When it comes to creating a space you love, staying ahead of the curve is key. Trends come and go, and while some endure the test of time, others fade faster than you can say “white bouclé chair.” As 2025 approaches, interior designers and trend forecasters are shedding light on decor choices that have overstayed their welcome. Whether you’re planning a home makeover or simply curious about what’s in and what’s out, here are five decor trends experts recommend saying goodbye to next year.
The Decline of “Vanilla Girl” Interiors
The soft, neutral aesthetic that dominated Instagram feeds for years is finally on its way out. Dubbed the “Vanilla Girl” look, this decor style is characterized by creamy neutrals, white bouclé chairs, and minimalist accents. While it had its moment, designers argue that it’s time to embrace a more colorful and personalized approach.
“Clients are increasingly tired of cookie-cutter, Instagrammable interiors,” says Julien Seban, an A-List designer. Instead of relying on greige tones and predictable accessories, people are looking for spaces that feel authentic and unique. Bouclé as a material may stick around, but in 2025, expect to see it in bold hues and unconventional textures rather than bland cream tones.
Incorporating more vibrant colors and meaningful pieces is the antidote to the monotony of neutral palettes. Designers suggest focusing on curation rather than trends, allowing your personal style to shine through. This shift reflects a growing demand for individuality in interior spaces.
Mindless Maximalism: Time to Edit
Maximalism, with its playful patterns and rich colors, brought excitement back to interiors. However, the unrestrained version of this trend—“granny chic” or excessive layering—is losing its charm. Jessica Davis, an A-List designer, explains, “Pattern on pattern on pattern is becoming too much. Clients are gravitating toward a more curated maximalism.”
Rather than overwhelming spaces with clashing elements, the future of maximalism lies in storytelling and careful selection. Gemma Riberti, head of interiors at WGSN, highlights the importance of a resourceful mix-and-match approach. Unique, high-quality pieces take center stage, allowing for a balance of texture, color, and pattern without the visual chaos.
In 2025, maximalism will evolve into a thoughtful design philosophy that celebrates craft and narrative. Artful curation, not overindulgence, will ensure your space feels intentional and timeless.
Goodbye to “Zoom Rooms” and Home Offices
The rise of work-from-home culture during the pandemic made home offices a must-have. But as companies call employees back to the office, dedicated workspaces are becoming less relevant. According to a 1stDibs survey, only 13% of designers expect home office renovations to be a top request in 2025, down from 32% in 2023.
Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, confirms that listings mentioning “Zoom rooms” have decreased by 34%. However, this doesn’t mean specialty rooms are going away altogether. Instead, homeowners are repurposing these spaces for creativity and leisure. Craft studios, music rooms, and art spaces are gaining traction, offering a more enriching and personal use of square footage.
For those rethinking their home office, consider transforming it into a multifunctional room. A well-designed craft or listening space can bring joy and creativity back into the home.
Cottagecore Kitchens: The End of Rustic Overload
Cottagecore kitchens, with their farmhouse sinks, brass hardware, and exposed pots, are taking a back seat in 2025. Once a charming nod to rustic living, this aesthetic has become overly nostalgic and impractical. Designers like Jessica Davis are seeing a decline in features like scalloped-edge cabinet curtains and brushed gold faucets.
Instead, kitchens are moving toward more streamlined and functional designs. Modern cabinetry, sleek finishes, and understated hardware are taking center stage. Practicality and durability are key considerations, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens.
By focusing on timeless materials and clean lines, you can create a kitchen that’s both stylish and functional. Bid farewell to outdated rustic touches and embrace a design that truly works for your lifestyle.
Moving Past ’70s Revival
Retro-inspired interiors, particularly those channeling the 1970s, had a strong run in recent years. Think mustard yellows, olive greens, and rust tones dominating spaces. But in 2025, these earthy palettes are being swapped for richer, more modern hues.
“Rich jewel tones and chocolate brown are rising in popularity,” says Anthony Barzilay Freund of 1stDibs. This shift mirrors changes in fashion, where Y2K aesthetics are making a comeback. Designers are embracing bold, saturated colors that feel fresh and forward-thinking.
While the 1970s may always hold a nostalgic allure, the future of retro decor lies in mixing and matching influences from different eras. This creates a layered and dynamic look that avoids being stuck in the past.
Crafting Spaces with Personality
If there’s one overarching theme for 2025, it’s the push toward authentic, personality-driven interiors. Designers are moving away from one-size-fits-all trends in favor of spaces that reflect individual stories. Julien Seban sums it up: “Focus on creating spaces that reflect personal history, local craftsmanship, and lasting quality.”
This approach prioritizes fewer but better materials, celebrating uniqueness over uniformity. Craftsmanship and sustainability play a significant role in this evolution, encouraging homeowners to invest in pieces that stand the test of time.
By focusing on authenticity and restraint, you’ll ensure your home remains stylish and relevant—no matter what trends come and go.
A Fresh Start for 2025
As we enter a new year, it’s the perfect time to reevaluate your decor choices and make room for what truly matters. Leaving behind outdated trends like “Vanilla Girl” interiors, maximalist clutter, and cottagecore kitchens opens the door to a more intentional and personalized approach.
Incorporating bold colors, unique craftsmanship, and thoughtful design elements will not only elevate your space but also ensure it reflects your personality. After all, timeless style is built on authenticity, not fleeting trends. Here’s to creating a home that feels as good as it looks in 2025 and beyond.
