One design trend I'm loving right now? Brown: in all its cozy, earthy glory. After a decade of cold grays dominating interiors, brown feels like the natural choice as we're all craving a little more cozy. I've layered it into my own home through vintage rugs, warm wood tones, and textured pillows. It instantly makes a space feel lived-in and warm, like something that evolved over time rather than being assembled overnight. Even if you're not ready to commit to full-on brown, adding natural mid-tone wood pieces is a great gateway because it brings in that same warmth without feeling heavy.
I'm hooked on using veined quartzite as a statement surface, particularly Taj Mahal and Perla Venata, and I just installed a waterfall-edge island in my own kitchen to showcase it. The subtle gold and gray veining delivers the drama of marble without the maintenance headaches, and the stone's natural translucence picks up under-counter LED strips so the island almost glows at night. By carrying the slab down both sides, the veining flows like a continuous ribbon, turning the island into functional art that anchors the whole room. What I love most is the blend of practicality and elegance: it stands up to hot pans, kids' science projects, and the occasional spilled Cabernet while still looking like a bespoke centerpiece.
Textured walls. Not in the old "popcorn ceiling" sense, but in a more subtle, modern way—think limewash, plaster finishes, or even paint techniques that add depth without screaming for attention. We recently used a soft limewash finish in our dining area. It's a warm gray with just enough variation to give the walls that natural, lived-in look. No art needed—it became the focal point on its own. The texture catches the light differently throughout the day, so the room never feels flat or one-note. It brings character and dimension without needing bold colors or busy patterns. There's something calming about it—it feels like a quiet backdrop, not a loud statement. Plus, it pairs beautifully with natural wood, stone, or mixed metals. And honestly? It hides imperfections way better than flat paint. Little scuffs and dings just kind of blend in, which is a win if you've got kids, pets, or a high-traffic space. It's timeless, but still feels fresh—like a nod to old-world design with a modern twist.
One design trend gaining strong momentum, especially among homeowners in the South Bay, is the shift toward warm, earthy tones. Think terracotta, soft olive, clay, sandstone, and muted taupes. These colors are evident on everything from feature walls to cabinetry and exterior trims, and the impact they create is subtle yet powerful. As a painting contractor in the South Bay, California, I've noticed that more clients are moving away from cooler tones like gray and bright white, which can sometimes feel sterile, especially in homes with a lot of natural light. Earth tones, by contrast, reflect the warmth of the California sun and blend beautifully with the landscape, especially in areas where homes are surrounded by sand, palms, or drought-friendly native plants. Beyond aesthetics, this palette also aligns with a bigger shift toward comfort and nature-inspired living. Many homeowners are looking for ways to make their spaces feel calm and grounded after years of minimalism and sharp modern lines. Earthy colors offer just that, they're timeless, versatile, and help soften the overall mood of a space. In practical terms, these tones are very forgiving. They hide scuffs, wear, and daily mess far better than pure whites, making them a smart choice for busy homes with kids or pets. We've used them in everything from living rooms to bathrooms and even exterior stucco projects, and the results are always well received.
One design trend I'm really loving right now is the resurgence of layered, textural bedding—think natural linens, cotton gauze, and waffle weaves paired together to create depth and comfort. In my own home, I've embraced this by mixing a stonewashed linen duvet cover with an oversized cotton knit throw and waffle-textured euro shams in earthy, muted tones. What I love most about this trend is how it brings a relaxed, tactile richness to the bedroom. It's effortlessly cozy but still feels elevated, and it allows for personal expression through texture rather than bold color or pattern, which aligns perfectly with my preference for calming, grounded spaces.
Hello, One design trend I'm loving—and personally embracing—is the rise of textured imperfection, especially through the use of reclaimed stone. In my own home, I replaced a sterile marble fireplace with a centuries-old French limestone mantel, rich with patina and history. What I love most is the contradiction: in an age of sleek minimalism and machine-made precision, this raw, weathered material adds unmatched soul. Clients often chase symmetry and uniformity, but I've found that true luxury lies in the one-of-a-kind. Reclaimed elements—like antique fountains, aged flooring, or hand-carved surrounds—are not just sustainable, they're stories embedded in architecture. Particularly in warmer regions, homeowners are extending this organic aesthetic outdoors—stone courtyards, garden pavilions, and even cobblestone driveways. It's not about nostalgia—it's about grounding modern design in something real. Best regards, Erwin Gutenkust CEO, Neolithic Materials https://neolithicmaterials.com/
One design trend I'm particularly enthusiastic about right now is the elevated integration of indoor-outdoor living, especially with a focus on seamless transitions and bringing natural elements into the built environment. It's not just about a sliding glass door anymore; it's about making those spaces feel truly continuous and equally refined. In my own home, I've incorporated this by transforming a previously defined dining area into an extension of our patio lounge. We installed large format, low-profile sliding glass doors that pocket completely, creating an uninterrupted flow from the interior living space to a covered outdoor seating area. Inside, the flooring transitions from a polished concrete to an equally smooth, large format porcelain tile that matches the interior tone, blurring the lines. Crucially, we extended a linear gas fireplace from the interior wall to the outdoor patio, clad in the same natural stone, providing a consistent visual anchor. We also brought in oversized, low-maintenance desert-adapted planters with sculptural cacti and agaves right inside the entryway, echoing the natural landscape outside.
One design trend we're absolutely loving right now is Japandi—the fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian warmth. It's clean, calming, and deeply functional, which makes it perfect not just for clients but for our own homes too. I've personally brought elements of this style into my space with natural wood finishes, open shelving, muted colour palettes, and simple lines that make the room feel grounded yet welcoming. What I love most about Japandi is that it doesn't try too hard—it's quiet, purposeful design. There's no clutter, no unnecessary flash—just honest materials and thoughtful detail. It's a trend, yes, but one that feels timeless, this style gives you breathing room. It's not just about how it looks—it's about how it makes you feel when you walk in. And let's be honest, we could all use a bit more calm in our day.
"Loving This Design Trend? So Am I—Here's How It Shows Up in My Home" Hi there! These days, the most elegant rooms say less, but mean more. I'm Shelly Spence, and I curate contemporary art and fine jewelry at Grace Renee Gallery in Carefree, Arizona. I've spent years helping collectors and design lovers find pieces that truly speak to their aesthetic and bring beauty into their spaces. The Trend I'm Loving: Quiet Luxury Right now, I'm loving the quiet luxury trend. It's all about embracing understated elegance—pieces that don't scream for attention but draw you in with their craftsmanship, texture, and intention. In my own home, I've leaned into this by mixing organic materials with refined accents. I have a charcoal-toned velvet chaise in my living room, paired with a vintage travertine side table. The contrast between the soft, moody texture of the velvet and the quiet warmth of natural stone brings a sense of balance. It's quietly elegant and thoughtfully placed—just like the art I live with and love. Where I See It Professionally At the gallery, I find myself gravitating toward artists and designers whose work reflects the same values—pieces that reward stillness and quiet attention. Increasingly, my clients are seeking pieces that feel meaningful, not just decorative. They're drawn to works that hold presence without overpowering a space. What I Love About This Trend What I love most is the sense of calm it brings. Quiet luxury doesn't chase trends. It lingers. It gives space for thoughtful details to shine. What I find most compelling is how it elevates everyday living without excess—there's a sense of effortlessness and depth that feels both personal and lasting. Whether it's a piece of art or a handmade gold cuff, the value is in how it's made and how it makes you feel. Quiet luxury feels like a whisper, but it stays with you long after you've left the room. Warmly, Shelly Spence Curator, Grace Renee Gallery gracereneegallery.com
Currently, I am obsessed with bold, monochrome palettes. One of my bedrooms features deep emerald green walls, trim, and ceilings with velvet accents and curated vases, completing the room. These bold choices create dramatic yet cohesive spaces that feel vibrant and alive. What I find most remarkable about this trend is how it brings a room together and allows for finer textures and craftsmanship, such as a handwoven antique rug, to take center stage. Using a singular tone with metallic or neutral accents invokes a timeless elegance while assuring warmth and inviting comfort. This trend makes it easier for designers to display their personality while showcasing timeless elegance in their work.
Right now, I'm loving the neutral design trend, especially whites, soft greens, and dried wisteria. It gives such a light and airy feel and blends beautifully with any color palette. In my own home, I've brought in those tones using soft florals in whites, blush, and a peachy orange. I even painted two accent walls black, added black curtains and frames, and balanced it all with antique mirrors and a hand-painted cabinet that adds a touch of drama and elegance. One of my favorite pieces, an expensive dresser, is currently doubling as my daughter's toy chest, which keeps things stylish while hiding the clutter. I also like mixing open shelving with closed ones so I can display decor while hiding everyday mess. This whole look has completely transformed my space.
One design trend I'm loving right now is the growing focus on accessible, child-centered bookshelves. As a father of five, I've seen how empowering it is when kids can reach for their own books, explore stories on their terms, and feel like their space invites learning rather than just tolerates it. We recently swapped out a tall, traditional bookshelf in our family room for a lower, front-facing design that lets our younger kids see the covers of their favorite books and grab them without help. It completely changed the dynamic of how they interact with reading. What I love about this trend is that it blends functionality with emotional intelligence. It's about designing with a child's experience in mind. A front-facing shelf puts emphasis on visual engagement. The covers draw them in like a gallery of stories waiting to be picked, rather than spines hidden in a row. The lower height sends a quiet but powerful message: this is your space, these books are yours to explore. Incorporating this into our home wasn't a huge structural change, but the effect has been outsized. Our kids spend more time reading without prompts, more time trading books between siblings, and more time organizing their own little collections. It feels like a small way to say, "Your curiosity matters here," which is a value we try to build into every part of our home life. The best part? It grows with them. As they get older, we can rotate in new books or swap it out for another accessible layout. It's a reminder that design can be both beautiful and deeply personal, especially when it meets someone at their level—literally.
As people look to make their homes more efficient, myself included, we are seeing a rise of multipurpose furniture. This is furniture that serves more than one function and help make the most of every square foot. In fact, looking at the data, I've seen a 66% increase in searches related to 'sectional', 'storage' and 'smart home'. This shows that in the market there's clearly a trend towards a more functional home. In my home, I've recently added a bed frame with built-in drawers underneath, and a lift-top coffee table that doubles as a small desk. It's amazing how much more functional a room feels when furniture works a little harder. I love that it's practical without sacrificing style. Especially in smaller spaces, you get to stay organized without feeling like you're giving up comfort or design. It makes home feel more intentional like every item has a purpose and a place.
Large-scale woven fabric wall art has been an eye-catcher to me, in particular, oversized textile wall art, including large-scale woven art, introduces depth and softness to an area. Fabric on a wall is something earthy. It has the ability to absorb sound, fracture hard surfaces, and has a slight warmth to it that framed prints lack. I began using them in our holiday lets as a means of providing texture without congesting the walls with uninspired pieces of art and now I have one above my own bed at home. It is roughly 120 by 90 centimeters and is woven in hand-dyed wool of dull greens and ochres that reflect the hills beyond our window. The best thing about this trend is that it is so adaptable. You may do all-out proclamation with giant colorfulness and pattern or stay soothing with normal tones and coarser materials. I got one woven by a native artist. She wrought at snatches of linen that was left over of one of our Grasmere undertakings. It was about not matching everything in the room but to introduce something tactile that has a story and place. Walls can be texturized to give the home a complete look in a place such as the Lakes where weather conditions tend to keep us indoors.
My family recently undertook a massive home improvement project. We took the better part of the past year designing the new spaces, with the most attention toward our favorite room, the kitchen. Here we all contributed ideas, including the kids. They wanted their own drawer, for homework items and easy to lose little trinkets. My husband and I focused naturally more on the chef's area. One delightful surprise was the opportunity to incorporate many of the latest gadgets, from pull-out trash cans to everything including the "kitchen sink". The one design trend that seems to have overtaken many others this year is the way our very sharp, often very large, kitchen knives, scissors and hand graters are stored. My young children were my first motivator to find a way to secure these tools, out of view, understanding that they need to be relatively easily accessible, and protected to maintain their quality. My designer highlighted a new feature: a soft-close pull out cabinet that contains a universal knife insert. This organizer contains a large quantity of flexible plastic fiber rods that securely hold the knives upright, separated from each other, with the full blades inserted, only leaving the handles exposed. It is now a pleasure to reach for a knife, to return the clean knife to its rightful spot and to close the drawer, creating a safer environment for my kids.
A design trend that I have fully embraced into my home is the freestanding bathtub. I installed one in my ensuite last year. It is a white solid surface tub with a flat white finish that measures about 300 millimeters back from the rear wall. I did that call on purpose because I wanted it not to be boxed in. The surrounding wall is tiled floor to ceiling with a soft stone texture, but the tub is left completely clear. No shelves, no built-ins and no clutter. The thing that I love about this trend is how the bathtub shapes the entire atmosphere of the space without needing anything around it. It is not overdesigned but it still appears architectural I have chosen to have a soft oval rather than a sharp rectangle to ensure that the walls will smooth out the sharp angles of the floor and the vanity. The installer put the waste line underneath the slab during the construction which left me with the freedom to place it anywhere. It eliminated the need of back-to-wall installations that were ordinarily used. The bathtub cost just under $1,800 and I would choose it again without any second thought. It is sculptural, easy to clean and it shifts the entire room from functional to inviting without adding maintenance or clutter. This is why I always recommend it to clients who are building from scratch or reworking layouts with some open space to work with.
I have been exposed to exposed structural materials, particularly, concrete ceilings and uncooked timber beams. It provides the place with this incomplete clarity that is more truthful than the sterile surfaces that most new constructions imply. On the home front, I exposed some of the poured concrete ceiling that had been covered with a dropped drywall ceiling in the dining room. It consumed three weekends, a grinder, three gallons of sealant and much cleanup but it transformed the energy of the room completely. What attracts me to it is the difference between the harsh material and all other things around it. The remaining space in the room is neutralized through linen curtains, old fashioned lights and a 12 foot oak table with mismatched chairs. The naturalness adds a touch of everything that does not have to be hard to make it look good. I enjoy the fact that it is not posing. No plaster, no polish, what it is. No drywall or trim concealing anything and all materials are honest.
One of the design techniques that I am currently embracing is the prevalence of textured and less-finished-looking accent walls again, particularly expressed through thin brick and stone veneer. It adds warmth, personality, and timelessness to any area and is a terrific method to make a visual impact without being dependent on a dramatic increase in color or a repelling pattern. I have used this style in my own house and made an accent wall in the dining room with whitewashed brick veneer. It makes the room look rustic-modern, mixing ease and sophistication. The main thing I adore in this trend is that, in a way, it adds texture and quietness at the same time, it creates a statement, but still, it matches perfectly with minimalist or contemporary style.
One design trend I'm loving right now is the vintage revival, especially rich textiles, ornate details, and that cozy, layered charm that feels collected over time. I've been leaning hard into warm wood tones, antique golds, and deep, rich colors. My bedroom and closet are full on vintage Victorian. Think velvet, lace, heavy ornate glass, 100 year old books and romantic lighting. I love how this trend invites more personality into a space. It's a beautiful switch from the cold, sterile grey-and-white aesthetic we saw for years. Now it's about telling a story, mixing eras, and making your home feel lived in and loved. For me, it's about creating spaces that feel like an embrace and tells a story.
LED backlit mirrors have become one of my favorite design elements in bathroom renovations. I love how they combine sleek aesthetics with everyday function. The light from these smart-tech mirrors create an adjustable glow and a high-end vibe while also being incredibly practical for morning routines. We added one to our home, and it completely transformed the mood of the space. It feels like stepping into a boutique spa every time the lights come on. We also use them consistently in our property flips because they deliver a reliable "wow" moment during house tours. Buyers almost always pause to comment on the mirror. It's a simple feature, but the reaction is consistent. Potential homebuyers see it and instantly associate the home with luxury and attention to detail. That kind of emotional impression on buyers is hard to beat.