As a designer, I’m vehemently opposed to blindly following trends, because they are seasonal. The focus instead should be on creating a personalised style that is timeless by cherry-picking pieces and materials that resonate with you.
Based on client demand and what I’ve seen at exhibitions, fairs and in design media, here are four themes to consider while moulding your space your way, with a catalogue of images for each (above and below) for you to seek inspiration from.
Colour me wild
Deep, saturated palettes are in. Think aubergine, charcoal, terracotta and dark chocolate, the last one following on from Pantone’s colour of the year 2025. We are seeing the end of the tranquil, serene boucle trend that started post-pandemic. I’m as guilty as the next person of loving boucle, but it doesn’t age well, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets or children.
In 2025, we’ll see the back of the tone-on-tone calmness overload and make way instead for colour drenching. Dusky, moody vibes will also be welcomed. Remember, though, that lighting is key with this palette, to highlight features and ensure the space feels intimate not depressing.
Metallic finishes
Metals add sparkle and shine that will benefit most interiors. However, champagne tones are so last year; instead choose stainless steel for its durability and a nickel satin finish in bathrooms for affordability.
Rose gold, bronze and gold can be go-tos for door hardware and sanitary finishes. In this form, they are both easy on the eye and on the pocket.
Flower power
Bid goodbye to geometric patterns and flat textures. We are seeing a backlash against all things safe and boring.
If you are choosing fabrics, brace yourself for floral patterns and intricate embroidery. These lush and soft, feminine trends will also extend to lighting and rugs.
Wellness corners
We’ve seen a huge increase in wellness spaces at home – one step above your average gym. Think cryotherapy corners, cold plunge baths and infrared saunas. These range from ultra-lux to affordable DIY solutions, and can be used to carve out your own wellness bubble, big or small, in your home or workspace.
More from Rashmee Roshan Lall
What is Reform?
Reform is a right-wing, populist party led by Nigel Farage, a former MEP who won a seat in the House of Commons last year at his eighth attempt and a prominent figure in the campaign for the UK to leave the European Union.
It was founded in 2018 and originally called the Brexit Party.
Many of its members previously belonged to UKIP or the mainstream Conservatives.
After Brexit took place, the party focused on the reformation of British democracy.
Former Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson became its first MP after defecting in March 2024.
The party gained support from Elon Musk, and had hoped the tech billionaire would make a £100m donation. However, Mr Musk changed his mind and called for Mr Farage to step down as leader in a row involving the US tycoon's support for far-right figurehead Tommy Robinson who is in prison for contempt of court.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
UAE v Gibraltar
What: International friendly
When: 7pm kick off
Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City
Admission: Free
Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles’ Facebook page
UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)
UNSC Elections 2022-23
Seats open:
- Two for Africa Group
- One for Asia-Pacific Group (traditionally Arab state or Tunisia)
- One for Latin America and Caribbean Group
- One for Eastern Europe Group
Countries so far running:
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Killing of Qassem Suleimani