As 2019 wound down, few could have possibly anticipated what the world would look like now, at the end of 2022. The shock of the pandemic induced a seismic shift in how we live our lives while providing ample time to reevaluate both where and how we live. That’s led to significant changes in what consumers want from both the form and function of the home.
But what design trends do the next few years have in store? In a time of economic uncertainty and existential woe, WGSN’s newly-released Home Lifestyles 2025 white paper predicts a period of necessary innovation as we continue to “do more—and expect more—from the spaces we live in.”
Organized around consumers’ growing desire to live intentionally, work dynamically, rest restoratively, and play immersively, the all-encompassing report has plenty of takeaways for forward-thinking designers looking to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s a closer look at some of the emerging design trends that could well become commonplace by 2025.
The rise of discreet tech
Technology was a crucial lifeline during the pandemic. But as homes have gotten smarter, they’ve also become more cluttered. A novel solution that WGSN’s consumer technology team sees taking hold is the move towards discreet design, which sees gadgets forgoing sleek shininess in favor of an aesthetic that can blend in with decor.
“A domesticated design approach ‘softens’ tech products to make them feel less obtrusive and more blended into the home environment,” says Lisa Yong, WGSN’s director of consumer technology. “User interfaces for home tech products are also moving away from screen-based interactions to more intuitive controls that follow the principles of calm technology.”
In addition to ditching tech’s traditional aesthetic, the best of these discreetly designed items will also take on additional functions that further disguise their true purpose. WGSN’s report points to examples like Savannah, a security device that mimics minimalist toys, and picture frames by Twelve South, which provide wireless charging. On the furniture side, WGSN predicts that consumers may pine for desks with integrated OLED screens that go invisible when turned off.
Casually comfortable furniture comes to the fore
After two-plus years that saw many trade their workwear for a much cozier wardrobe, signs point to our furniture choices also taking on a casual and comfortable feel. WGSN’s head of interiors Gemma Riberti mentions chic slipcovers as a trending way to add a bit of simple softness. (One shocking bit of news? La-Z-Boys have seen a surprising surge in popularity among millennials since 2020, according to WGSN.)
Aesthetically speaking, “round and plump is still relevant, but it’s starting to take on more relaxed, casual, and lived-in look rather than being so smooth that it looks digitally rendered,” Riberti says. “Armchairs, lounge chairs, the return of daybeds and upholstered poufs are key items to call out for this, and will remain central as we look ahead to the next few years—furniture that provides more of a hug and a welcome haven spot.”
Sensorial design will become the norm
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