When it comes to decorating your home, everyone has their unique preferences.
Some people love keeping up with the latest trends, while others opt for timeless styles that never go out of fashion.
But balancing trendy looks with classic touches can be tricky.
There are pros and cons to both approaches. Those who love staying on top of trends need to be careful not to overdo it, ensuring their home doesn’t go from stylish to tacky.
On the other hand, those who stick to classic designs might risk making their home look outdated. So, how do you strike the right balance?
We spoke to four interior designers who shared their expert advice on what to embrace and what to avoid in 2025.
From wall colors to furniture choices, they revealed the mistakes that could make your home look cheap and explained how to incorporate fresh styles without regrets.
Goodbye to Gray Walls
Gray has been a staple neutral color for years, but some designers say it might be time to say goodbye to it.
Annie Elliott, the founder of Annie Elliott Design in Washington, DC, was blunt when she spoke about the color: “I cannot look at another millennial gray room or I’m going to die! It’s so sad!” While gray has been loved for its versatility, it’s now seen as a color that brings the mood down.
Wendy Glaister, who runs Wendy Glaister Interiors in California, agrees.
She acknowledged that gray, like blue, can create calm, but it’s also associated with feelings of sadness and dreariness.
While gray might not be entirely gone, it’s no longer as trendy as it once was.
White Walls Are Outdated
White walls have been a go-to choice for many years, but according to designers, they’re starting to feel boring and sterile.
Lindsie Davis, the principal designer at Blueberry Jones Design in Austin, Texas, couldn’t be more ready to see white walls fade out. “White walls are finally not the end-all-be-all,” she said.
Instead, wallpaper has become a popular choice for adding personality and style to rooms.
Davis also pointed out that people are experimenting with painted ceilings or textured materials to add boldness without overwhelming the space.
White kitchens are also on the decline, with some designers opting for lighter-colored cabinets like soft blues to bring in a fresh look.
Bright Colors Are Back – But Use With Caution
While gray and white may be on their way out, bright colors are stepping in.
Deep, rich hues like jewel tones, emerald greens, and moody blues are making a comeback.
However, experts warn that bold colors like yellow should be used cautiously. Davis loves yellow but cautions that it can be tricky.
“If not handled correctly, it could go south real quick,” she said.
Phoenix Grey, another designer, is wary of saturated colors because they can make a space feel more “primary” and less sophisticated.
He also warned against overusing multiple patterns in a single room, as it can easily become visually overwhelming.
Word Art Is a Big No
Decorating with “inspirational” word art, like the popular “Live, Laugh, Love” signs, is officially out of style.
According to Phoenix Grey, word art is a “cardinal sin.” “It has never looked good, and it will never look good,” he said.
He pointed out that word art is often tacky and can clutter a space, much like the overuse of designer logos on everyday items.
Davis agreed, adding that using word art or mass-produced décor pieces detracts from the overall design of a room.
Instead, focus on creating a more cohesive and timeless look with quality, unique items.
Curved Furniture Is on Its Way Out
For a while, curved furniture, like rounded sofas and arched chairs, was all the rage.
But according to some experts, this trend is officially over.
Annie Elliott is glad to see it go. “Curved upholstered furniture, except for traditional pieces like barrel-back chairs, is definitely out,” she said.
The trend for soft, flowing shapes has been replaced by more structured, angular furniture designs.
So, if you’ve been thinking about buying a curved sofa, it might be time to rethink that choice.
Brown Furniture Is Back – But Don’t Overdo It
Brown furniture is slowly making a comeback, but designers are cautious about how it’s being used.
While it can add warmth and depth to a room, Davis warned against overdoing it.
“I don’t want to see big, bulky brown furniture sets coming back,” she said. Too much brown can make a room feel heavy and dated.
However, when used in moderation and paired with other colors or textures, brown furniture can still add charm and richness to a space.
Drapes Are Back – But Don’t Go Overboard
Drapes are making a comeback in 2025, but designers urge restraint.
Annie Elliott, who has written a book on the subject, stressed the importance of drapes in making a room feel cozy and inviting.
However, she cautioned against going overboard with overly elaborate or dated drapery styles.
Davis echoed this, suggesting that while drapes have evolved, they need to be installed properly to look great. “Do your research!” she advised.
Choosing the right fabric and installation can make a huge difference in the overall aesthetic.
Lighting: Sculptural Designs Are In
Sculptural lighting fixtures have become a popular trend in interior design, according to Wendy Glaister. “A light fixture is more about sculptural interest than it is about light,” she said.
Designers are getting creative with lighting, making it more of an art form than just a functional piece.
Lindsie Davis agrees, praising the trend for its ability to make lighting fixtures stand out like pieces of jewelry in a room.
However, not all designers are fans. Annie Elliott believes lights should be practical, providing ample brightness and adjustability, rather than being purely decorative sculptures.
2025 promises to bring exciting changes to interior design, but it’s important to be mindful of the trends and avoid making your space look cheap or outdated.
By carefully considering which styles to embrace and which to avoid, you can create a home that feels both fresh and timeless.