03 Decorating Mistakes to Avoid in 2025
In 2025, interior design is evolving towards a warmer, more authentic and dynamic ambience. Some past trends are now outdated and risk giving your interior an old-fashioned look. Here are the decorating mistakes to avoid this year for a harmonious, trendy interior.
Table of contents
1. Old-fashioned furniture and objects
Matching sofa and armchairs
Long considered an elegant choice, the matching total look in the living room today lacks dynamism and authenticity. Rather than opting for a uniform ensemble, mix styles by pairing a colorful velvet sofa with rattan or textured fabric armchairs. This approach creates relief and a more personal interior.
Subway tiles, an outdated choice
Once popular in kitchens and bathrooms, white subway tiles with dark grouting have become all too common. For a more contemporary alternative, turn to imitation Zellige tiles, which add shine and an artisanal touch. You can also choose rectangular tiles with colored grout for a more original touch.
More modern credenza inspiration in this article.
Jungle wallpaper: a tired motif
Jungle wallpaper has invaded interiors in recent years, but in 2025 it’s losing its appeal. Instead, opt for panoramic patterns or murals inspired by natural landscapes. These decorative elements add depth without weighing the room down.
For wallpaper trend inspiration, click here.
2. Avoid color combinations
Grey and cold tones: an overly austere ambience
Grey, once a symbol of modern elegance, is now perceived as too cold and impersonal. Shades of slate blue and taupe follow the same downward trend. To avoid a soulless interior, opt for warmer shades such as terracotta, ochre or caramel brown.
Immaculate white, too clinical
An all-white interior may look bright, but it also runs the risk of appearing bland and impersonal. On large surfaces, replace it with softer neutral tones such as sandy beige, warm grey or powder pink.
Black and white: too abrupt a contrast
Although sophisticated, the black and white duo sometimes lacks warmth. In 2025, the focus is on softer, more enveloping color palettes, such as terracotta and cream cameos, which create a soothing, natural ambience.
Navy blue, too stiff
Once very trendy, navy blue is now considered too formal and rigid. It’s being replaced by livelier, more optimistic colors, such as lemon yellow or powder pink, which bring freshness and dynamism to an interior.
3. False steps in space planning
Neglecting the layout of spaces
A good layout is essential to maximize the comfort and functionality of an interior. Avoid placing your furniture without thinking. Opt for a fluid layout that encourages circulation and delimits spaces with rugs, light partitions or curtains.
Underestimating the importance of lighting
Poorly thought-out lighting can ruin the best décor. Avoid a single overhead light and opt for a combination of pendant, accent and indirect lights. Warm light bulbs contribute to a cozier, more welcoming atmosphere.
Overloading the space with furniture
Accumulating too much furniture weighs down the space and impedes circulation. Choose modular, multi-functional furniture, ideal for evolving interiors. A convertible sofa or extendable table can optimize space without overloading it.
Trendy decorating alternatives for 2025
- Choose modular, made-to-measure furniture for a practical, evolving interior.
- Go for vintage furniture for a more unique and responsible decor.
- Choose warm colors like terracotta or burgundy, which warm up the atmosphere.
- Dare to use butter yellow to replace beige, considered the “new ultimate neutral”.
- Replace white with primary blue, in dabs or textured wallpaper, for a bold, contemporary look.
By avoiding these decorating mistakes and adopting these new trends, your home will be modern, warm and timeless!
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FAQ
Why shouldn’t you match your sofa and armchairs?
Matching sofas and armchairs can make your living room look too uniform and staid. In 2025, we prefer mismatched pieces that bring character and relief to the decor. For example, combine a velvet sofa with rattan or linen armchairs for a more natural, dynamic effect.
Are subway tiles totally outdated?
Yes, white subway tiles with dark grout have been overused and lack originality today. Instead, opt for imitation Zellige tiles, colored grout or rectangular tiles in softer shades for a warmer, more contemporary look.
What colors to avoid in 2025?
Grey and cold tones, immaculate white on large surfaces and black and white in sharp contrast are to be avoided. These hues can give a cold, impersonal look. Instead, opt for warm colors such as terracotta, burgundy or butter yellow, which create a more welcoming, trendy ambience.
How can you avoid overdecorating?
To avoid clutter, opt for modular, multi-functional furniture that adapts to your space. Also remember to organize your storage and leave breathing zones in your interior to promote better circulation and a more soothing atmosphere.
What role does lighting play in decoration?
Lighting is essential to enhance your decor and create a pleasant atmosphere. Avoid a single ceiling light and combine different light sources: pendant lights, accent lamps, wall sconces and indirect lighting for a warm, cosy atmosphere.
