Interior design in 2025 has been less about rigid rules and more about emotional resonance. Today’s most compelling spaces are thoughtful, tactile and deeply connected to how we want to live. Three design movements, in particular, are shaping interiors across architecture, residential homes and high-end developments. You may not have heard of them yet, however they are about to be three of the most utilised interior design movements for the new year.
ONE. Kanso
Derived from Japanese Zen philosophy, Kanso is the art of eliminating the non-essential. It’s not minimalism for aesthetic’s sake; it’s minimalism for clarity. Kanso rooms breathe. Every piece has intention. Every line feels considered.
Key Elements of Kanso
- Uncluttered space: Only what matters remains.
- Natural materials: Timber, stone, linen, paper.
- Low, grounded furniture: A reminder of our connection to the earth.
- Soft, indirect light: Calmness achieved through glow, not glare.
How Kanso Supports Modern Living
In an age of digital overload, Kanso interiors act as a mental reset. They feel slow, quiet and deeply restorative.
TWO. Soft Brutalism
Brutalism has long been associated with stark concrete and imposing forms, but Soft Brutalism introduces a gentler edge. Think raw materials, softened with curves, textiles and warm tones.
Key Elements of Soft Brutalism
- Textured concrete & plaster: Raw but refined.
- Chunky forms with curved edges: Softer silhouettes reduce harshness.
- Monochromatic palettes: Taupe, stone, putty, smoke.
- Tactile contrasts: Concrete next to boucle, stone alongside timber.
Why Soft Brutalism Works Today
It’s the perfect antidote to the cold sterility often associated with modern architecture. The design feels architectural yet comforting, grounded yet gentle.
THREE. Subtropical Design
Subtropical design embraces humidity, filtered light and an affinity for the outdoors. It’s entrenched in places like Queensland, Brazil and Southeast Asia, where living with nature is essential.
Key Elements of Subtropical Design
- Open-plan layouts with breezeways
- Ceiling fans, natural ventilation & large openings
- Lush greenery indoors and out
- Rattan, teak, bamboo and breathable fabrics
- A relaxed, holiday-like atmosphere
The Subtropical Advantage
It creates homes that feel alive, designed to cool, soothe and reconnect residents to their surrounding climate.
What unites Kanso, Soft Brutalism and Subtropical design is a shared desire for authenticity and emotional comfort. Each responds to modern life in its own way, whether through calm restraint, architectural strength or environmental connection.
Together, they signal a move away from fleeting trends and toward interiors that are meaningful, grounded and deeply personal.
These are not styles designed to impress at first glance…they’re designed to be lived in, felt and experienced over time.