Interior design is a constantly evolving field. What was considered cutting-edge yesterday might be deemed outdated and stale tomorrow. It’s a dance between established principles and emerging trends, a constant re-evaluation of what makes a space truly sing. As we move further into 2025, several long-held interior design “rules” are being challenged and, in many cases, outright discarded in favor of more personalized and expressive approaches.
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According to interior design expert Amy Courtney, the shift is driven by a growing appreciation for individuality and imperfection. The emphasis is no longer on sterile uniformity but on spaces that tell a story, embrace character, and reflect the unique personalities of their inhabitants. This means moving away from rigid guidelines and embracing a more fluid, intuitive approach to design.
Here are five outdated interior design rules that are being challenged in 2025, along with suggestions for what to embrace instead:
1. Ditch Strict Symmetry: Embrace Asymmetry
For years, symmetry has been a cornerstone of interior design, often seen as the key to creating balanced and aesthetically pleasing spaces. However, in 2025, the reign of symmetry is waning. Interior designer Michelle Murphy suggests that while strict symmetry can feel overly formal and even a bit stuffy, asymmetry brings a sense of movement, charm, and a more relaxed, natural energy to a room.
This applies not just to the arrangement of furniture but also to the overall design aesthetic. Forget the pressure to have everything perfectly matched. Mixing styles, eras, and finishes creates a more layered and lived-in home. Consider sprinkling in unexpected patterns, mixing wood tones with chrome accents, or using smaller, unconventional artwork to create unique gallery walls.
A simple way to experiment with asymmetry is to use mismatched lamps on bedside tables. Choose lamps that are similar in style or color palette but slightly different in shape or size to create a sense of balance without being overly formal.
2. Break Free from Single-Finish Hardware
The days of meticulously matching every piece of hardware in a room are over. For a long time, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, the standard practice was to stick to a single metallic finish, with brass being a particularly popular choice. But 2025 is all about embracing the beauty of mixed metals.
Pairing polished nickel or unlacquered brass with oil-rubbed bronze adds depth, contrast, and visual interest to a space. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find a look that suits your personal style.
Furthermore, there’s a growing preference for hardware that embraces patina and imperfection. Instead of overly polished, fingerprint-proof finishes, opt for unlacquered or “living” finishes that naturally show wear and watermarks. These finishes bring a sense of warmth and history to a space, creating a lived-in, timeless quality.
3. Expand Beyond Wallpaper and Paint
While wallpaper continues to be a popular choice for adding visual interest to walls, the idea that it’s the only alternative to paint is becoming increasingly outdated. In 2025, designers and homeowners are exploring a wider range of textured wall finishes to create depth and character.
Consider options like Roman clay, plaster reliefs, or limewash. These finishes offer a beautiful middle ground between the simplicity of a single color and the depth and movement that flat paint can sometimes lack.
Decorative elements like bas-relief are also gaining popularity as a way to adorn bare walls. These subtle yet impactful additions add personality while maintaining a cohesive and timeless aesthetic. Another option is DIY wood paneling, which is relatively easy to install and can add warmth, texture, and a touch of luxury to any room.
4. Re-evaluate the Open-Plan Layout
The open-concept floor plan has been a dominant trend in recent years, but its popularity is beginning to wane. While designers aren’t advocating for a complete return to closed-off homes, there’s a growing recognition of the need for privacy and visual separation within living spaces.
The key to making an open-plan layout work in 2025 is to create well-defined areas using furniture arrangement, rugs, archways, or partial walls. These elements can provide just the right amount of separation without completely closing off the space.
Another effective technique is to use different paint colors to zone a room, visually differentiating between areas like the kitchen, dining room, and living room. A room divider can also be a stylish and functional way to create separation while adding storage and display space.
5. Embrace Colorful Countertops
Say goodbye to boring all-white kitchens. In 2025, it’s time to upgrade kitchen countertops with more exciting and colorful materials. This could mean opting for an elegant purple Rosso Levanto marble or an olive green lava stone.
While classic white Carrara marble will always have its appeal, there’s a growing shift towards more distinctive materials like soapstone or colorful marbles. These unique alternatives bring a deeper sense of texture, mood, and individuality to kitchens and bathrooms.
The message is clear: don’t be afraid of color, even in everyday spaces like the kitchen. Start small by adding colorful accessories like salt and pepper shakers, and gradually incorporate more vibrant elements into your design.
Ultimately, the most important thing to remember is that interior design rules are meant to be broken. Embrace your personal style, experiment with different textures and colors, and create a space that truly reflects who you are.