This is where interior design plays a crucial role. Think beyond individual desks and create intentional micro-environments that encourage collaboration and focused work alike.

Proximity to inspiration plays a crucial role in workplace design. Positioning high-energy teams near one another fosters a culture of motivation and shared momentum, much like how gym-goers push themselves harder when surrounded by others striving for the same goal. The concept of subtle social pressure also comes into play. Open lounge areas encourage spontaneous interactions, creating an environment where employees naturally feed off each other’s energy, much like how a group workout setting leads people to push their limits.

At the same time, defined spaces for focus are just as essential. Just as gyms offer quiet zones for yoga or meditation, offices should include dedicated areas designed for deep, uninterrupted work, ensuring employees have the right setting to concentrate when needed.

Designing for Connection

Modern gyms thrive not just because of their equipment but because they build community. They make people feel like they belong. Loneliness is at an all-time high, and workplaces have an opportunity to counteract that. But forcing “collaboration” with open offices and mandatory team-building events won’t cut it. The best workplaces are spaces where connection happens naturally.

Gyms have mastered the art of creating linger-worthy spaces, using juice bars, saunas, and coworking areas to keep people engaged beyond their workouts. Offices should take a similar approach by incorporating comfortable lounges, casual meeting zones, and inviting break areas that naturally foster interaction. Shared rituals also play a key role in building community. Just as gyms rely on class schedules and recurring events to create structure, offices can establish their own rhythms with weekly team lunches, morning coffee gatherings, or end-of-day wind-down sessions. Beyond programming, intentional social design is essential. Thoughtfully planned seating arrangements, circulation flow, and breakout areas should invite conversation and collaboration without making it feel forced. A well-designed office fosters a sense of membership and belonging, just like the best fitness spaces do.

Crafting an Experience

Today’s gyms offer amenities like infrared saunas, recovery lounges, meditation pods, and even wine bars. It’s all about the experience. Offices need to follow suit. The future workspace will be a curated environment where employees feel engaged, energized, and inspired.

Some design elements to consider:

Wellness spaces for stretching, meditation, or even a quick nap.

Thoughtfully designed cafes and communal kitchens that encourage lingering.

Screens, smartboards, and digital tools that make hybrid meetings seamless.

Terraces and rooftop gardens for fresh air and a mental reset.

Employees should feel like there’s something for them beyond just checking off their to-do list, whether it’s a beautifully designed relaxation nook, a café-style lounge, or an inspiring breakout space.

Designing Workplaces That People Want to Be In

Gyms have proven that when you design a space with intention, people want to be there. The same is true for offices. The most successful workplaces are places that enrich the new way people work and collaborate.

This shift will require strategy, experience, and understanding what makes people tick. The future office is an ecosystem where design, culture, and business goals align. Don’t just design an office for your next corporate client. Design a destination.

SOURCES: Kellogg Insight, Work Design

The Materials and Textiles Defining Interiors in 2025

By

Melissa Diehl

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March 3, 2025

In 2025, interior design seems to be embracing a new balance—rich, tactile, and deeply rooted in materiality, yet forward-thinking and innovative. The maximalist surge of the past few years is softening, giving way to a more curated approach where textures, finishes, and textiles tell a nuanced story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and technological evolution. Here’s what’s shaping interiors this year.

Dark, Moody Woods Are Back

After years of pale oak dominating interiors, designers are shifting toward deeper, richer wood tones. Mahogany, walnut, and dark-stained oak are reclaiming prominence, bringing warmth, depth, and a sense of permanence to spaces. The resurgence of classic craftsmanship, think Stickley, William Morris, and even Brutalist influences, is lending interiors a layered, heritage feel.

Beyond aesthetics, the return to darker woods aligns with sustainability trends. Many designers are specifying reclaimed or vintage wood pieces, integrating sustainability with the appeal of timeworn patina. Even flooring is shifting: narrow two-and-a-quarter-inch boards, reminiscent of historic homes, are gaining traction, marking a departure from the ubiquitous wide-plank look.

Textured Walls Are the New Standard

Flat, uniform walls are quickly becoming outdated. In their place: depth, movement, and material authenticity. Venetian plaster, tadelakt, limewash, and even upholstered walls are gaining ground, adding warmth and softness. These finishes not only provide visual texture but also interact with light differently throughout the day, creating subtle shifts in mood and atmosphere.

On the other end of the spectrum, high-gloss lacquer walls are making a bold statement, especially in small, intimate spaces like powder rooms and libraries. This juxtaposition of matte and gloss surfaces reflects a broader design shift: curation over minimalism, drama over uniformity.

Performance Goes Luxe

Designers are leaning into high-performance textiles that mimic the softness of traditional upholstery, making them a go-to for both indoor and outdoor applications. This movement is particularly strong in high-humidity and sun-soaked climates, where fading and wear are major concerns.

Expect to see more velvets, bouclés, and woven textiles in resilient compositions, making traditionally delicate materials more accessible for everyday use. Even classic patterns, florals, stripes, and damasks, are re-emerging, but in more subdued and tonal applications.

Metals Age Gracefully

The days of uniform metal finishes are fading. Mixed metals (think blackened steel with antique brass or zinc with aged bronze) are becoming the new normal. Unlacquered and living finishes are preferred, celebrating the beauty of materials that evolve with time.

A particularly exciting development is the introduction of white bronze alloys, offering a moody, reflective quality without the starkness of polished chrome. This plays well with the rise of darker wood tones, reinforcing a shift toward interiors that feel storied rather than brand new.

Glass Bricks Are Being Reimagined

Once an ‘80s relic, glass bricks are being reimagined as a design-forward material. Their ability to diffuse light while maintaining privacy makes them ideal for partition walls, textured facades, and even furniture elements. Unlike their past iterations, contemporary glass bricks are available in a range of finishes, offering designers more creative freedom.

In retail and hospitality, glass bricks are being used to create glowing architectural features that shift ambiance throughout the day. In residential spaces, they’re proving to be a valuable tool for dividing rooms without sacrificing openness.

Tile is Going Bold

At Coverings 2025, a clear theme emerged: tile design is evolving far beyond its traditional roles. Large-format tiles in rich stone-inspired hues are dominating walls, floors, and even furniture, creating a seamless, immersive effect often referred to as mineral drenching. Texture is also taking center stage, with tiles mimicking textiles through corrugated, rippled, and engraved surfaces that add depth and movement. Geometric expression is another defining trend, with fluted, ribbed, and inlaid metallic accents introducing bold linear patterns that bring graphic interest to interiors. Meanwhile, water-inspired palettes are making waves, with soft aquas, deep blues, and organic, wave-like patterns becoming especially popular in bathrooms and spa-like retreats.

The Return of Embellishment

For years, interiors were stripped of excess. Now, details are making a comeback. This time with precision and intention. Passementerie, or tassels, trims, and fringes, are appearing on everything from slipper chairs to drapery, albeit in cleaner, more sculptural forms. Moiré, damask, and embroidery are re-entering the conversation, hinting at a future where decorative artistry is once again celebrated.

This return to embellishment is about a resurgence in the appreciation of craftsmanship. Every detail, from a perfectly piped cushion to a hand-applied plaster finish, is meant to be noticed and appreciated.

Where Interior Design is Headed

If there’s one overarching theme for 2025, it’s a rejection of homogeneity. Interiors are becoming richer, more tactile, and more layered. Performance and sustainability are being seamlessly woven into luxury, proving that design doesn’t have to sacrifice beauty for function.

For designers, this means embracing a more nuanced approach: mixing, rather than matching, and curating, rather than overhauling. Spaces should feel timeless yet deeply personal, reflecting both material integrity and a considered, human touch.

SOURCES: i+s, Arch Daily, Architectual Digest

Why “Bedcore” Is the Next Big Thing in Design (And How To Nail It)

By

Melissa Diehl

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February 21, 2025

Sleep is having its design moment, and it’s more than just picking the perfect mattress. Welcome to the era of “bedcore,” where sleep hygiene is shaping bedroom aesthetics, blending wellness with style at the most personal level. As research continues to highlight sleep’s impact on health and longevity, clients are increasingly seeking spaces that look stunning and promote better rest. Here’s how to stay ahead of this evolving trend to create environments that soothe the senses while supporting modern sleep habits.

Designing for Calm

Forget stark minimalism of Kardashian mansions past. Today’s sleep-friendly bedrooms embrace warmth and simplicity without feeling sterile. Soothing tones, think warm neutrals, earthy greens, and soft blues, create a calming foundation that prepares the mind for rest. The key? Balance minimal clutter with intentional textures and patterns. Throw pillows, layered bedding, and curated artwork offer visual interest without overwhelming the space. The ultimate goal: design a room that’s visually restful, so the mind can unwind as soon as your client steps inside.

Striking Balance With Tech

Technology’s role in the bedroom is a hotly debated topic. For some clients, the bedroom is a tech-free zone. Designers are seeing more requests for analog spaces: no TVs, no visible phones. Built-in nightstand chargers can keep devices out of sight (and out of mind), helping clients avoid the temptation of late-night scrolling.

But tech isn’t off the table entirely. Smart lighting systems support natural circadian rhythms with adjustable luminosity and temperature. Set to warmer tones in the evening and cooler hues in the morning, these systems help regulate sleep-wake cycles, with no rewiring required. For tech-friendly clients, smart bulbs and voice-controlled systems offer convenience without disrupting the bedroom’s clean aesthetic.

Mastering Light Control

Light management is non-negotiable when it comes to sleep hygiene. Automatic blackout drapes are a top request, allowing clients to adjust light levels from the comfort of their beds. But not every client wants a tech-forward solution. Some designers are turning to layered window treatments—blinds, Roman shades, and curtains—giving clients more nuanced control over natural light.

Beyond functionality, these treatments also add depth and texture to the space. Layering fabrics softens the room’s look, while custom draperies elevate the overall aesthetic. For clients seeking a more immersive feel, the trend of wrapping bedrooms in coordinated wallpapers and textiles (think upholstered walls paired with matching drapes) creates a cocoon-like atmosphere that’s perfect for winding down.

From “Bed Rotting” to “Bedcore”

The rise of social media-driven trends like “bed rotting,” where people embrace guilt-free lounging in bed, has redefined what clients expect from their bedrooms. Comfort is paramount, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Designers are responding with plush upholstered headboards, extra-cozy bedding, and furniture that supports both sleep and relaxation.

For shared bedrooms or guest spaces, adult bunk beds are making a stylish comeback, offering space-saving solutions without skimping on comfort. This trend taps into both nostalgia and practicality, proving that smart design can maximize even the smallest bedrooms.

Customization Is Key

One of the biggest shifts in bedroom design is the rise of personalization. Clients want spaces tailored to their specific sleep habits and aesthetic preferences. Homeowners are more confident in expressing their unique styles, seeking designs that reflect their personalities while supporting their wellness goals.

For designers, that means listening closely to each client’s needs, whether that’s a pitch-black room for light-sensitive sleepers, a minimalist retreat free of distractions, or a layered, romantic space that feels like a personal sanctuary. The key is balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal to create bedrooms that are as beautiful as they are restful.

Wellness-Driven Design is the Future

The connection between sleep and our overall well-being is clear. It’s time bedroom design stepped up to the challenge, evolving from mere aesthetics to a holistic approach that prioritizes rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The time is now to create spaces for sleep that not only look stunning but also help clients sleep better, proving that good design truly does lead to better living.

SOURCES: Architectural Digest

Surrealism Takes Center Stage at Maison&Objet 2025: 6 Trends to Watch

By

Melissa Diehl

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February 17, 2025

M&O-Jan25_HALL7-What's New In Decor_0421_©Anne-Emmanuelle Thion — ©Anne-Emmanuelle Thion

Inspired by the 1924 Surrealist Manifesto, which advocated for freeing the subconscious mind and rejecting rational thought to unleash creativity, Maison&Objet this year explored the power of the unreal with its “Sur/Reality” exhibition, offering a welcome escape from the often absurd reality of our daily lives.

Designers, artists, and brands alike embraced the dreamlike ethos of surrealism at Maison&Objet 2025 to create objects and spaces that defy convention and inspire the imagination. Looking to infuse a sense of surrealist wonder into your next project? Let’s explore the key trends, designs, and ideas that defined the show.

1. Breaking the Rules

Surrealism’s penchant for illusory and hypnotic visuals was front and center. Patterns that played with optical effects—like checkerboards and distorted stripes—resonated strongly, offering an evocative way to energize spaces while challenging spatial perception.

For interior designers, this trend suggests an opportunity to push boundaries. Whether it’s a rug that disrupts the geometry of a room or furniture with asymmetrical silhouettes, these elements add energy and intrigue. Beyond aesthetics, consider how these elements can shift the feel of a space—softening rigidity or adding depth to otherwise conventional layouts.

How to Apply It: Maximalism isn’t going anywhere, and surrealist-inspired designs are ripe for experimentation. Experiment with patterns that evoke movement or optical effects. Mix contrasting materials—like glossy and matte finishes—to create tension that draws the eye. Focus on a few bold features to avoid overwhelming the design.

2. Whimsy and Storytelling Through Objects

Attendees also witnessed the power of objects to tell stories, with many designs drawing on humor, nostalgia, and the fantastical. Confectionery-inspired ceramics, anthropomorphic vases, and anatomical motifs were standout examples.

These whimsical touches allow designers to infuse interiors with deeper narratives, referencing culture, history, and emotion. They can also balance the avant-garde with a sense of familiarity, making them versatile additions to both modern and eclectic spaces.

How to Apply It: Source decorative pieces that evoke emotion or spark conversation. Look for designs that reinterpret familiar shapes, such as vases, lamps, or mirrors, in surprising ways. Use these pieces as focal points or to add character to less prominent areas like shelves, side tables, or entryways.

Playful, food-inspired décor offers an opportunity to add personality and charm to kitchens, dining spaces, or retail projects, while human-inspired forms, used sparingly but strategically, can create focal points that provoke thought and conversation.

3. Redefining Surrealist Palettes

Color played a starring role this year, as designers embraced vibrant palettes to redefine the surrealist aesthetic with iridescence, transparency, and high-contrast primary hues. These bold palettes challenge the neutral tones dominating modern interiors, offering fresh ways to energize spaces. This move toward more adventurous color palettes signals a broader desire for interiors that evoke joy, excitement, and emotion.

How to Apply It: Pair bold hues with neutrals for balance. Introduce reflective or layered surfaces to amplify color effects and create optical depth. Vibrant, oversized rugs or sculptural furniture can serve as statement pieces in an otherwise toned-down room.

4. Play Big, Think Small

Surrealism often manipulates proportions to evoke wonder, and this was a defining feature of the fair. Designers showcased oversized pendant lamps, scaled-up furnishings, and miniature, delicate objects in ways that balanced drama with intimacy. This juxtaposition of scales invites designers to reimagine proportions in their projects, whether through architectural elements or decorative details.

Oversized pieces can anchor a room, providing a sense of grandeur or playfulness, while miniature accents offer moments of intimacy and whimsy. When used together, they create a dynamic interplay that keeps the eye engaged.

How to Apply It: Scale is a tool to structure space and guide the eye. Use oversized or undersized elements intentionally to evoke surprise and wonder. Add one or two oversized elements, such as a dramatic light fixture or an extra-large coffee table, to command attention, and balance these with smaller, intricate details—like delicate ceramics or scaled-down sculptures—that encourage closer inspection.

5. Accessible Collectible Design

Maison&Objet highlighted the rise of accessible “collectible design,” offering limited-edition pieces that blend fantasy with utility. Tivoli’s Strikha Chair Lounge, with its oversized proportions and playful scalloped base, and Drugeot Manufacture’s expanded Organic Collection demonstrated that high-impact design doesn’t have to come at exorbitant costs.

This trend is perfect for clients seeking unique, personal elements that feel curated and exclusive without alienating practicality. It also reinforces the importance of storytelling in design—giving pieces meaning and emotional resonance.

How to Apply It: Seek out artisanal or limited-edition pieces that balance uniqueness with functionality. Integrate these elements as accents or key features in a room to emphasize their importance. Highlight their story to enhance the emotional connection for your clients.

6. Lighting as Functional Art

Lighting design emerged as a hero category, with brands like Masiero and Veronese creating fixtures that doubled as sculptures. Masiero’s Nappe Collection transformed tassels into vividly colored pendant lights, while Veronese’s ANÉMONE Collection drew on the organic forms of underwater life. These imaginative designs elevate lighting from a supporting role to a starring feature.

How to Apply It: Don’t underestimate the power of lighting to redefine a space. Choose lighting fixtures with sculptural qualities or unexpected forms. Experiment with colored or textured glass, reflective surfaces, or layered materials to create dynamic lighting effects. Use these bold, sculptural fixtures to anchor dining areas, entryways, or other focal points.

Maison & Objet 2025 showcased a powerful message: design is an escape, a dream, and an act of rebellion against the mundane. Embracing surrealist influences—be it through bold patterns, playful forms, or meaningful interior details—can help craft spaces that inspire and delight.

SOURCES: Maison&Objet, Houzz, Design-milk

An Industry Under Pressure: Is Interior Design on the Brink of an Exodus?

By

Melissa Diehl

-

February 7, 2025

The interior design and architecture industry is facing a reckoning. Long seen as a desirable and creative profession, behind the curated Instagram feeds and stunning project portfolio shots, many interior designers are struggling with burnout, low pay, and toxic workplace culture. A recent Dezeen survey uncovered a harsh reality: one in five design professionals is actively looking for a way out.

While interior design is often perceived as a glamorous profession, the reality behind the scenes is often vastly different. Many designers find themselves grappling with unpaid overtime, unrealistic client demands, and limited career progression. If these issues persist, we may witness a significant talent drain in the coming years as the industry risks losing some of its best talent.

The Price of Passion

Despite the challenges, Dezeen‘s survey found that 73% of respondents still enjoy their jobs. Creativity, problem-solving and passion fuel the industry, but at what cost? The love for design keeps many professionals going, but long hours, financial insecurity, and workplace toxicity are pushing others to the brink. Let’s look at the numbers.

Unpaid Overtime is the Norm, Not the Exception
Two-thirds of surveyed professionals admit they regularly work beyond their contracted hours—without extra pay. Some even have unpaid overtime written into their contracts. This isn’t just unfair; it’s a recipe for burnout.

Passion Doesn’t Pay the Bills
Designers pour their energy into projects, yet only 29% of survey participants feel fairly compensated and nearly half believe they are underpaid. With student loans, rising living costs, and the need to invest in professional development, many designers find themselves working tirelessly for wages that fail to reflect their skill and dedication.

A Toxic Culture
More than half of surveyed designers (61%) have experienced or witnessed bullying, belittling, or excessive criticism in the workplace. For women and minorities, the numbers are even worse, with reports of sexism, discrimination, and systemic bias and nearly half of all female respondents citing sexism or misogyny at work. No one should have to sacrifice their well-being to succeed in their career.

These statistics paint a stark picture of an industry where stress, financial insecurity, and poor management often overshadow the passion that drew designers to the field in the first place.

Are We Facing a Talent Crisis?

The most alarming takeaway from Dezeen’s findings? A significant chunk of the workforce is considering an exit strategy.

Only 26% of surveyed professionals say they’re in this for the long haul. Another 20% are actively planning a career change, and nearly a quarter remain undecided about their future. That means almost half of the industry is in flux.

Where are they going? Many are shifting to adjacent fields like branding, marketing, and digital design—where pay is better, work-life balance is respected, and toxic office dynamics aren’t the norm. If this trend continues, the industry could face a massive talent drain, making it harder for design firms to maintain high standards and a culture of innovation.

How to Fix a “Broken” Industry

If the industry is to retain its best talent, urgent changes are needed. Here’s where firms—and designers—need to start:

Pay Designers What They’re Worth
Low pay is one of the biggest reasons designers leave. Firms must rework salary structures and ensure fair compensation. Designers should also advocate for themselves, negotiate salaries, and demand contracts that respect their time. Passion is important, but it shouldn’t mean accepting financial instability.

Stop Letting Clients Take Advantage
Endless revisions, unpaid changes, and unreasonable demands? It’s time to put a stop to them. Firms and designers alike need to set clear boundaries, enforce contracts, and educate clients about the value of design work. If the industry keeps bending over backward for unrealistic expectations, designers will continue paying the price.

Fix Toxic Culture
A workplace that fosters creativity shouldn’t be one where designers feel belittled, overworked, or discriminated against. Firms must implement zero-tolerance policies for toxic behavior, actively promote diversity and inclusion, and support employee well-being. The industry can’t afford to keep pushing talented professionals out due to poor leadership and outdated attitudes.

Create Real Career Growth Opportunities
Many designers feel stuck, with limited chances to grow. Firms need to invest in leadership training, mentorship programs, and continuing education. Designers, in turn, should expand their skill sets in areas like business, technology, or project management to open new doors and future-proof their careers.

The Future of Interior Design

Dezeen’s survey is a wake-up call. If firms don’t take action, the industry could lose a generation of talented professionals to fields that offer better pay, respect, and work-life balance.

For designers, this is a moment of reflection. While challenges persist, there are opportunities to shape a better future—whether by advocating for change within firms, setting boundaries with clients, or even exploring new career directions. Change is possible—but only if more people push for it. Whether it’s demanding fair pay, setting clearer boundaries, or calling out toxic work environments, the future of interior design depends on those who refuse to accept the status quo.

So, what’s next for you? Have you faced similar challenges in your career? Will you be staying and fighting for better conditions… or looking for a way out? Have your story be heard! Contact interiordesign@industry411.com to share your story and expertise!