What are the key interior design trends for 2025?
Garreth van Niekerk and Alan Hayward, the new Executive Creative Directors of Decorex Africa, give us the inside track on the year ahead.
11/12/2024
What global influences will impact decor in 2025?
Garreth: In 2025, we’re seeing a shift away
from globalised, one-size-fits-all trends
towards more regionally distinct designs. The
trend will be towards cultural specificity.
Whether it’s a home in Africa or a hotel in
Asia, the design will reflect the unique
aesthetics of that place, celebrating local
traditions and stories.
Alan: It’s a time
for celebrating identity. Globalisation has
opened the door to a mix of cultural influences,
but people are increasingly embracing their
local heritage. Expect to see interiors that
blend personal and cultural histories, turning
spaces into true reflections of their owners’
roots and experiences.
What materials and textures will be popular?
Garreth:
They’ve been popular for a while, but don’t
expect to see less of tactile textures like
bouclé and felt - a gateway drug to warmth and
personality in any space. There’s also a strong
move toward handcrafted items that tell a story.
With maximalist design gaining momentum, we’ll
also see reflective, shiny surfaces making an
appearance, offset by traditional materials like
wood, which will help balance things out.
Alan: Handmade, tactile fabrics are big.
It's about creating spaces that feel personal
and lived-in. We're seeing a greater
appreciation for pieces that bring together
various textures, from natural woods to plush
fabrics, telling a larger narrative about
culture, history, and design.
What colour palettes are predicted to dominate interior design in 2025?
Garreth: We’re
anticipating a shift towards bold, deep colours
- think vibrant tones that reflect a maximalist
attitude, paired with richer, more earthy
neutrals. We’re also moving away from the
minimalist whites and beiges toward a more
eclectic mix, with taupes and browns setting a
warm foundation for more expressive colour.
Across the continent, you’ll also see these
global colour trends interwoven with more local
trends but paired perfectly with contextual
influences, creating interiors that are rich in
story and spirit.
Alan: We’re also seeing
colour palettes tailored for specific
environments. For instance, Plascon’s 2025
colour trend predictions highlight not just
single colours on the radar for 2025, but sets
of colours designed for different settings. What
works in a professional space isn’t always right
for a personal home, and vice versa. It’s about
embracing versatility and depth in your design
choices.
How will hybrid work models influence office space design?
Garreth:
Hybrid work models will continue to push office
spaces into becoming more communal and flexible.
The private office space is being replaced by
shared areas that are adaptable and can serve
multiple purposes like meeting rooms, social
spaces, or creative hubs. It's all about
maximising the utility of each square meter.
Alan: Offices are evolving to become more
dynamic, to create spaces that foster
collaboration and connection. Modular and
movable furniture will be key to transforming a
space from casual to formal, depending on the
needs of the moment.
What are the trends in co-working spaces and their aesthetic evolution?
Garreth: Co-working spaces are
evolving to become more professional and
durable. The aesthetic is becoming more
sophisticated as businesses expect these spaces
to cater to high-end clients. Whether it’s a
sleek minimalist style or a vibrant expression
of diversity, co-working spaces are a reflection
of the companies using them.
Alan:
Co-working spaces need to strike a balance
between function and aesthetics. As these spaces
cater to a diverse range of users, the design
needs to be adaptable, whether that’s through
minimalist layouts or a more eclectic, vibrant
atmosphere.
How will outdoor furniture evolve?
Garreth: As we face more extreme
weather, outdoor furniture will need to be
ultra-durable. Materials that can withstand
heat, rain and wear will be critical. We're
excited to see innovation in outdoor textiles
that perform better in extreme conditions,
making multifunctional outdoor furniture both
stylish and practical.
Alan: The future
of outdoor furniture is all about durability and
adaptability. As weather conditions change, so
must the materials we use. We’ll see more
innovation in materials that last longer,
require less maintenance, and look great in any
environment.
Van Niekerk and Hayward will
be leading the charge in transforming Decorex
Cape Town and Joburg in 2025. For more
information on Decorex Africa and these events
visit www.decorex.co.za.