As another year ends, I find myself reflecting on the incredible interior design projects I had the privilege to undertake in 2024. From kitchens and bathrooms to living spaces and laundries, one common theme stood out across all these projects: the unique wishes and needs of each client, which I believe will shape the design direction for 2025. While some might call these emerging "trends," I see them more as lasting shifts toward personalisation, functionality and timeless design - far from fleeting fads.
Embracing Fresh, Inspired Design Beyond Minimalism
One recurring request I heard from multiple clients this year was: “I don’t want T*** B*** R**** - that is not my vibe.” Not once, but twice, clients emphasised their desire to steer clear of the traditional blank, white-on-white minimalist palette. They weren’t interested in playing it safe with a neutral aesthetic that appeals to the masses. Instead, they craved spaces infused with boldness, personality and character.
For one client, this translated into a stunning bathroom design featuring Terra Rossa marble, a rich, earthy material that adds warmth and depth. Incorporating unique textures and natural tones, we created a space that reflects their personal style while maintaining timeless elegance.
For another client, beautiful brown concrete basins were chosen to tie in with lustre bronze tapware and a feature indigenous artwork from Arnhem Land.
Designing for a Low-Maintenance Lifestyle
Another sentiment expressed by a client was: “I want something that’s easy to maintain.” Let’s face it, while a picture-perfect, showroom-style home might seem appealing (to some - not me) in theory, real life calls for something more practical. A home should be a place to enjoy, not an ongoing cleaning project.
With this in mind, we selected materials and finishes that balance beauty with practicality. One standout solution was using a Dolomite integrated benchtop for the client’s bathroom vanity, ensuring a seamless and easy-to-clean surface. This approach not only elevated the overall look but also provided the functionality they needed for a busy lifestyle.
Spaces with a Personal Touch
Personalisation emerged as a strong priority, with one client explicitly stating: “I want something for me.” For this client, we crafted a rich, bold, and luxurious bathroom featuring pinks, marble, microcement and rich woods. The result was a space that felt like their personal sanctuary, exuding individuality and elegance.
I am the biggest advocate for living in a space that YOU want to live in, now. Some things make my heart sad, and one of them is when people are wanting to sell their home, so invest in a renovation to make their living environment more enjoyable, user friendly, etc. Now I understand that sometimes you may not financially be able to undertake those renovations earlier, but if you could have, imagine having lived in your home, the way you had wanted to.
A hard truth, is that often you may renovate a bathroom or kitchen for selling purposes, but the renovation isn't to the buyers aesthetic, lifestyle or otherwise, and they will immediately make plans to re-do all of that work and expenditure.
My advice for homeowners, is to live in a space that YOU want to live in, now. And unless you are selling in the immediate future, design a space you know you will love and enjoy.
For another client, the design brief was simple yet powerful: “I love holidaying down South, and I want my home to reflect this.” We translated this wish into a relaxed, coastal-inspired interior, incorporating soft blues, natural textures and warm timber tones. The result was a design that evoked the serene, laid-back vibe of their favourite getaway spot.
Embracing Colour and Bold Choices
Gone are the days when clients opted for muted, neutral tones by default. Many sought out colour, texture, and interest to make their homes truly stand out. One client’s directive was clear: “I don’t want bland; I want colour.” This inspired us to experiment with a beautiful blue for their vanity statement piece that added vibrancy without sacrificing sophistication.
Whether it was a rich jewel-toned feature wall, playful patterned tiles, or colourful custom cabinetry, each project became a celebration of individuality.
Direction of Interior Design 'Trends' for 2025
As I reflect on these client-driven insights, it’s clear that the future and direction for 2025 of interior design lies less with 'trends', but more so in creating spaces that are as unique as the people who live in them. I see a continued emphasis on:
Unique, personality-filled designs that go beyond conventional aesthetics to create truly distinctive spaces.
Durable, stylish materials and finishes designed to enhance everyday living with ease.
Bold use of colour and texture to create dynamic, engaging interiors.
Each of these elements ensures that our homes not only look beautiful but also feel authentic and liveable - a perfect balance of form and function.
Thank you to all my clients in 2024 who trusted me to bring their visions to life. Here’s to more exciting, inspiring and meaningful projects in the year ahead!
Ready to start designing your dream space? Make a project enquiry today and let’s create something special together!
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