Style Pulse AW25 — Livingetc's Biannual Report on the Designs, Materials, Colors, and Shapes Set to Be Leading Interiors Next Season

The way we design our homes, or even curate our wardrobes, is often in response to wider societal shifts, reflecting a global mood or consensus that has a ripple effect down to sometimes, even the smallest of details. That’s why, as the global landscape feels uncertain in a variety of ways, it seems current interior shifts say we’re craving comfort and escapism. Be it nostalgia or a playful glimpse towards the future, either way we are wanting our homes to provide distraction and diversion from the world outside.

As oversized knits, contrasting textures, and unconventional silhouettes are making their presence known in recent fashions shows and presentations, this avant-garde, statement aesthetic is part of a pull towards futurism and one that is quickly becoming popular within interior design, as trend forecaster Jane Boddy reveals. Working on predictions for Pantone, Jane draws attention to a prediction called Futura, a style that blends modern luxury with cutting-edge technology to create spaces that feel both futuristic and elegant. “Think Paco Rabanne meets Zaha Hadid,” she comments, “it’s all about uber-glamorous futurism.”

With the advancement of AI also having an impact on interior design trends, it is allowing futurism to gain momentum. Referring to another of Pantone’s 2026 predictions titled Augmented, Jane continues. “It blurs the boundaries between digital and physical realms, combining surreal, futuristic, and AI-inspired aesthetics to create immersive, dreamlike experiences.” As exhibited at recent shows such as Maison & Object and Stockholm Furniture Fair, brands and designers are interpreting this within the home interiors sector, with abstract forms, sculptural silhouettes, and high-definition contrasts in color and texture becoming popular in a variety of applications. “It evokes a sense of comfort and playfulness while maintaining a modern, minimalist approach,” Jane says. “This visionary style embraces tactile engagement with smooth, cushioned textures and fluid, balloon-like shapes, inviting interaction and engagement of the senses, with a blend of abstract maximalism, sumptuous futurism, and a new psychedelic influence.”

While many are drawn to the bold metallics and other-worldly approach of this interiors shift, others are finding solace and comfort in the warm embrace of nostalgia. Be it dark brown furniture or the combination of grounded, earthy neutrals, the sensoriality of such color trends is bringing a contentment into homes that prioritizes our health and well-being. “Color has transcended its traditional role,” Jane adds. “It is now a powerful tool for emotional connection and well-being. This shift isn’t just a trend but a reflection of our collective need for calm, resilience, and joy.” With softer, soothing neutral hues fostering that mindfulness and balance, it is the playful, vibrant tones that offer moments of light-hearted connection. “This shift towards emotionally driven color palettes speaks to a world craving comfort, unity, and empowerment,” Jane continues. “Color now nurtures us on a deeper level, transforming spaces and products into experiences that connect, uplift, and reflect our shared human journey profoundly.”

Gemma Riberti, the Director of Interiors at WGSN, alludes to the continuing impact of cost and budget constraints. “This is driving an expectation from the home and its furnishings to work harder than ever and become more agile,” she states. “It must convey a ‘more-with-one’ value, for instance by embedding more functions into one, or elevating the everyday product with premium materials that enhance the durability and quality of the item. The value in something better made that will last longer justifies an increased price – you could call this shift a ‘timeless over trendy’ mindset.” Connected to costs, Riberti also refers to the growing focus on categories that have been traditionally often overlooked but are now getting a ‘design makeover’. Referring to them as ‘beautilities’ or ‘fun-tilities’, these include accessories such as the laundry basket, doormat, and even hardware. “These are all relatively easy ways to elevate the space and achieve a premium look and feel while containing costs,” she says.

Also noticing the desire for escapism, Charlie North, the Global VP of Interior Design at Aime Studios, remarks on the need for hopeful and inspiring design. “At the recent couture week, fashion houses such as Schiaparelli and Dior were presenting looks that are fantastical and illusory, designed to reject the ordinary and transport guests away — if only for a few minutes. Similarly in interiors, I think we will continue to see a movement towards an aesthetic that is highly individualistic and layered — bringing a richness and eclecticism that is crafted to spark joy and defy the mundane.”

Futurism

Boasting a space-age interiors aesthetic with a nod to modern technological advances, futuristic interiors reflect the desire for escapism. While difficult to predict how our homes might look a century from now, designers are having fun in pushing the boundaries of conventional design and how materials, silhouettes, and palettes might evolve moving forward.

With recent catwalks showcasing avant-garde, oversized silhouettes paired with unconventional materials, interior designers are also adopting an experimental approach. For instance, juxtaposing smooth metallics with extreme curvaceous silhouettes results in ‘other-worldly’ creativity that showcases our intrigue in imaginary, cosmic, or celestial worlds to take us away from daily routines and realities. “Bold statement pieces command attention, while intricate jewelry-like details evoke sophistication,” explains Jane Boddy when explaining how this idea manifests within the realm of interior design. “Fantasy-inspired elements and cosmic motifs infuse a sense of wonder, transporting interiors into a space-age future.”

With reflective surfaces, advanced lighting systems, and hues of neon green and purple coming together, the scheme is certainly one for the bold and courageous. “These combinations enhance the sense of space and light,” continues Jane, “crafting a mesmerizing atmosphere. Interactive surfaces seamlessly blend form and function while sustainable materials align with eco-conscious values.” While materiality and color are core elements of the futuristic look, it can also be implemented more subtly through integrated lighting that illuminates a space from an unexpected source or interactive appliances that alter the space through sound or scent. And, if the look is too ‘out there’, inject a touch of futurism through one piece of furniture or one type of material. For example, a stainless steel table, when paired with dark woods and neutral fabrics, offers a striking and sophisticated contrast.

Sensorial Design

As awareness grows around neurodiverse requirements and further emphasis is being placed on health and well-being, the desire for sensory-led environments is growing in both residential and commercial spaces. A recent study by US-based Bramlett Residential analyzing Instagram hashtag data stated that Sensorial Interior Design was the second most popular ahead of 2025.

“In general, wellness has grown into a paramount priority for consumers beyond spa-like bathrooms and hospitality-inspired interiors, as they become very well-researched into what this means for them and the impact the space has on emotional, mental and physical well-being,” says Gemma Riberti. Within family homes, the needs of each member can be different, and designers are now creating spaces that allow for both communal living and integrated areas which can provide a retreat away from busier zones. “It also applies to the restorative quality of products via their color, material, and finish,” Gemma continues. “Are they tactile, reassuring, inviting?”

While such meticulous attention to detail might feel a lot to consider within the redesign of a home, it can be included effectively just by ensuring there is a good mix of materials within a space or a balance of neutral hues that provide a calm ambiance in one room and bolder palettes in rooms where social activities take place. In paying more attention to the needs of all users through sensory design, our homes become convivial spaces for everyone to enjoy.

High Contrasts

Taking stimulus from the rise of AI interior design and the dreamlike concepts that are being produced digitally, contrasting forms, colors, and textures are becoming popular. While the rise of AI has challenged the design world, many creatives, such as Studio Snoop who recently developed Tilly — the world's first heart-centric Al design collaborator, are showcasing how it can be harnessed as a powerful tool to push the boundaries of interior design as we know it.

As designers adopt AI within their design process, it is resulting in furniture and spaces that merge stark contrasts seamlessly together, something that Jane Boddy says she also saw developing at recent shows such as Maison & Objet. “It feels very Verner Panton,” she says when looking at the design references behind the Augmented concept stated by Pantone. “It is inspired by art created with AI that pulls together color in full force and results in these high-level contrasts.”

Applying this to the home can take shape in various ways. Styling vivid hues together in one vignette, against a solid black or white backdrop, makes a strong statement, while pairing deep pile textured carpets and wallcoverings with smooth, glossy surfaces can also have a similar effect. Bomba by Milla Novo, a series of tufted wool carpets generated utilizing AI imaging software, demonstrates how impactful this can be when extreme colors and texture are combined and then styled within a minimalistic interior.

Playful Interiors

Gone are the days of strict design rules and a conventional approach. Finding joy through play is evident in both interior and product design this year as designers throw the rule book out the window and turn to unexpected shapes, materials, and color palettes.

“Play is being used as a tool for wellbeing that transforms stress into joy and relaxation,” explains Gemma Riberti. “The key is to bring up a smile. From playful interactions to cheeky hardware, spending is increasing for the ‘kidult’ consumer.” While there are many ways this can be actioned, it often begins with jovial accessories, like ceramics that mimic food or brightly colored trays, mirror frames, and textiles. “Keywords here are small, mood-boosting, and affordable,” she continues.

As seen at Stockholm Furniture Fair, many furniture designers are also incorporating an element of play within their inspired creations. Niklas Runesson’s burr walnut table and chair alluded to animal forms while Simon Skinner paired rich purple velvets with avant-garde silhouettes. Charlie North, the Global VP of Interior Design at Aime Studios, also states how a witty and theatrical approach to interiors is finding its place in hospitality environments and can provide inspiration for homeowners to experiment with their own ideas. “Our design concept for the upcoming SLS Barcelona, which is opening this year, combines the elegance and luxury of a grand hotel design with subversive details and unexpected moments. It brings us back to escapism where we create interiors that evoke interest and intrigue, encouraging people to engage with their surroundings in a new way that transcends the everyday.”

Saturated Neutrals

While the quiet luxury of decorating with neutrals has seen a resurgence in recent years, this color mood is now evolving into richer and deeper combinations of such hues. Helping to ground spaces, strong shades of terracotta, mocha, and amber are finding their place in large-scale applications with rooms often being color-drenched in one of these colors.

As homeowners seek to build on the sanctuary or ‘spa-like’ aesthetic, such shades offer warmth and can provide a calm retreat from the world outside. “Private interiors are becoming a safe haven from the overstimulating world of social media,” comments Bushra Mohamed, Director of Msoma Architects. “People are seeking calm colors and natural materials, free from excessive visual clutter.”

By bringing in these rich, earthy tones, it can easily elevate a neutral scheme while also providing a backdrop with which to pair a vast array of colors. When color drenching a space in a darker neutral, be sure to complement it with sheer linen fabrics or natural textiles to add depth and contrast into the room. And, with the desire for antiques and vintage items also continuing to rise, especially as we crave nostalgia, placing them amongst a mix of saturated neutrals can help the scheme to feel fresh and contemporary.

Personalized Cabinetry

Optimization is key as our homes seek to become more adaptable than ever. This is resulting in homeowners opting for bespoke cabinetry solutions — in bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, purpose-built to suit personal needs.

“We’re noticing a demand for seamless, integrated design solutions,” says Andrew Hays, the Creative Director of Cabbonet. “Features such as pocket door larders are popular as they allow homeowners to maximize kitchen storage without compromising on clean lines and the concept of the ‘invisible’ kitchen, where appliances and cabinetry blend into the background, has gained momentum as open plan living evolves.”

Going beyond aesthetics, the need for added functionality as our homes become smarter and integrated with technology is clear to see. “It is beyond the customary spice drawers and pull-out pantries, we are now designing drawer and cabinet interiors tailored to fit specific utensils, appliances, and specialty preparation and storage,” he continues, “such as baking cabinets, charcuterie storage, drawers for shellfish tools, or storage for exotic loose tea, to name a few.” As our lifestyle habits change, aligned to an increased focused on health and wellbeing, such personalization will only become more apparent. And, if a mini micro-greens laboratory is part of the future home, could bespoke cabinetry be the answer to stop it from turning into a clinical, sterile environment? We hope so!

Modular Kitchens

As lifestyles become more transient and the need for increased optimization from our spaces remains, studios are creating design-led solutions that allow such fixtures as modern kitchen cabinetry to easily move with us, adaptable for multiple configurations. And, as our environmental awareness increases, modularity is really becoming a core feature within the home.

“Sustainability remains a key driver in decision-making,” states Hayden Wood, the founder of Beams a new renovation app for homeowners. “We expect this to grow even stronger as clients seek ways to seamlessly reduce their impact.” While freestanding modular kitchen islands or cabinets have an obvious sustainable benefit, they are also changing the way we configure our kitchens aesthetically. “We see people looking to buy individual pieces of ‘proper’ furniture for their kitchen which can be combined with antiques to give a feeling of comfort and enduring style,” states Matt Podesta, the co-founder of design studio Huckleberry.

Also alluding to the rise in indoor-outdoor living, Matt states how such kitchen configurations can offer a seamless transition and allow us to find joy in reconnecting with nature while cooking outside in the warmer months. “Brands like The Newt, Toast and chefs like Julius Roberts are influencing a slower way of living, and all aspects of life including interiors and exteriors,” he says. “They speak to people's perception of authenticity and the idea of quality and properly hand-made furniture which will last for generations to come.” And, as brands allow us to adopt this flexibility within the functionality of a kitchen, it also means a one-time investment offers economic benefits as such features can even move house with us.

Exposed Webbing

As designers seek to do more with less, in a drive against overconsumption and reducing our material intake, many are turning back to traditional craft to highlight the beauty found in such an approach. As seen at the recent Stockholm Furniture Fair, exposed webbing is now being revitalized for seating in a contemporary way.

As we become more aware of poor consumption and production habits, the appreciation for raw materiality is returning. “We are increasingly rejecting mass-manufactured and short-lived possessions as we realize those methods of production and distribution are harming the planet, producing commodities that are not only soulless but symbols of exploitation,” says Nina Woodcroft, the founder of Nina+Co. “Increased awareness of our overconsumption is leading to a shift towards finding beauty in used things, items that have developed a patina, that bear scars, that hold memories and tell stories of a rich existence. New creations keep pace with this when they have been made slowly, mindfully, by hand, and with living or previously living materials.”

So, as the natural beauty of the webbing material is incorporated into the external aesthetic of the chairs, it allows users and viewers to consider its construction and understand the need to make and produce furniture more mindfully. And, thanks to the talented creativity of designers today, these chairs serve as a reminder that sustainability doesn’t have to mean a compromise on style or quality!

Teal

In conjunction with the futuristic appeal that is gaining popularity, teal is having a resurgence alongside rich purples and reflective metallics. Boasting a space-age aesthetic, when paired in such combinations, this versatile color is being used in both large- and small-scale formats.

“It is an incredible projector for other colors, making it easy to work with,” comments Jane Boddy. “Yet, you can take a turn and fashion it for a mid-century look too.” With such versatility allowing the color to transcend passing eras and styles, it leans into the futurism and nostalgia that current shifts are alluding to.

Designers are decorating with teal by color drenching rooms in multiple shades for a tonal effect, something that creates a bold impact — especially when used on the woodwork. And, in pairing it with wooden, vintage furniture, it allows a scheme to remain contemporary and modern. So, if you’re worried to commit to a color as your own style evolves and changes, teal could be your answer. In pairing it with different accessories, be it classic, contemporary, or futuristic, it allows you to experiment freely while remaining consistent as a backdrop that works with everything.

Communal Layouts for Hosting

The desire for communal living has become more popular in recent years, especially as the need for community and connection becomes more apparent and luxury co-living, rental developments present an elevated approach to such arrangements. Aligned also with the rise in private members' clubs and the desire for such curated interiors to take shape within our own homes, it has led to open-plan living spaces that promote and facilitate convivial entertaining.

“Hosting also closes the circle on cost-of-living constraints,” comments Gemma Riberti, “as younger demographics are now prioritizing hosting at home rather than going out.” This has led to a focus on table settings, communal seating areas, and layouts that can be more practical for larger numbers — even in compact homes.

While practicality is key, the need for opulence and sophistication comes hand-in-hand with it, as homeowners seek to mirror the ‘members club’ aesthetic within their own spaces. This is being seen in banquette seating, plush velvet upholstery with exposed piping, and bespoke low-level lighting solutions to provide a more intimate ambiance. These details, when paired together, result in an elevated entertaining space that feels more aligned to the extravagant settings of such venues, just without the expensive cocktails and overcrowding that many are being put off by. However, our advice is to start small: elevate the table setting with small indulgent touches such as napkin rings or cut crystal glassware. And always opt for lamplight to set the mood.

Livingetc's Style Pulse is the biannual report, looking forward to the biggest decorating moods for the seasons to come. You can check out previous and future Style Pulse articles to keep track of the ideas informing design for years past and present.