Just because you are seeing a certain interiors trend everywhere, doesn’t mean it’s sticking around. As an interiors editor in the know, I’ve spoken to my designer contacts to find out what to remove from your interiors scheme if you want to get ahead of the curve.
1. Open shelving
Once the darling of Pinterest-perfect kitchens, and for those who want to show off their prettiest dishes, handmade ceramics and curated spice collections, the open shelving aesthetic is on the wane as designers get tired of the upkeep. One misplaced mug or rogue cereal box and the whole illusion crumbles.
Open shelving is a balance between beauty and practicality. And one that doesn’t require a daily dusting ritual
Enter the new hybrid approach approved by designers: a mix of open and closed shelving that allows you to display your favourite pieces in the open section, while tucking away the less photogenic (or messier) kitchen essentials behind the closed cabinet doors. It’s a balance between beauty and practicality. And one that doesn’t require a daily dusting ritual. Phew.
Fluted or frosted glass-fronted cabinets are another great option as they offer a way to conceal clutter while still allowing key items to be on display. If your budget doesn’t stretch to a new glass-fronted unit, try frosted glass panels from meandmyglass.com, which can be cut to size to fit your existing cabinetry.
2. Colour-drenching
It’s finally time to step away from the paint tin. The once-bold look of dousing every surface, from walls to ceilings and skirting boards, in a single shade is now considered more dated than daring by those in the know.
Dousing every surface in a single shade is now considered more dated than daring by those in the know
Designers are shifting towards more balanced, curated colour palettes that allow for contrast, layering, and personality. Think feature skirting or doorways painted in a standout shade, (a perfect project for those leftover paint pots collecting dust in the garage) or mixing different tones within the same colour family, such as multiple shades of pink or green layered throughout a space to create impact without overwhelming the senses. Check out @picklesonpaint for inspo.
3. Trend-themed rooms
Have you ever fallen down the Pinterest rabbit hole and come out the other side convinced your living room needs to look like a coastal getaway, complete with nautical stripes, shiplap panelling, and mason jars filled with decorative rope and fairy lights?
Yep, us too.
Instead of a full-blown coastal-themed room, try pairing natural driftwood accents with contemporary furniture and textiles in neutral tones
And while it’s fun for a while, themed spaces tend to date quickly as trends shift, leaving your ‘coastal escape’ looking more kitschy than classic. The trick is to blend elements you love from different styles. So instead of a full-blown coastal-themed room, try pairing natural driftwood accents with contemporary furniture and textiles in neutral tones. It gives a subtle nod to the seaside without going full beach house.
4. Oversized pendant lights
The plight of the “big light” is finally coming to an end. While oversized pendants may add a statement touch, designers agree they don’t always contribute to the overall ambiance of a room. They can cast awkward shadows, limit visibility, and often end up as dust collectors. Not exactly practical for busy, lived-in spaces.
Instead of two oversized pendants above a kitchen island, try three smaller, streamlined ones in warm finishes like brushed brass or matte black for a more timeless and functional look
The new design direction leans toward understated, layered lighting schemes. Think smaller pendants paired with recessed lights, wall sconces, and floor lamps to create a flexible, ambient glow. Instead of two oversized pendants above a kitchen island, try three smaller, streamlined ones in warm finishes like brushed brass or matte black for a more timeless and functional look. Pooky.com sells a wide selection.
5. Accent walls
It’s a trend that’s been recycled and reinvented more times than we care to count, and it often just looks like you haven’t finished decorating the room. Thankfully, there are far more creative ways to add personality or create a focal point without reverting to this overdone cliché.
Designers suggest wallpapering or painting just the upper or lower portion of a wall for a fresh twist on the accent wall concept
Designers suggest wallpapering or painting just the upper or lower portion of a wall for a fresh twist on the accent wall concept. Or, if you’re set on making a statement, why not turn your attention upward and make the ceiling the feature instead?
6. Smart tech
Let’s face it – it’s not that smart, is it? We wanted convenience: voice-activated lighting, ovens that think for us, wall art that changes every few minutes. Instead, we got a pile of instruction manuals and a lot of agro. And let’s be honest, smart tech is only good when it actually works.
Opt for tabletop gadgets that can be swapped out easily as tech evolves, so neither you or your decorating scheme get left behind
The key is to avoid giving these devices a permanent place in your home. Opt for tabletop gadgets that can be swapped out easily as tech evolves, so neither you or your decorating scheme get left behind. We love the smart coffee maker at xbloom.com as it looks great whilst providing barista-level coffee.
7. Scalloped everything
These playful, rounded edges resembling the curves of a seashell have adorned our bedspreads, mirrors, and soft furnishings for a little too long. Now, it’s all starting to give off student flat vibes.
Designers advise opting for softer shapes that feel less predictable than scallops. Think irregular waves or subtly rounded edges that add warmth without feeling overly cutesy
If you still love a curve but want to keep things current, designers advise opting for softer shapes that feel less predictable than scallops. Think irregular waves or subtly rounded edges that add warmth without feeling overly cutesy. The new Arjan Van Dal vase collection at The Conran Shop is topping my wish list.