Getting ready to play with your floor plan? Designers continue to document homeowner patterns related to modern design, energy-efficient upgrades, colors, and organic materials.
Before you commit to a trend, pay attention to the bigger picture. Consider upgrades that'll outperform and improve your living spaces.
1. Tech-Enabled Homes and Smart Kitchens
"Technology is becoming increasingly integrated into our homes," shared Asia Ligas, Design Experience Manager for Block Renovation. "We can expect to see more homes with smart home features, such as voice-activated assistants, smart thermostats, and security systems. [In the kitchen,] we can expect even more advanced smart kitchen solutions, such as improved AI-driven cooking assistance and energy-saving features."
Backyard tech is increasing in popularity, too. “As homes are becoming smaller on the inside, outdoor space is growing in importance," share Lee Crowder, National Director of Design and Model Experience at Taylor Morrison. "People are treating [outdoor spaces] like a living room.” To make the most of their outdoor living spaces, homeowners are investing in Wi-Fi extenders, smart lighting, and outdoor home theater accessories.
2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Environmental consciousness is increasingly important. Consumers have shown a preference for eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances and lighting. "[Sustainability] may play an even larger role, with a focus on reducing waste, using renewable materials, and incorporating energy-saving technology," adds Ligas.
Manufacturers tracking renovation trends see consumers gravitate to sustainable flooring. Brands like Mohawk have upgraded their engineered hardwoods and invested in Stone Plastic/Polymer Composites that look like wood, but are actually made of stone and recycled plastic. Every square foot of this flooring contains the equivalent of 20 recycled plastic bottles!
Sustainable stone veneer, efficient home energy systems (like electric and geothermal heat pumps), and smart home systems that prioritize energy efficiency also rise to the top of our list.
3. Spa-Like Retreats
Many homeowners seek a spa-like bathroom. "We can expect this trend to continue with an emphasis on creating serene and luxurious bathroom spaces," predicts Ligas. "Popular bathroom features such as large soaking tubs, steam showers, heated floors, and high-end fixtures will be incorporated."
4. Biophilia
"Biophilia is the design principle that incorporates natural elements into the built environment," says Ligas. "This can be done through the use of plants, natural materials, and natural light."
Denise Smith, senior marketing manager at Glen-Gery also emphasizes the use of natural elements and patterns. "Bringing in [organic textures like] brick, or patterns that mirror leaves, branches or even honeycombs, adds more than just visual interest."
5. Wabi-Sabi
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfection. Ligas predicts that we'll continue to see more homes decorated with wabi-sabi design elements, such as rustic furniture, natural materials, and asymmetry.
6. Flexible Spaces
"As our lives become more hectic, we need our homes to be able to adapt to our changing needs," observes Ligas. "This means designing spaces that can be used for multiple purposes, such as a home office that can also double as a guest room."
Flexibility also lends to a rise in free-flowing indoor/outdoor spaces and outdoor kitchens. Some of the coolest design ideas we've seen lately highlight investments in covered decks, outdoor kitchen islands, square footage dedicated to storage, and outdoor fireplaces.
7. Personalized Spaces
People are increasingly looking for ways to make their homes feel unique and special. "This could mean incorporating personal touches, such as family photos or artwork, or creating a space that reflects their interests, such as a home bar or a yoga studio," predicts Ligas.
Top Color Trends
After predicting the shift towards hues of red and purple in 2024, Ligas also predicted browns trending in 2025. From Cabot's Burnt Hickory and Olympic's Oxford Brown to Benjamin Moore's Cinnamon Slate, we certainly are continuing to see brands steer consumers towards soothing, neutral tones.
Sherwin-Williams curators also predict the Digitalreal trend, described in its Summer 2025 Color & Décor Trend Report as "colors [that] stretch beyond physical boundaries and feel digitally enhanced, bioluminescent and emotionally expressive." Violet Minwax stain and color-shifting gradients are two of the five shades that frame the palette for younger homeowners and renters who embrace technology, individuality, and experimental design.
Material Trends
- Natural materials: People are increasingly drawn to the beauty and simplicity of sustainable materials and natural materials, such as wood, stone, and marble.
- Textured materials: Textured materials are a great way to add depth and dimension to a space. Some popular textured materials for renovations and interior design include linen, velvet, and terrazzo.
- Geometric patterns: Geometric patterns are a great way to add visual interest to a space. Popular geometric patterns for renovations and interior design include chevron, herringbone, and hexagons.
- Reclaimed materials: Reclaimed materials are a great way to add character and history to a space. Materials include barn wood, reclaimed brick, and reclaimed metal.
Best Practices for Planning a Renovation or Redesign
"While it's good to be aware of trends, homeowners should also ensure that their design choices align with their personal preferences, lifestyle, and the practical needs of their family," encourages Octavio Estrada, Senior Architectural Designer for Block Renovation, a streamlined platform where homeowners and contractors can get all of the tools and resources they need to plan and manage major renovation projects.
"Not every trend will be suitable or desirable for every individual, and it's okay to pick and choose what resonates personally. The goal is to create a space that feels both fresh and authentically 'you.'"
Estrada recommends that homeowners keep the following tips in mind while planning a remodeling project:
- Clarify your vision. Create mood boards, use apps like Pinterest, or keep a design journal to collect ideas and inspirations.
- Set a budget. It helps guide your decisions throughout the process. Always factor in a contingency for unexpected remodeling costs.
- Research current trends: Read interior design magazines, blogs, or watch relevant TV shows or online channels to be updated on the latest design trends for 2024.
- Hire an experienced interior designer. Hiring a design firm or expert can save you money in the long run. They can prevent expensive mistakes, pass along professional discounts, and bring your vision to life.
- Shop around. Don't rush into buying furnishings or decor. Take the time to shop around, look for sales, discounts, or even second-hand options.
- Choose the right partners. If your project involves structural changes, it’s crucial to hire the right professionals. If you’re hiring a general contractor, look for someone who is licensed, insured, and vetted.
- Incorporate sustainable choices. Sustainability continues to be a significant trend in interior design. Consider eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient kitchen appliances, or designs that have a minimal environmental impact.
- Embrace technology. Smart home systems, innovative lighting trends, and other tech-driven features are increasingly integral in modern home design.
- Quality over quantity. Instead of buying many items, invest in fewer, high-quality pieces that are durable and timeless. Antique elements can be a great addition.
- Stay adaptable. Sometimes, things might not go exactly as planned. Being adaptable allows you to navigate challenges and make the necessary changes without too much stress.
