As we approach 2025, the consensus among design experts is clear: some popular home colors of recent years are expected to decline. Business Insider consulted several color experts to understand which shades will be phased out and why.
In the past year, shades of gray became ubiquitous in interior design, often finding their way into flooring and cabinetry. However, this trend may fade, according to Vanessa Helmick, an established interior designer. She suggests that gray overuse makes spaces feel inorganic and cold. Helmick predicts that the appeal of gray will decrease as people turn to more natural and warm hues.
Cool colors such as slate blue and taupe are seeing a decline in popularity as well. Paula Kennedy, a certified architectural color consultant, notes a shift towards warm colors, especially in areas with predominantly gray weather conditions, like the Pacific Northwest. She suggests the gradual move to warmer shades reflects a desire to create more comforting and inviting spaces.
Sage green, once a staple in home design, is also likely to become less common. Kennedy believes deeper, richer shades will replace sage as people seek more versatile and visually engaging colors. She argues that colors like watery turquoise offer greater flexibility and harmony when paired with other shades.
White, a color synonymous with purity, is losing its charm due to its tendency to appear harsh and quickly worn, particularly when used excessively on furniture. Color expert Amy Wax advises that stark white furnishings can fade and lose their appeal over time, prompting a shift towards softer tones.
Furthermore, the black-and-white design scheme is becoming less desirable. While initially considered elegant, Kennedy points out that such a palette lacks the coziness desired by many homeowners today. She asserts that the current psychological climate gravitates towards warm and comforting environments, reducing the appeal of stark black-and-white contrasts.
Nautical blue, a traditional favorite in New England, is also on the decline. Helmick notes that the nautical blue-and-white theme can be limiting, making it difficult to freshen up spaces. With the real-estate market slowing down, more people are focusing on updating their homes with warm tones that enhance a sense of coziness.
Mustard yellow and olive green, once regarded as quirky and unique, are expected to decrease in popularity. According to Wax, the demand for more calming and subdued colors is growing. She believes that people are seeking hues that are easygoing and aesthetically pleasant.
Lastly, bright yellows and teals, celebrated for their playful nature in 2024, may see reduced use in home decor. Wax warns that these vibrant colors can seem harsh and overpowering, pushing homeowners to select softer hues that are easier to complement.
In conclusion, as we step into 2025, the preference for color schemes in home design is evidently shifting. Experts agree that there is a move towards warm, comforting tones that harmonize with a wide range of design elements. These changes reflect a broader desire to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also cozy and inviting. To stay ahead of the trend, homeowners should consider these expert recommendations when planning future renovations.
Source: Businessinsider
