What’s Out: Interior Trends to Leave Behind in 2025

CREDIT: ERIN KELLY

1. All-White Interiors Interior Trends

Why It’s Out:

Once the epitome of modern minimalism, all-white interiors are losing their charm. While they can look clean and crisp, they often feel sterile, cold, and impersonal. The lack of color and texture can make spaces seem flat and lifeless, lacking the warmth and depth that people now crave in their homes. Additionally, all-white spaces are notoriously difficult to maintain—every scuff, stain, or imperfection stands out like a sore thumb.

What to Do Instead: Interior Trends

Warm Neutrals: Swap stark white for warm neutrals like beige, taupe, greige, and soft earthy tones. These shades add depth while still keeping the space light and airy. INTERIOR TRENDS
Layered Textures: Introduce natural materials like wood, linen, rattan, and stone to create visual interest and warmth. INTERIOR TRENDS
Pops of Color: Add subtle color accents through artwork, textiles, or statement furniture pieces.
Soft Lighting: Use warm-toned lighting to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. INTERIOR TRENDS

Pro Tip: If you love the clean look of white, consider using off-white shades with creamy undertones, which feel softer and more lived-in. INTERIOR TRENDS

2. Black Kitchens INTERIOR TRENDS

Why It’s Out:

For years, black kitchens were the pinnacle of sleek, modern design. However, the dramatic, moody aesthetic is starting to feel harsh and dated. Black absorbs light, making spaces feel smaller and less inviting—especially in homes that lack natural light. Maintenance is also an issue: fingerprints, dust, and water spots are more noticeable on dark surfaces. INTERIOR TRENDS

What to Do Instead:

Light & Airy Palettes: Embrace lighter cabinetry in shades of cream, sage green, warm gray, or soft blues.
Natural Materials: Introduce natural wood finishes for warmth and texture. Think oak, walnut, or ash with visible grain patterns. INTERIOR TRENDS
Earthy Accents: Incorporate earthy hues like terracotta, clay, and muted greens to create a welcoming, organic vibe. INTERIOR TRENDS
Mixed Finishes: Combine light cabinetry with darker hardware or accents for contrast without overwhelming the space. INTERIOR TRENDS

Design Tip: If you still love the drama of black, consider using it as an accent color—think black faucets, handles, or light fixtures instead of entire kitchens.

3. Over-Curation

Why It’s Out:

Overly curated, minimalist spaces—where every item feels meticulously placed—are starting to lose their appeal. While minimalism had its moment, it can sometimes feel cold, sterile, and lacking in personality. Homes are meant to be lived in, not treated as museum exhibits.

Shift Your Mindset:

Embrace Imperfection: Allow your space to feel organic and lived-in. Display items that have personal meaning, even if they don’t “match.”
Layer with Love: Mix different styles, textures, and time periods. Vintage finds, heirlooms, and travel souvenirs tell a richer story than perfectly matched decor.
Let It Evolve: Instead of aiming for instant perfection, let your home grow with you. Add pieces over time as your tastes and experiences evolve.
Cozy Chaos: A little bit of “organized clutter” (like stacked books, layered rugs, or collected artwork) can make a space feel warm and inviting.

Secret Advice: The goal isn’t to create a “Pinterest-perfect” room—it’s to create a space that feels authentic to you.

4. Fluted Tile Fatigue

Why It’s Out:

Fluted tiles—with their ribbed, textured appearance—were all the rage in recent years. While they added dimension and interest to walls and backsplashes, their overuse has made them feel predictable and overdone. Plus, the grooves can be difficult to clean, making them less practical in kitchens and bathrooms.

What to Try Instead:

Textured Plaster Walls: Add depth and a handcrafted feel with Venetian plaster, limewash, or tadelakt finishes. These techniques create a soft, organic texture without overwhelming the space.
Handmade Tiles: Opt for handmade or zellige tiles with natural variations in color and texture. Their imperfect charm adds character and warmth.
Bold Patterns: Experiment with graphic tiles, geometric mosaics, or even painted murals for a fresh, artistic touch.
Natural Stone: Consider slabs of marble, travertine, or soapstone for a sophisticated, timeless look.

Pro Tip: Focus on tactility—design surfaces you’ll want to touch, not just look at.

5. Space-Age Light Fixtures

Why It’s Out:

Once a futuristic favorite, Sputnik-style light fixtures and other space-age designs are starting to feel passé. Their sharp, metallic lines can come across as cold and overly mechanical, clashing with the warmer, more organic aesthetics dominating 2025.

Better Alternatives:

Organic Shapes: Choose lighting with curved, flowing forms inspired by nature—think hand-blown glass, ceramic pendants, or sculptural designs that feel artisanal.
Natural Materials: Opt for fixtures made from rattan, wood, stone, or woven fibers for a grounded, earthy vibe.
Soft, Diffused Light: Look for lampshades in linen, paper, or frosted glass that create a warm, ambient glow instead of harsh, direct light.
Artisanal Touches: Support local artisans or small brands for unique, handcrafted pieces that add character to your space.

Design Tip: Consider layered lighting—a mix of floor lamps, sconces, and table lamps—to create a cozy, well-lit environment rather than relying solely on overhead fixtures.

Bonus Trends to Leave Behind in 2025:

Fast Furniture: Say goodbye to cheaply made, disposable furniture. Sustainability and longevity are key.
Grey Everything: The “50 Shades of Grey” interior trend has run its course. Warm neutrals are the new go-to.
Open Shelving Overload: While open shelves can be beautiful, too many can feel cluttered. Balance is key.
Matching Furniture Sets: Spaces feel more dynamic and personal when you mix styles instead of buying coordinated sets.

Overly Themed Rooms: Rigid design “themes” feel forced. Aim for spaces that reflect your personality, not a catalog.

Ready to Transform Your Space?

At MGS Contracting Services, we specialize in bringing the latest interior design trends to life with quality craftsmanship and expert guidance. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or undertake a full home renovation, our team is here to help.

Contact us today to start your interior transformation and make your dream space a reality in 2025!