5 Interior Design “Trends” I’m Loving Right Now (That Won’t Feel Dated Next Year)
Current favorites that add warmth, texture, and personality to any room
If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest lately, you’ve probably noticed a shift. The all-white kitchens and cookie-cutter trends are starting to give way to something warmer, cozier, and much more personal.
The best part? These new interior design trends don’t scream “2025.” They feel lived-in, layered, and thoughtful which are the kind of choices that look even better over time. Kind of the opposite of a “trend” right?
Let’s walk through five design details that are catching my eye right now.
These are the small things that make a BIG difference in how your home feels, without risking regret a year from now.
Enjoy! 🍂
1. Plaid Tile: The Unexpected Pattern That Feels Fresh
Yes, plaid tile is a thing, and I am here for it! Think subtle tone-on-tone grids that bring texture and personality to spaces like mudrooms, laundry rooms, or even powder baths. It’s pattern, but without chaos.
The key is to keep it simple. Stick with two or three colors in the same family. A mix of warm neutrals can look incredible when balanced with a crisp white grout. It’s playful but still stands the test of time.
Where it works best:
Small spaces that can handle a little personality, like laundry rooms or bar nooks
Classic homes that need a quiet “surprise” moment
Anywhere you’d normally default to plain tile, but want more charm
📖 RELATED: Want to make sure your tile choices age gracefully? Read Timeless Kitchen Design: Creating a Space That Ages Gracefully for ideas that hold up beautifully over time.
2. Tile Layout: The New Way to Make Classics Feel Custom
We’ve been using the same tile shapes for decades, but the layout is where the magic happens. Think vertical stacks, checkerboards, or even a diagonal pattern instead of a basic bricklay.
Changing your tile layout can completely shift the vibe. A stacked vertical subway feels clean and modern, while a checkerboard brings instant charm. It’s an easy way to make affordable tile look custom and elevated.
DESIGN TIP:
Don’t forget your grout. Contrasting grout makes your pattern pop, while color-matched grout creates a seamless look. Both are great options, but the right choice depends on how bold you want the space to feel.
📖 RELATED: For more layout inspiration, check out Tile Installation Cost: 5 Surprising Factors That Can Make or Break Your Budget. It breaks down what really impacts tile pricing so you can plan smart.
3. Work Table Kitchen Islands: Function Meets Soul
There’s a new wave of kitchen islands that feel less like a giant block and more like a functional, charming workbench. Picture chunky legs, open shelves, and furniture-style detailing that makes your kitchen feel collected instead of built-in.
A work table kitchen island works especially well in older homes or remodels where you want to keep the space feeling open and grounded. You can even mix materials like a stone top with wood legs, or painted cabinets with a natural wood island for contrast.
When to consider it:
You want your kitchen to feel more like a “workspace” and less like a showroom
You love a layered, European-inspired look
You need flexibility for stools, serving, or storage
4. Fabric Inside Glass Cabinets: A Soft Surprise
This one might sound unusual at first, but fabric behind glass cabinets adds instant texture and warmth. It’s a tiny design detail that can make a kitchen or dining area feel collected and lived-in.
I especially love this look in butler’s pantries or built-ins where you want a little softness without clutter. Try a small plaid, linen, or floral print that complements your cabinet color. It’s an old-school idea that feels fresh again.
DESIGN TIP:
You can attach the fabric behind the glass or line the back panel instead. It’s even renter-friendly and easy to swap out later if you want a new look.
5. Rustic Woods in Refined Spaces: The Perfect Balance
Rustic wood tones are having a moment, but not in a “log cabin” way. Think modern kitchens with white oak accents, exposed beams, or warm walnut that feels calm and natural.
The beauty of rustic wood lies in its imperfections. The knots, grain, and tonal variation all tell a story. When paired with sleek stone or modern lighting, it keeps the space grounded and human.
Where to use it:
Range hoods, open shelving, or kitchen islands
Bathroom vanities for warmth in a hard-surfaced room
Floors or beams that tie the whole home together
DESIGN TIP:
Mix your finishes. A rustic island in an otherwise clean, modern kitchen can create the perfect balance between lived-in and luxe.
Wrapping It Up: Design Trends That Actually Last
Here’s the thing: the best interior design trends aren’t about being first, they’re about being right for your home. The plaid tile, the creative tile layouts, the rustic wood tones all work because they feel collected and true to how you live, not how a showroom looks.
If you’re planning a renovation, start small. Pick one element that brings warmth, texture, or charm to your space. The goal isn’t to impress Pinterest, it’s to create a home that feels like you.
Grateful for Your Kitchen… Mostly? Let’s Fix That.
If you’re feeling grateful for a kitchen that mostly works but secretly side-eyeing those drawers that slam shut or the cabinet finish that never quite matched, now’s the time to fix it.
Your kitchen deserves better than daily annoyances disguised as “little quirks.” And your budget deserves a plan before next year’s remodel rush.
That’s exactly why I created this:
🍂 Grab my FREE guide→ Kitchen Renovation on a Budget: Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Kitchen Cabinets
It’s quick, practical, and written for real life (like when you’re unloading groceries, cooking three things at once, and wishing your cabinets worked with you, not against you.) 😉