Interior design trends evolve as societal values, lifestyles, and technologies change. What was once seen as stylish and modern can quickly become outdated or even cringeworthy. As we approach 2025, interior designers are voicing strong opinions on certain trends that no longer make the cut. These “icks” are not just aesthetic faux pas—they can also compromise functionality, comfort, or sustainability.
If you’re looking to revamp your home or simply stay in tune with contemporary design, it’s time to reconsider these five interior design habits that designers are urging everyone to leave behind in 2025.
1. The Overuse of Gray-on-Gray Interiors
For years, gray has dominated the world of interior design. From walls and floors to furniture and decor, the monochromatic gray aesthetic became the default choice for homeowners and designers seeking a neutral palette. While gray can be calming and versatile, its overuse has left many spaces feeling cold, lifeless, and overly uniform.
Why It’s an Ick:
- Lack of Personality: Gray-on-gray interiors often lack warmth and individuality, making spaces feel impersonal.
- Over-Saturation: The trend has been so overdone that it no longer feels fresh or innovative.
- Missed Opportunities: Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. There are countless other neutral tones—like warm beiges, taupes, and soft pastels—that can achieve a similar effect without feeling sterile.
What to Do Instead:
Embrace color and texture to add depth and warmth to your spaces. Earthy tones like terracotta, sage green, and muted blues are gaining popularity for their ability to create a soothing yet lively atmosphere. Layer different textures—think wood, woven fabrics, and natural stone—to bring dimension and character to your home.
2. The Open Shelving Overload
Open shelving was once a fresh way to showcase kitchenware, books, and decor. It offered a clean, modern look while providing easy access to frequently used items. However, the trend has reached its breaking point, with many designers now calling it impractical and messy.
Why It’s an Ick:
- Cluttered Appearance: Unless you’re meticulous about organization, open shelves often look chaotic and overcrowded.
- High Maintenance: Keeping open shelves dust-free and picture-perfect requires constant effort.
- Limited Functionality: They’re not ideal for storing items you’d rather keep out of sight, such as mismatched dishes or pantry staples.
What to Do Instead:
Opt for a mix of open and closed storage solutions. Use open shelves sparingly for curated displays of your favorite items, and rely on cabinets or drawers for everything else. Glass-front cabinets can also offer a similar aesthetic while keeping the contents protected and less cluttered.
3. Fast Furniture Addiction
Fast furniture—the inexpensive, mass-produced furniture that’s readily available from big-box stores—has been a go-to for many homeowners looking to furnish their spaces quickly and affordably. While convenient, this trend comes at a significant environmental and aesthetic cost.
Why It’s an Ick:
- Poor Quality: Fast furniture is often made from low-quality materials, meaning it doesn’t stand the test of time.
- Environmental Impact: The short lifespan of fast furniture contributes to landfill waste and perpetuates unsustainable manufacturing practices.
- Cookie-Cutter Design: Mass-produced furniture often lacks originality, leading to homes that look identical to everyone else’s.
What to Do Instead:
Invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that you truly love. While the upfront cost may be higher, these items will last longer and make a more meaningful contribution to your space. Consider shopping second-hand or upcycling vintage furniture for a unique, sustainable alternative.
4. The “Gallery Wall” Overload
Gallery walls—groupings of framed artwork, photos, and prints—have been a popular way to personalize a space. While they can be beautiful when done right, overdone gallery walls are starting to feel cluttered, busy, and overwhelming.
Why It’s an Ick:
- Visual Chaos: Too many frames and pieces can make a space feel disjointed and over-stimulating.
- Lack of Cohesion: Gallery walls often lack a unifying theme, resulting in a mismatched aesthetic.
- Overdone Trend: The ubiquity of gallery walls has made them lose their impact, especially when poorly executed.
What to Do Instead:
Focus on one or two statement pieces of art that anchor the room and draw attention. Oversized artwork or a bold, single piece can have a dramatic and refined impact. If you still love the idea of multiple pieces, opt for a more structured approach, such as a grid layout with matching frames and cohesive artwork.
5. Excessive Use of Industrial Design
Industrial design—characterized by exposed brick, raw wood, metal finishes, and factory-inspired elements—has been a major trend for over a decade. While it’s a great fit for lofts and urban spaces, its overuse in other settings has started to feel forced and dated.
Why It’s an Ick:
- Harsh Aesthetic: The heavy reliance on raw materials and dark tones can make spaces feel cold and uninviting.
- Lack of Versatility: Industrial design doesn’t always blend well with other styles, limiting its adaptability.
- Predictability: The trend has become so mainstream that it’s lost its edge and originality.
What to Do Instead:
Soften industrial elements by blending them with other design styles. Pair raw wood and metal with plush textiles, warm lighting, and natural greenery to create a more balanced and welcoming space. Biophilic design—emphasizing a connection to nature—is a growing trend that complements industrial design while softening its harsher edges.
Embracing Thoughtful, Timeless Design in 2025
As we leave these icks behind, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of thoughtful, intentional design. Homeowners are moving away from fleeting trends and embracing interiors that reflect their personalities, values, and lifestyles.
Here are a few overarching principles that designers are advocating for:
- Sustainability: Opt for eco-friendly materials, vintage finds, and durable, long-lasting pieces.
- Comfort and Functionality: Prioritize spaces that feel cozy and work well for your daily needs.
- Personal Expression: Instead of following trends, create spaces that genuinely reflect your tastes and memories.
- Versatility: Invest in designs that can evolve with you and adapt to changing needs over time.
The goal is to create homes that not only look beautiful but also feel good to live in—spaces that are functional, welcoming, and uniquely yours.