Home design in 2025 is pulling in two very different directions: on one end, serene, Zen-inspired spaces with muted palettes, and on the other, bold interiors filled with rich, moody tones. According to a new trend report from Houzz, homeowners are embracing both extremes — and everything in between — as they remodel and refresh their spaces this summer.
Organic Modern Takes the Spotlight
One of the fastest-rising styles is organic modern, which blends clean, minimalist lines with natural textures and forms. Think crisp white walls paired with warm woods, stone accents, or woven details. Houzz reports searches for “organic modern bedrooms” have more than tripled year over year, with kitchens, dining rooms, and bathrooms also seeing surges in popularity.
Dark and Moody Interiors Make a Comeback
At the same time, homeowners are leaning into dark and dramatic palettes. Searches for “moody living rooms” and “moody kitchens” have doubled, while “dark ceiling” styles are up 60 percent compared to last year. Designers are layering deep reds, browns, and charcoal tones to create cozy, intimate, or dramatic effects — a sharp turn away from the all-white interiors that dominated much of the past decade.
Reading Rooms and Dark Academia
The “dark academia” aesthetic, rooted in literature and learning, is now shaping interior spaces. Searches for “book nooks,” “library walls,” and the British-inspired “snug” have all spiked as homeowners carve out quiet areas for reading and reflection. Houzz says searches for dark academia home styles tripled in early 2025, reflecting a growing demand for scholarly, cozy retreats within the home.
Japandi and the Zen Influence
Another major trend is Japandi, a blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian practicality. Known for simplicity, natural elements, and harmony, Japandi-inspired spaces are gaining traction in kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Related design concepts like wabi-sabi (finding beauty in imperfection) and Zen gardens are also seeing a rise in interest, highlighting the ongoing shift toward balance and tranquility in the home.
Wellness at Home
Wellness-focused design remains front and center. Searches for cold plunges, indoor saunas, home spas, backyard saunas, and skylights are climbing, reflecting homeowners’ desire to make their houses feel more restorative. Bringing in more natural light and creating spa-like experiences at home are top priorities in many remodels.
Leisure and Entertainment Spaces
Dedicated hobby and leisure areas are trending as well. Houzz reports searches for listening rooms have more than doubled, and “living room pianos” are surging as families carve out spaces for music. Recreational features like bocce courts, bowling alleys, and game rooms are also on the rise, showing that homeowners want fun built into their homes — both indoors and out.
Kid-Centered Zones
Families are also designing with children in mind. Searches are up for race car beds, Jack-and-Jill bathrooms, teen lounges, and kids’ gaming bedrooms, reflecting a growing interest in creating playful, functional zones tailored to young family members.
A Home for Every Lifestyle
Taken together, these emerging design trends paint a picture of homeowners seeking balance — between calm and energy, minimalism and boldness, function and fun. Whether it’s through a spa-like bathroom, a moody reading nook, or a backyard bocce court, today’s home design is less about following one rulebook and more about reflecting personal lifestyle and priorities.
