Design expert Kate McGlone from Winnings, shares her exclusive insights into the key interior design trends shaping Australian homes in the year ahead.
Rich, dynamic palettes: Deep, opulent colours are making a strong comeback in interiors this year, with rich shades of brown, burgundy, and ochre taking centre stage. Burgundy, with its deep oxblood hue, is particularly striking for its ability to create a bold, sophisticated contrast against natural materials like wood and stone. The intensity of this colour complements sculptural furniture and organic, flowing forms, adding a sense of drama to spaces.
Whether in velvet upholstery or accent walls, these bold hues evoke a sense of luxury and warmth, while simultaneously grounding the space in an earthy, comforting palette. This shift toward dramatic yet inviting tones sets the stage for an atmosphere of timeless elegance and contemporary flair in both residential and commercial settings.
Textural richness & glossy finishes: The juxtaposition of earthy, organic textures with high-shine finishes continues to dominate in 2025. Bold materials like resin, concrete, and ceramic are being paired with lacquered surfaces, glossy glass, and dark marble to create stunning contrasts in both furniture and decor.
Designers like Lucy Kurrein, known for her work with Molinari, are embracing this blend of materials in their collections, showcasing the dynamic interplay of smooth, polished surfaces against raw, tactile elements. The high-gloss finishes elevate the natural beauty of materials, reflecting light and creating a modern, luxurious aesthetic. For instance, lacquered pieces paired with smoked glass or dark marble create sophisticated focal points that balance both richness and simplicity, making them ideal for creating an atmosphere of modern elegance with timeless appeal.
Metal trends: The love of metal finishes continues to unfold in 2025. These reflective finishes bring an added dimension to furniture and joinery, catching the light and adding a touch of vitality to any space. Whether incorporated into furniture frames, light fixtures, or accents, these metals add a modern, industrial touch that balances well with softer textures and natural elements, creating an atmosphere of balance and timeless beauty.
Animal prints: This year, bold animal prints—especially big cat designs like tiger stripes—are taking over as a must-have motif in wallpapers, textiles and rugs. Animal prints are being used in a range of ways, from subtle accents like cushions and throws to larger statement pieces such as upholstered couches and feature walls. These striking patterns bring an exotic touch to interiors, adding energy and personality to any space.
The contrast between the natural wildness of animal prints and the refined surroundings creates a playful yet sophisticated vibe, making them a perfect addition to both modern and eclectic settings. Whether you choose to dip your toes into this trend with a single piece or embrace it fully, animal prints are sure to inject a dose of drama and flair into your home.
Curved sofas: One of the top trends for living room decor in 2025, curved sofas are making waves for their ability to introduce both organic warmth and modern sophistication into interiors. These sofas, with their gentle, fluid lines, create a welcoming and comfortable environment by softening the sharp angles and straight lines commonly seen in contemporary furniture. The curved shape adds a sense of playfulness, while still maintaining an air of grown-up elegance and refinement.
These sofas blend seamlessly into both traditional and modern spaces, making them versatile choices for creating stylish yet inviting lounges. They encourage relaxation and conversation, enhancing the cozy, communal atmosphere that is so sought after in living room design today. Whether as a central feature or a more subtle addition, curved sofas offer an elevated, timeless look that will remain relevant for years to come.
French country kitchens: Inspired by the charming, laidback elegance of ‘cafécore’ (Parisian bistro style), French country kitchens are set to be a major trend in 2025. These kitchens combine natural materials like rattan, marble and wood with a refined, rustic patina, creating a space that feels both timeless and inviting.
The use of rattan bar stools and marble countertops adds texture and luxury, while open shelving showcases eclectic collections of kitchenware and decorative items. Bold design elements such as custom wall coverings and statement chandeliers give these kitchens a personalised, curated feel.
Muted tones of green, terracotta, brown, off-white, and natural wood help create a cozy, warm atmosphere, while mix-and-match cabinetry ensures that the space feels collected and lived-in, rather than overly polished. This style emphasises a balance of beauty, practicality, and comfort—perfect for creating a space where family and friends can gather and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
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