During last year's Furniture Fair in Stockholm, Sweden, we were inspired by the talk given by colour trend expert Karl John Bertilsson on the upcoming trends and colours of 2025+. The presentation predicted a year of world complexity and uncertainty driven by climate change, political shifts, and social divisions, shifting people's preferences for colours and a desire to be bolder and more expressive in their choices.

As designers and backed up by scientific research we know that colour truly is psychology. Colour is everywhere. Anywhere you look colour exists either consciously or subconsciously and its uses are more impactful to us than we think. Colour can be used to make a statement, create an atmosphere, and positively or negatively affect our moods. Each colour has its wavelength and energy, training in colour psychology is a must for designers to understand how it affects our mood, feelings and even behaviours.

2025 COLOUR TRENDS

In the following short paragraphs, we have outlined the upcoming trends based on some of the biggest colour experts in the field and the themes these colour trends will bring to our interior spaces.

Muddied colours: The rise of sci-fi across media, with its exploration of multiple universes, has undeniably influenced a resurgence of complex, muddied colours. This trend sees vibrant pinks, purples, greens, and yellows grounded in earthy bases, creating palettes that contradict the very notion of a single, consistent reality. These dynamic, muted, and moody colour combinations reflect the inherent contradictions of a multiverse where vibrant life can coexist with cosmic dust, and the familiar can seamlessly blend with the utterly alien.

Sustainability: The rise of artificial intelligence blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, leaving many yearning for more authentic experiences. This, coupled with the harsh realities of climate change, has intensified the biophilia trend. The desire for connection with nature is no longer just an aesthetic preference; it's a wake-up call. Consumers are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly products, vegan leathers, non-toxic materials, and reusable items as a way to reconnect with the natural world and take tangible action against environmental degradation.

Earthy tone: The extremes of our world, from the soaring heights of technological advancement to the devastating impacts of climate change, have led to a yearning for grounding and stability. This is reflected in the growing popularity of earthy tones like burnt sienna and olive green in interior design. These deep, grounding hues create a sense of natural calm and invite a sense of connection to the earth, offering a much-needed contrast to the often overwhelming and chaotic realities and characters that populate our lives.

Sensorial design: In-depth research shows that it goes beyond visual aesthetics, creating immersive experiences that engage all the senses. Textures, scents, sounds, and lighting work in harmony to evoke emotions and create a truly multi-sensory environment. This approach is particularly relevant today, as research into sound and colour stimuli reveals their profound impact on our well-being. Sonic vibration and specific sound frequencies have been shown to support deep states of meditation, promote body healing, and enhance mental clarity. By incorporating these elements into design, we can create spaces that not only inspire but also nurture our overall well-being.

These evolving trends converge to inform the colour palettes that define our interiors. We can expect to see a harmonious interplay of these influences, resulting in sophisticated and serene palettes, vibrant yet grounded, and ultimately, deeply reflective of our complex and ever-changing world.

COLOUR PALLETS REFLECTING THE TRENDS

Teals and blues with gold 

As climate change intensifies, creating a warmer and drier world, we are drawn to colours that evoke the life-giving presence of water. This translates into a growing appreciation for blue and green tones, a visual tribute to nature's most precious resource. These colours, reminiscent of oceans, rivers, and lush tropical landscapes, offer a sense of calm and tranquillity, providing a much-needed respite from the increasing aridity of our environment. 

In 2025, we'll see a captivating resurgence of teals and blues, often paired with shimmering gold accents. This luxurious colour palette evokes a sense of stillness and sophistication. Teal, a vibrant blend of blue and green, symbolises balance and harmony, while cool blues promote feelings of calm and serenity. These evocative hues, reminiscent of a vibrant sunset or a deep, still pond, create a captivating and mesmerising atmosphere. The introduction of warm gold adds a touch of opulence, creating a sense of understated, classy luxury while grounding the palette in warmth and abundance, much like the preciousness of water itself. This combination is perfect for creating nurturing spaces, where one can relax and recharge, connecting with the serene beauty of nature.

Purple taking a bigger role 

Our world is a tapestry of stark contrasts, from the dizzying heights of technological advancement to the devastating impacts of climate change. In this era of extremes, we seek solace in the embrace of both light and shadow. This universal yearning for balance manifests in the harmonious blending of contrasting colours, a visual metaphor for unity. By embracing these dualities, we strive to bridge the divides within ourselves and the world around us, fostering a sense of connection and hope. This pursuit of harmony is reflected in the rise of purple, a colour long associated with royalty and spirituality. 

From deep jewel tones like amethyst and eggplant to softer lavender hues, purple brings drama and intrigue to any space. Its versatility, spanning vibrant and subdued shades, captures the essence of bridging opposites. Purple evokes a spectrum of emotions: the richness of luxury and sophistication, the calm of introspection, and the spark of creativity. When used thoughtfully, purple creates spaces that are not only captivating but also deeply inspiring. It encourages introspection and inner peace while celebrating the beauty of duality, reminding us that harmony lies in the balance of contrasts.

Natural materials 

In today's increasingly polarised and uncertain world, we seek solace within ourselves, trusting our intuition and sensory experiences. This inward focus shapes a preference for colour palettes that evoke comfort, warmth, and joy, colours that make us feel at home, cosy, and safe. We gravitate towards a spectrum of mid-tones warm, earthy hues that resonate deeply with our humanity and possess a quiet, enduring strength. This trend reflects a collective longing for inner peace, self-reflection, and a harmonious balance, which is much needed in 2025.

This desire for grounding and authenticity is mirrored in a renewed appreciation for natural materials like hemp, linen, and wool. These tactile, sustainable elements not only add warmth and texture but also promote a sense of well-being. Spaces created with such materials feel grounded and authentic, fostering a deeper connection to ourselves and the world.

The harmonious integration of natural materials and warm, earthy hues speaks to our instinctive need for comfort and balance. Together, they create interiors that are both soothing and invigorating - a gentle reminder that even amidst chaos, we can find grounding and joy in the simple, natural elements that surround us.

Washed-out colours

Ethereal, fluid colours mirror a sense of fluidity in our modern lives, where the boundaries between the digital and physical realms increasingly blur. In 2025, this seamless integration of technology and aesthetics is shaping immersive spaces that transcend the limitations of the tangible world, inviting us to explore the boundless possibilities of the multiverse. 

This trend embraces a sense of lightness and imperfection, reflecting the fluid and ever-evolving nature of our interconnected world. Washed-out colours, soft textures, and a focus on collaborative spaces will dominate, creating environments that foster creativity and connection. These spaces will celebrate the unique contributions of individuals while encouraging a sense of shared purpose and collective achievement. Such spaces mirror the fluidity of our digital experiences, where information flows effortlessly, and the boundaries between real and virtual worlds continuously shift. By embracing this trend, we invite an atmosphere that balances ethereal beauty with practicality, offering a space that adapts to the way we live, work, and dream.

Conclusion

At its core, a trend is a reflection of collective psychology a response to the prevailing moods, aspirations, and anxieties of the moment. Whether you are drawn to the fluidity of this approach or another 2025 trend, remember that the most impactful designs are those that authentically reflect your unique style. By creating spaces that truly resonate with you, you honour both the personal and the universal, making your surroundings not just a reflection of the times, but a sanctuary for your soul.