• Surprising Design Trends Making a Comeback in 2025

  • It is true that design trends come and go. What was once popular can become overused or dated but may surprisingly resurface again in exciting ways. You can adhere strictly to a code of timeless design styles that never seems to age, but where’s the fun in that? We say the most important thing is to create a home that speaks to you, especially if you plan to live there for a long time! Here are a few design styles that have previously been put on the back burner but are back in 2025!  
     

    DARK WOOD CABINETS 

    Light wood tones have been extremely popular in the last couple of years and have been used in many modern designs. However, we are seeing a shift to darker wood tones such as walnut and mahogany. Even the burl wood trend is now available in some interesting dark shades. Dark wood tones naturally convey a sense of sophistication, elegance, and mystery. When used wisely in a home, dark tones can really bring some interesting contrast.  

    If you are hesitant about going dark, we suggest going with a medium brown color. Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2025 happens to be Mocha Mousse, which is a rich and calming medium brown color.  

    This modern kitchen uses a blend of espresso and amber wood tones. – Woodmark Cabinetry

    DARK WOOD FLOORING 

    Like dark wood cabinets, dark wood flooring is also making a comeback, but not exactly in the way your grandpa or great grandpa’s house may have looked. Instead think clean, modern lines and matte finishes. Other than an opulent appearance, dark wood flooring is especially suitable for high traffic areas because it wears well and requires less frequent maintenance than light-colored floors.  

    This warm and cozy orange color scheme pairs perfectly with these dark wood floors. – Mojo Boutique

    BOLD AND BRIGHT COLORS  

    While Pantone’s Color of the Year is Mocha Mousse, which is creamy neutral brown, IKEA’s Color of the Year, Electric Blue, takes on a vastly different side of the spectrum. It is energetic and invites other colors such as sunny yellow and hot pink to join the party.  

    Overall, designers are experimenting with more vibrant colors in the design landscape. For those who are timid about colors, try introducing one or two statement colors as part of the mix, while leaving everything else neutral. Observe how the peachy orange color wakes up the grey bathroom on the right! 

    Two bathrooms. A color fiesta or a pop of color—the choice is yours! – Home Style Inspo and Fancy House Design 

    MAXIMALISM  

    Minimalism has undoubtedly been the go-to design style in recent years. It goes hand-in-hand with the sustainability movement and followers favor the idea of not consuming in excess. However, another trend has been happening simultaneously—antique, secondhand, and vintage shopping. According to a report from Chairish, this shopping sector has hit record highs in 2023 and 2024, with many people seeking to collect pieces from the past.  

    Having collections can easily lead to a maximalist design style. Think gallery walls filled edge-to-edge with art and statement rugs that do not shy away from the spotlight. While the simple definition of maximalism is “more-is-more,” it takes refinement and finesse to do maximalism correctly.

    The mix of ornate wood cabinets and modern furniture makes this maximalist space very intriguing. – Realtor.com

    TILED FLOORING 

    Hardwood or wood-look laminate floors are the safe design choice today. However, many homeowners have decided to not play it safe and to let their imagination roam free with colorful floor tiles. Floor tiles most often show up in bathrooms, mudrooms, and laundry rooms but they are now also being used in kitchens and living rooms in retro-inspired but refreshing ways. We love how the geometric mosaic tiles shown in the kitchen below look modern and artistic! 

    Attractive floor tiles add character to this otherwise minimal space. – Aparici.com 

    STAINLESS STEEL AND SILVER TONES 

    Gold and matte black finishes have both earned their place in home renovations in the past several years, but stainless steel and silver tones are making a comeback. Bare stainless steel and chrome was considered a top luxury in the Y2K era, but were gradually replaced with other finishes in more recent years.  
     
    With that said, many homeowners are now appreciating the tried-and-true nature of the finish and finding the industrial look of it to be desirable with luxury appliance brands such as Miele and Thermador elevating the material.  

    A popular trend is the mixing of metals to create an eclectic and unique look. For example, appliances can be stainless steel while your faucet is the focal point and is a matte black.  

    Silver tone hardware and fixtures often pair well with dark wood cabinets. – Legacy Kitchens

    COMFORT-FOCUSED DESIGN 

    The definition of modern design is evolving. Designers are thinking of ways to make their vision aesthetically pleasing without satisfying comfort. For example, seating with clean lines, while attractive, often lacks sufficient padding and ergonomics for comfort. However, relatively new, and comfort-driven companies such as Joybird (owned by Lay-Z-Boy) and Rove Concepts are aiming to change that.  

    In terms of home design, designers are using more curvatures, which not only change the appearance, but may increase comfort and safety in case contact is made or collisions happen with the furniture.  

    The Amelia Grand Chair by Joybird and Belia Sofa, by Joybird and Rove Concepts are comfortable and modern. – Joybird and Rove Concepts

    BRING IN THE NEW FOR THE NEW YEAR! 

    It is once again time for New Year’s resolutions! Make a home renovation project part of your to-do list this year. Remodeling a home is a rewarding experience and your only regret will be not doing it sooner! Talk to us and let us know what you need today!  

    Featured Image: Modern Kitchen by The Cabinet Doctors