Designers' Hidden Affection for 10 Debated Home Decor Trends
Design trends can stir up a lot of opinions, and some are more divisive than others. If you've ever been scrolling through your feed or flipping through a magazine, questioning, "Is this seriously a thing people are doing?", you're not alone. Trends range from clashing colors to unconventional materials, leaving both designers and homeowners divided. But remember, controversial doesn't necessarily mean bad. Embracing a trend deemed as "out" or "risky" by others can give you the freedom to pursue an interior style that represents you, no matter who else it appeals to. So, let's shake off that risk-averse attitude, shall we? Let's jump into the top 14 decor trends going out of style for 2025 and some alternative ideas that'll make your home shine.
1. Goodbye, Wall Tapestries!
Have you ever thought wall tapestries were reserved just for college students? Designer Jessica Jubelirer urges you to reconsider. "While many associate wall tapestries with dorm rooms, authentic tapestries are masterpieces filled with history, craftsmanship, and exquisite patterns that can have a significant impact on a space, thanks to their warmth and artistry," she explains.
2. Hello, Ornate Wood Furniture!
Over the years, dark wood furniture with intricate detailing has been on the decline. Some hesitate to embrace it, assuming it'll make their space feel old, dingy, and heavy. Designer Meghan Jay adores it, though, especially in small forms like a side table or game table. "Rich wooden accents not only add a sense of history and charm, but they also make a space feel warm, inviting, and full of character," Jay says.
3. My Love for Accent Walls!
Accent walls are polarizing, and designer Madelaine Mayer of AD:ROIT happens to love them. "Some may hate accent walls, but when done well, I believe they're a fantastic addition to a space," she says. "Take this accent wall in my living room, for instance - it's crammed with personality but could feel overwhelming or claustrophobic if installed everywhere."
4. Open Shelving: Yay or Nay?
Open shelving is often associated with modern homes, but it's a controversial topic. For some, it offers an opportunity to showcase treasured items; for others, it causes stress and extra cleaning. "People worry about dust or cleanability, but I'm a strong advocate for open shelving," says designer Grace Reina Sandoval. "It can turn your kitchen into a gallery displaying your glassware, dishware, and kitchen accessories, and styling it can be less formulaic than you might assume."
5. White Bouclé - a Trend worth Embracing
Bouclé fabric has been popular for years, but some say its time has passed or that it's been overused. Designer Lauren Carranza disagrees. "White Bouclé is timeless," she states. "The texture, coziness, and depth it adds to a simple white piece make it a worthwhile investment. Don't be afraid to embrace what you love, unapologetically."
6. Synthetic Rugs - Practical and chic
Rugs are significant investments and can be costly, leaving some homeowners hesitant to invest in them. Designer Mayer thinks synthetic rugs can be a smart solution, especially in complex urban spaces. "Even in shoeless homes, pets, kids, and city life will bring dirt into your home," Mayer explains. "An easy-to-maintain synthetic rug can tie your room together without breaking the bank."
7. Bold Kitchen Cabinetry - Embrace Your Style
If you're redoing your kitchen, your instinct might be to play it safe and stick with neutral tones. However, according to Sandoval, this cautious mindset could rob you of the opportunity to showcase your personality. "We use bolder or brighter kitchen cabinet colors often," she adds. "A neutral or white kitchen can be lovely, but don't shy away from color. You spend a lot of time in the kitchen, and color can make it feel fun and lively."
8. Fabric-Wrapped Appliances - A Quirky Twist
When it comes to kitchen appliances, you might think you have only two options - stainless steel or cabinet fronts. Designer Jubelirer goes for a different look. "I've had success creating unforgettable kitchens by wrapping refrigerators in charming, patterned fabrics," she says. "It adds a touch of luxury and warmth to the space."
9. Conversation Pits - Classic Elegance
The notion of conversation pits might give you flashbacks to the 1970s and '80s, but don't discount them yet. Designer Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors believes in them. "I love a conversation pit around a fireplace," she says. "It's reminiscent of Mad Men vibes, and if I were to build my dream home, a conversation pit would be on the top of my list."
10. Old-School Furniture - A Modern Twist
When you think of old-school furniture, you might envision an overstuffed, outdated recliner. However, Designer Taniya Nayak disagrees. "I just got a new reclining sofa, and no one can tell it's a recliner," she says. "These new, more disguised versions are just fine by me!"
Don't be afraid to embrace the trends that speak to you, and remember, design is subjective - there's no "right" or "wrong" way to create a stylish home. So, continue being uniquely you, and your home will reflect that beautiful individuality.
- Designer Jessica Jubelirer encourages a reconsideration of wall tapestries, emphasizing their historical and aesthetic value beyond their association with college dorm rooms.
- Designer Meghan Jay expresses her fondness for ornate wooden furniture, arguing that it lends history, charm, and warmth to spaces, even in small forms like side tables or game tables.
- Madelaine Mayer of AD:ROIT appreciates the impact of accent walls when done well, seeing them as a vibrant addition to a space that can add personality to a room without being overwhelming.
- Designer Grace Reina Sandoval takes a positive stance on open shelving, viewing it as a way to create a gallery-like display of treasured items in the kitchen, despite potential concerns about cleanliness.
- Designer Lauren Carranza strongly advocates for the timeless appeal of white Bouclé fabric, citing its texture, coziness, and depth as valuable attributes.
- Considering synthetic rugs as a practical and stylish solution for urban homes, designer Mayer finds them easy to maintain and effective in tying a room together without being overly expensive.
- Designer Grace Reina Sandoval encourages homeowners to embrace bolder kitchen cabinet colors for a more vibrant and personalized kitchen experience, as opposed to sticking with neutral or white tones.
- Designer Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors supports the use of fabric-wrapped appliances, claiming they add a touch of luxury and warmth to kitchens by creating an unforgettable visual impact.
- In defense of conversation pits, designer Jeanne Barber argues that they can create a charming, Mad Men-inspired atmosphere in the right setting and would make her dream home if given the chance.
- Designer Taniya Nayak endorses contemporary versions of old-school furniture, such as reclining sofas that blend seamlessly into modern interiors, avoiding any dated appearance.
