The Future of Interior Design – What’s Next for High-End Homes in 2025 and Beyond?

As property tastes evolve, so too does the design of the homes we live in. At Winkworth, we keep a close eye on how changing lifestyles, aesthetics, and technologies are shaping the look and feel of luxury living. A new report drawing on the insights of top-end architects and interior designers paints a clear picture of what to expect in 2025—and the trends suggest a significant departure from the design norms of recent years.

Goodbye Glossy, Hello Texture

The era of high-shine brass fixtures, ultra-smooth finishes, and expanses of polished marble is giving way to interiors with depth and character. Rich textures, warm natural materials, and a focus on craftsmanship are setting the tone for the next chapter in interior design.

There’s a strong move towards design that feels more tactile, authentic, and layered—reflecting a growing preference for homes with soul and individuality over mass-produced perfection.

Homeowners in the Design Seat

With inspiration at their fingertips thanks to social media, today’s homeowners are more designsavvy than ever. Many now approach projects with clear ideas and mood boards, keen to collaborate and shape the aesthetic direction of their homes. Rather than simply commissioning a style, they want to co-create a space that reflects their personality and values.

The Rise of Quiet Luxury

A leading theme for the year ahead is ‘quiet luxury’—a style marked by understated elegance and refined comfort. Think personal libraries, moody colour palettes, fabric-clad walls, and deeply comfortable furnishings. Wellness is key too, with at-home saunas, natural pools, and spa-like bathrooms gaining popularity. It’s all about creating havens that feel calm, restorative, and deeply personal.

Traditional with a Twist

There’s a clear revival of classic design elements—but with a contemporary edge. Traditional forms are being combined with bold colours, thoughtful detailing, and a renewed focus on quality. This emerging ‘new traditionalist’ trend reflects a desire for longevity and meaning, blending timeless design with modern sensibilities.

Function Meets Flair

Homes are being designed with much greater attention to how every space is used. Townhouses are incorporating features more commonly found in country homes—like boot rooms, pantries, and utility areas—to support modern lifestyles. Luxury buyers are also seeking dressing rooms, cinema rooms, and wellness spaces as standard.

Bespoke features like art storage, car galleries, and private spas are increasingly on the wish lists of high-end clients.

Craftsmanship Counts

There’s a growing desire for interiors that reflect artistry and heritage. Handcrafted furniture, richly patterned stones, tactile woods, and bespoke textiles are replacing generic finishes. Unique materials—such as enamelled lava stone or reclaimed timber—are being used to bring texture and individuality to rooms, while custom furnishings are designed to be passed down through generations.

In short, homeowners want their interiors to feel curated, not copied.

Analogue Overload

While smart home technology is still evolving, not everyone is embracing digital living. A growing number of homeowners are opting for simpler, more analogue experiences—like traditional switches over app-based lighting systems. The appeal of tech-free zones and tangible control over one’s environment is on the rise, especially among those seeking a break from digital overwhelm.

Sustainability Goes Deeper

Sustainable design is no longer a niche concern—it’s fast becoming essential. There’s growing awareness of the environmental and health impacts of design choices, leading to more thoughtful material sourcing, energy-saving technologies, and reduced waste. Locally made bricks, natural clay tiles, recycled materials and low-energy heating systems are becoming more commonplace in luxury homes.

Homeowners are also investing in features like ventilation systems, air-source heat pumps, and sustainably built structures, recognising that the long-term financial and environmental benefits are worth the up-front cost.

A Thoughtful, Timeless Approach

Looking ahead, it’s clear that home design is moving in a more considered and personal direction. The emphasis is shifting from show-stopping finishes to meaningful spaces that reflect individual values, support wellbeing, and stand the test of time. At Winkworth, we’re excited to see how these evolving trends will continue to shape the homes our clients are buying, selling, and living in. Whether you're planning a renovation or searching for your next property, understanding where design is heading can help ensure you’re making stylish and smart choices for the future.

Sources: PrimeResi, Redbook Agency