It’s always a wonder how trends develop year after year and the ways people inevitably follow them, so that eventually whatever look is in vogue one year (or five) is dated the next. Some trends seem to go on forever: Remember the never ending gray and white trend, or 50 shades of beige, or shaker kitchen cabinets? Others are short lived, which might lead to regret and the reprieve of “what was I thinking?” when you realize your once-trendy look is suddenly dated.
In 2025, the trend seems to be heading toward a more novel concept: individual taste. “In many recent conversations with the design team regarding trends, one thing that comes up without fail, is how people want a space that is more reflective of them and their style and preferences than whatever the current big trends are,” says Valerie Stafford, Partner + Lead Designer, Rumor Designs. “I know our design team always strives to achieve this by creating spaces that feel intentional, timeless, and personal while still being current and fresh to their ever-evolving industry.” The best way to avoid falling into the trend trap is to rely on your own individual style. This anti-trend trend prevails in the dawn of the new year.
Stafford rounded up the team at the Steamboat-based design firm to gauge what we can look forward to seeing in Steamboat-style interior design in 2025.
Bye-bye minimalism.
“For the last several years design has had a very minimalist mindset which sometimes has a tendency to feel a little clinical and sterile,” Stafford says. “This year, we think we’ll see the resurgence of warmer, more detailed designs that bring character and personality to a space.” This can be anything from lighting controls that look like traditional brass fixtures to unique, artisanal handcrafted elements.
Choices, galore.
“We’re finding that the marketplace in general has so many more options than in years past,” Stafford says. “Before, it felt like we would go to market to source things for clients or our showroom R|D Home and everything felt so repetitive. It was as though vendors were just copy and pasting what they had seen everyone else do. Now these vendors are making so many more options and it’s becoming fun to shop again.” More options mean you’re more likely to find something that suits your tastes and not those dictated by trends.
Quality over quantity.
“People are making more conscious decisions when it comes to furniture and finish selections,” Stafford says. “Consumers are looking for eco-friendly, well-made, high-quality options. I think in 2025 people will opt to save and splurge for these consciously crafted pieces.” Think: hand crafted pieces that are more original, boutique finds and original, limited-edition styles. This is the counterpoint to the minimalist, modern aesthetic and big box store finishes that might look clean but feel generic. People are willing to spend more for quality and originality.
Down to earth.
“Pantone’s Color of 2025 is Mocha Mousse, an indication that browns and other rich tones or their slightly toned-down variations will continue to rise in popularity in the coming year,” Stafford says. Warm, rich colors like beige, taupe, burnt sienna and olive green evoke a feeling of peace and tranquility. These earth tones also speak to the seamlessness of indoor-outdoor mountain living.
Full of life.
Design influence from nature and more specifically, biophilic design will be big in 2025. “Biophilic design stems from an architectural style that incorporates natural elements into buildings to create an environment that feels connected to nature. Studies have actually shown that designs like this have proven health benefits such as reduced stress levels, increased productivity, lower blood pressure, the list goes on, all through this connectivity to the natural environment around you,” Stafford says. One thing’s for sure: this trend will give new life to 2025.
//rumordesigns.com
