Interior Trends Making a Comeback

Interior design is a world of evolving styles, yet some looks never truly disappear—they simply wait for the right moment to shine again. Take aluminium battens, for example, once a staple of 70s and 80s commercial spaces, they’re now resurfacing in sleek, modern forms that suit everything from residential features to boardroom ceilings. One office fitout company recently used them to add depth and texture to a collaborative workspace, proving that retro inspiration can pair beautifully with contemporary needs. These kinds of returns signal a broader movement: designers are increasingly blending nostalgia with new-age thinking to revive timeless looks with fresh appeal.

Here’s a roundup of top interior trends making a strong comeback in today’s design scene.

Warm Woods & Rich Timber Tones

The resurgence of timber is bringing warmth and authenticity back into interiors. Lighter Scandi-inspired woods dominated the last decade, but designers are now reaching for deeper, richer tones—walnut, teak, and dark oak are having a moment again. These materials give a sense of permanence and luxury, mainly used in flooring, cabinetry, and furniture. When balanced with neutral walls or paired with textured materials, these darker woods ground a room and create a more intimate atmosphere.

Curves and Organic Shapes

Straight lines have ruled modern interiors for years, but curves are reclaiming their place. From arched doorways and rounded sofas to oblong mirrors and organically shaped coffee tables, soft lines are helping spaces feel more inviting and fluid. Inspired by the 70s but updated with minimalist sensibilities, this trend creates flow and a sense of calm, especially in open-plan homes. Expect to see more upholstered pieces and architectural details embracing the beauty of the curve.

Statement Ceilings

Once considered an afterthought, ceilings are now taking center stage again. Whether it’s with bold paint, wallpaper, exposed beams, or intricate mouldings, the “fifth wall” is becoming a canvas for creativity. This is not a new concept—Victorian homes often used decorative ceilings to impress—but the modern take brings in contrasting colours, timber slats, or even acoustic features to both elevate design and improve function. A carefully curated ceiling can completely transform how a room is perceived.

Vintage-Inspired Color Palettes

Muted pastels, mossy greens, burnt oranges, and mustard yellows—these nostalgic hues are being woven back into contemporary interiors. Designers are revisiting the 60s and 70s palette, but with a muted and refined twist. Instead of full-on retro, the look is more balanced: vintage tones are paired with modern furniture, clean lines, and plenty of white space to keep things feeling fresh. This trend brings personality and warmth to spaces that might otherwise feel sterile.

Layered Textures

Textured layering is making a strong comeback in response to ultra-minimalist and monochromatic trends. Designers mix materials—think boucle cushions, jute rugs, velvet sofas, timber panelling, and linen drapes—to create depth and sensory richness. This approach adds a tactile quality to interiors and invites people to feel as much as they see. Texture-on-texture compositions, when done right, add warmth and an understated sense of luxury.

Earthy Tiles and Terrazzo

Tiles with natural finishes and stone-inspired surfaces are enjoying a revival. Terracotta, zellige, and handmade ceramics offer that old-world, tactile charm that perfectly complements modern minimalism. Terrazzo, in particular, is back in a big way—though updated with neutral tones, oversized chips, or sleek finishes. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, these materials offer a durable yet stylish touch.

Wallpaper is Back—and Better

Forget the fussy floral prints of the past. Today’s wallpaper options are chic, diverse, and easier to install (and remove). Wallpaper—ranging from bold botanicals to textured designs—lets you personalise a space without a full makeover. Whether used to create a statement wall or to bring intimacy to a powder room, it’s a trend that blends artistry with versatility.

Retro-Inspired Lighting

Lighting fixtures inspired by mid-century and Art Deco styles are making a glamorous return. Think brass pendants, globe lights, and sculptural floor lamps. These lighting elements don’t just illuminate—they anchor rooms with character and a nod to past design eras. Pairing vintage-inspired fixtures with modern settings adds contrast and elevates the overall aesthetic.

Closed Floor Plans (Reimagined)

While open-plan living still has its fans, many homeowners are embracing the comfort and functionality of defined rooms again. However, the new version isn’t about walling everything off. Instead, designers are using bookshelves, screens, and even glass partitions to create zones without sacrificing light or flow. It’s about balance—open enough to feel connected, but closed enough to allow privacy and purpose.

Built-In Features

Built-in shelving, seating, and cabinetry are seeing renewed popularity. Popular in mid-century and earlier homes, these features maximise space and offer a seamless, integrated look. Modern versions focus on clean finishes and functional design—think window seats with hidden storage or wall-spanning bookshelves that double as a feature wall. These built-ins create tailored, cohesive interiors while keeping floor plans clean and clutter-free.

Design trends don’t disappear—they evolve. Reviving old styles with a modern twist adds charm and character. Whether you’re a homeowner updating a room or an office fit out company re-imagining a workspace, embracing the old can lead to beautifully modern results.