There’s a shift happening in interior design that feels both fresh and familiar. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re seeing a beautiful return to intentional, thoughtful spaces that prioritize both sophistication and livability. Scout & Nimble founder and lead designer, Jessie Bodine, shares the emerging trends that she’s excited about this year.

1.Rich Colors Make Their Mark
You know how we used to reserve bold colors just for accent walls? Well, I’m thrilled to see that changing. Saturated hues taking center stage in entirely new ways—from upholstered furniture to built-in cabinetry. I’m talking about warm burgundies, classic navy, deep forest greens, and rich chocolate browns. These colors aren’t just making statements; they’re creating environments that feel both grounding and sophisticated.

I’ve been particularly inspired by designers like April Tomlin and Sean Anderson. What I love about their approach is how they balance these rich colors with warm wood tones, adding natural texture and visual warmth to create rooms that feel both current and timeless.

2. The Rise of “Quiet Luxury”
If there’s one trend that I believe perfectly captures where interior design is heading in 2025, it’s what I’m calling “quiet luxury.” Think of it as the design equivalent of a perfectly tailored blazer—it’s not about flashy labels or trendy pieces, but rather about quality, craftsmanship and enduring style.

I often tell my clients to think of it like building a capsule wardrobe. You invest in that classic blazer or timeless leather bag because you know it will serve you well for years to come. The same principle applies to your home. Yes, investing in a beautifully crafted armoire or classic arm chair might seem like a bigger commitment upfront, but these pieces will evolve with your space and stand the test of time.

3. Pleats & Patterns
I’m also thrilled to see the charming revival of pleated fabrics being used in fresh, unexpected ways. We’re seeing delicately pleated skirts on powder room vanities, gathered fabric concealing kitchen sink cabinets and rouched panels behind glass doors. These thoughtful touches add layers of sophistication while providing practical solutions for privacy and storage—both beautiful and purposeful.

Not a fan of pleated fabrics? Let’s talk about patterns on your walls instead. I’m seeing wallpaper used in such exciting ways right now—from wrapping entire rooms in rich patterns to adding unexpected touches inside glass cabinets. This renewed embrace of wallpaper speaks to something I’ve always believed: Our spaces should have personality.

4. Embracing Dedicated Spaces
Perhaps the most significant shift I’m seeing is the return to more defined, purpose-driven rooms. The era of completely open floor plans is evolving into something more nuanced, with formal dining rooms reclaiming their status as centers for hospitality and connection.

In the kitchen, I’m loving how designers are embracing beautiful closed designs that incorporate elements like plate racks and butler’s pantries. If you’re looking for inspiration, I highly recommend checking out the work of Basic Projects and deVOL Kitchens. Their designs perfectly showcase one of my favorite aspects of this trend—how to display inherited china patterns or vintage finds that tell your family’s story.

5. Pocket Offices
One of the more charming trends of the upcoming year is the “pocket office.” These efficient workspaces serve as command centers for daily life and are often located near the kitchen. Here’s a tip I often share with clients: opt for a side chair or dining chair rather than a traditional office chair. This way, your workspace can easily transform when needed.

This movement toward defined spaces extends to storage as well. These intimate spaces often do double duty with a vanity or desk, creating yet another opportunity for a pocket office that seamlessly blends function with beauty. It’s a perfect example of how modern homes can maintain separation between spaces while maximizing functionality.

6. The Art of Living Well in Any Space
Perhaps this most inspiring trend for 2025 isn’t about specific design elements at all—it’s about embracing and elevating the space you have right now. Whether you’re working with a cozy galley kitchen or a compact primary suite, I’m seeing (and loving) a growing movement toward making thoughtful design choices that enhance your daily life, rather than waiting for that “someday” dream home.

It’s about creating spaces that tell your story and feel lived-in rather than staged. I’m consistently inspired by designers like Steven Gambrel and Anna Hewitson, who excel at creating rooms that feel both polished and personal – spaces that are beautiful precisely because they reflect the lives lived within them.

Scout & Nimble is a retail site and blog that aims to make expert design accessible to all. Follow at blog.scoutandnimble.com.