The 5 outdated paint colors of 2024 designers loathe — and what they're loving instead

The interior design world is constantly evolving, with color trends being particularly dynamic. What is universally adored one moment can become dated the next, leading designers to continually reassess popular palettes. This article highlights five specific color trends that interior designers are moving away from and suggests contemporary alternatives to keep home interiors fresh and current. Understanding these shifts can help homeowners avoid choices that might make their spaces feel old-fashioned. One significant color trend that has seen a dramatic decline in popularity is cool grey. Approximately five years ago, cool grey dominated interior schemes, appearing in homes from modern to traditional styles. However, designers like Charles Cohen note that the prevalent cool greys were often dull and failed to add character. This shade has become so associated with generic new builds that Gen Z has coined the term 'Millennial grey' pejoratively. Instead of cool grey, designers are now favoring warmer, more organic, and textural neutrals such as taupes and earthy grey tones. These alternatives offer increased warmth, sophistication, and a foundation for layered design, adding depth to a room without the starkness of cool grey. Another trend losing its appeal is millennial pink. While this pale, muted pink with a hint of peach enjoyed widespread popularity, interior designers are increasingly expressing fatigue with its ubiquity. Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN suggests that millennial pink lacks long-lasting appeal, while Brooke Spreckman of Design Hutch explicitly states she is content to never see another millennial pink space again. The industry is now gravitating towards colors that fill the void left by millennial pink, with lavender and peach emerging as popular replacements. Additionally, designers are exploring other less-common pinks, with suggestions for classic shades like blush or dusty rose, or opting for more versatile neutrals, to achieve a modern and timeless aesthetic. Beyond millennial pink, other pastels are also being re-evaluated. While pastels remain relevant in design, the nuance lies in selecting shades that avoid clichéd palettes. Brooke Speckman expresses her aversion to the 'classic mid-century modern design' pastels, such as baby pink kitchens or seafoam green bathroom vanities, finding them overly soft and uninspiring. The contemporary approach to pastels involves choosing subtler and less expected hues. Sara Malek Barney recommends softer and more gentle pastels, including serene blues, soft greens, or delicate lavenders, which can introduce tranquility and elegance without appearing overly trendy or dated. The use of bright accent colors is another trend that designers are moving away from. The accent wall, a paint trend that faded over a decade ago, often featured bold, high-contrast colors intended to make a statement. However, designers now find these vibrant shades can be overpowering and quickly become dated. Similarly, 'color pop' pillows and other highly contrasting accent ideas are being phased out. The current preference leans towards tighter, more cohesive color palettes, with color drenching and monochromatic schemes gaining popularity. For those who still wish to incorporate accents, the advice is to use more muted or sophisticated tones, such as deeper jewel tones or earthy hues, which contribute warmth and coziness without the jarring effect of overly bright accents. Finally, dark blue, once a dominant force in interior design with shades like Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue being highly sought after for moody schemes, is seeing a decline in usage. While not considered as overtly dated as cool grey, dark blue has made way for alternative dark color schemes. Interior designers are now frequently choosing rich, chocolate brown as a replacement for dark blue. Christina Rottman explains that browns possess a natural richness that feels less contrived compared to primary or secondary colors like dark green or dark blue, which can now appear dated. For those seeking timeless color choices to avoid future obsolescence, designers suggest classic neutrals like whites, beiges, and greys, which offer a versatile backdrop. Incorporating warm or cool undertones with these neutrals allows for custom ambiance. Additionally, earthy tones such as warm browns, soft greens, or muted terracotta are recommended for their ability to add depth, connect with nature, and create a calming, cozy atmosphere. #InteriorDesignTrends #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #ModernInteriors #NeutralPalettes #AccentColors #MillennialPink #CoolGrey #EarthyTones

The article discusses evolving color trends in bathroom design, highlighting five colors that designers consider outdated for 2024 and suggesting modern alternatives. The piece emphasizes the importance of selecting bathroom colors that contribute to a sanctuary-like atmosphere rather than a sterile one, aligning with the growing trend of treating bathrooms as extensions of living spaces. The first color to avoid is bright white. Designers now recommend warm whites or off-white shades with subtle undertones to create a more inviting and less clinical feel. The preference is to add texture through elements like wood or introduce color to prevent the bathroom from appearing boring, a common criticism of pure white bathrooms that were popular 8-10 years ago. Next, the article advises against using red. While red is generally challenging to incorporate throughout the home due to its intensity, it is particularly unsuitable for bathrooms where relaxation is key. Instead of bold red, designers suggest opting for spicy, brownish neutral shades like cinnamon or virtual taupe, which offer a deep, warm hue without being overpowering, fostering a cozy and earthy ambiance. Grey is another color identified as declining in popularity. Designers find it cold, gloomy, and overly formal. As an alternative, they propose "greige" (a warm version of grey) or integrating grey with a palette of warmer materials and finishes, such as unlacquered brass, marble, or wood. This approach aims to counteract the potentially moody and dark aspects of grey, making the space feel more balanced and inviting. Yellow, especially bright yellow, is also moving out of favor for bathroom paint. While it can bring a farmhouse aesthetic, its intensity is often seen as unflattering to complexions in functional spaces like bathrooms. Designers recommend replacing harsh yellows with rich, verdant greens, such as Yeabridge Green or Calke Green. These greens offer a natural, calming presence and create a pleasant contrast with white sanitary ware, providing warmth without making an overly strong design statement. Finally, the article warns against an overload of beige and tan. While neutral color schemes can be timeless, an excessive use of beige and tan can render a bathroom dull and uninspired. As a more appealing alternative, designers suggest pale pinks, particularly plaster pink. This shade is considered more exciting than tan, flattering to complexions, and contributes to an on-trend decorating scheme. Examples include playful striped wallpapers in pale pink to introduce a decorative element and break the monotony of plain walls. The article also provides examples of on-trend bathroom colors, including Gray Mirage, Pink 02 Matte, and Breakfast Room Green, offering practical suggestions for homeowners looking to update their bathroom aesthetics. #BathroomDesign #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintColors #ModernBathroom #DesignAdvice

The choice of curtain color can significantly influence a room's aesthetic. As of 2025, several curtain colors are considered outdated by interior designers, who instead recommend alternatives that align with current design sensibilities. These trends emphasize creating spaces that are dynamic, inviting, and reflective of modern preferences, moving away from overly safe or dull choices. One color falling out of favor is navy blue. While traditionally seen as a classic and neutral option, designers find it too safe and lacking excitement, potentially making a space feel uninteresting. The recommended alternative is a deep olive green. This earthy tone offers natural elegance and aligns with contemporary color trends that lean towards nature-inspired hues, providing stability while incorporating bold modern expressions. These greens can ground a room and introduce a subtle pop of color, especially when made from light and airy fabrics like linen. Solid white curtains are also becoming obsolete. While white is a timeless neutral, opaque solid white curtains are perceived as sterile and fail to contribute significant interest or warmth to a room. Designers advise opting for sheer curtains in warmer shades of white, such as ivory. These sheer fabrics allow for a tasteful diffusion of light, creating a more inviting ambiance. For added privacy, sheer curtains can be paired with Roman shades, offering both functionality and visual appeal. Gray, particularly dull shades, is another color designers suggest avoiding. Although gray offers versatility and neutrality, many now find it boring and uninteresting. Instead, earth tones like terracotta are recommended. Terracotta, with its burnt orange and red accents, brings warmth, energy, and a neutral pop of color, making a space feel welcoming. This shift reflects a broader movement towards warmer, nature-inspired palettes in home decor. Deep, moody reds are also losing their appeal due to their potential to overwhelm a space. While they can add interest, their intensity can easily transition from moody to overpowering if not styled carefully. Designers now suggest muted pastel shades like sage, dusty rose, or soft blues. These colors provide personality without overwhelming the room and contribute to a soft, calming aesthetic. The emphasis is also on lighter materials such as polyester, cotton, or linen, which allow gentle movement and prevent the heavy, ornate feel of traditional dark curtains. Finally, muted beige curtains are considered to make a room's design fall flat. While beige can be luxurious when textured and combined with appropriate decor, solid beige curtains often lack character and visual interest. Designers recommend stylized beige options with significant texture or, alternatively, darker shades of brown like sand, taupe, camel, or chocolate. These darker browns offer more visual interest and can create a desired moody ambiance, moving away from the often-boring impression of plain beige. Overall, the trend for curtain colors in 2025 points towards more dynamic, natural, and inviting options, with an emphasis on texture, warmth, and the ability to enhance a room's overall design rather than merely serving as functional window coverings. #CurtainColors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #DesignUpdates #ColorPalettes #ModernInteriors #EarthTones

The dynamic nature of interior design trends means that certain paint colors, once popular, may become less favored as new aesthetics emerge. As 2025 approaches, several shades are being phased out in favor of fresh alternatives that offer different moods and visual impacts. Interior designers are consistently seeking innovative ways to inspire home refreshes, and understanding these shifts can help individuals keep their living spaces feeling current and inviting. Gray, a long-standing favorite for contemporary homes, is now being replaced by softer, more welcoming hues like natural, pollen yellow. While gray has been explored in numerous tones, from steely to stone, its cooler undertones can create an impersonal and less inviting atmosphere. The shift towards rich, sandy yellows aims to introduce warmth and a more earthy, energetic feel. For instance, shades like Benjamin Moore's Summerdale Gold HC-17 can integrate a 'new neutral' that pairs well with tactile materials and offers a relaxed backdrop for abstract patterns and rich hues. Pure white, often seen as a classic and safe choice, is increasingly perceived as uninspiring and even stark. Designers suggest moving towards warm off-whites, creamy tones, or even bold, musty colors like burgundy to add character and coziness. While pure white can appear clinical, off-whites with subtle tints provide brightness without sterility, making rooms feel more inviting. Some designers also advocate for a complete departure from white, encouraging the selection of vibrant, statement-making colors for walls to embrace a bolder aesthetic. Green, which dominated interior trends for several years, has saturated the market with its various tones and applications, from mint to mossy. The extensive use of green in color drenching and specific areas like kitchens has led to its decline in popularity for 2025. In its place, dramatic yet earthy colors such as aubergine are gaining traction. This move aligns with a broader preference for warm palettes, but with a richer, more profound intensity than previous green trends. Similarly, blue, once celebrated for its calming and sophisticated connection to the natural world, is also seeing a decrease in its omnipresence. While dark blue tones can appear chic, cooler blues can sometimes feel sterile or monotonous, failing to stimulate energy in a space. A more contemporary alternative emerging is violet or lilac—a blend of blue and red—which offers a sophisticated and modern feel while retaining depth. This shift allows for the incorporation of rich jewel tones, providing both elegance and a sense of freshness. Finally, beige, a color distinct from warm off-whites, is considered bland and unexciting. While off-whites offer clarity and sophistication through their subtle color bases, beige belongs to the light brown family and has been largely surpassed by the variety of off-white options available. The prevailing trend now favors earthy tones, such as terracotta, which provide an organic feel and better connect indoor spaces with nature, offering character and warmth that beige often lacks. Ultimately, while trends offer inspiration, personal taste remains paramount in home decoration. The goal is to select colors that contribute to a space's evolution and provide a sense of comfort and satisfaction for its inhabitants. Experimenting with new colors, even in small accents initially, can lead to exciting refreshes and help adapt homes to evolving design sensibilities. #PaintColors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ColorTrends2025 #NeutralPaints #WarmPalettes #ColorSwaps #ModernInteriors #DesignInspiration

The selection of interior colors is a critical element in home design, capable of significantly impacting the longevity and aesthetic appeal of a space. While certain color palettes may gain widespread popularity, they can also quickly become outdated, leading to interiors that feel dated or uninspired. This discussion delves into several colors that designers are increasingly moving away from, offering contemporary alternatives that align with current preferences for warmth, comfort, and sophisticated versatility. Gray, once a ubiquitous neutral, is now largely considered an outdated choice. Its cool undertones can evoke feelings of self-doubt and instability, making spaces feel impersonal and even depressive. The current trend strongly favors warmer neutrals, particularly beige, which offers a soft, timeless appeal. Beige brightens rooms while exuding a sense of flawlessness and offers greater flexibility for integrating colorful art, accent furnishings, and antique pieces. Designers suggest that if gray must be used, warmer, more complex shades should be chosen to add depth and dimension, but beige remains the preferred option for its comforting and versatile qualities. Pure white, despite its potential for purity and simplicity, is another color that is losing favor as a dominant scheme. When used extensively, white can create clinical, cold, and impersonal environments. Color psychologists note that while white can reduce visual clutter, it may also lead to a sense of emotional shutdown. As an alternative, mood-boosting yellows are recommended. Yellow shades introduce a touch of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of sun-drenched days, and can uplift the mood of a room. It functions effectively as both an accent color and a primary hue, pairing beautifully with monochrome elements for a modern look or with soft greens for a natural, calming effect. Deep purple, historically associated with royalty, is now viewed as overbearing and gloomy if not implemented meticulously. Its intensity can be imposing, especially in poorly lit or smaller spaces. A more contemporary and versatile alternative is lilac, a softer, less dominating shade. Lilac provides a soothing and gentle atmosphere, drawing inspiration from natural elements like wisteria and heather. This subtle shift allows for more diverse color combinations and contributes to serene interior designs. Harsh red is another color that designers are advising against for primary use in interiors. Red is often linked to stress responses, such as increased heart rate and heightened senses, and is frequently used in warning signals due to its intense and stimulating nature. While acknowledging red's potential to make a house appear expensive, the preference is shifting towards paler, more natural variations. Shades like Sherwin Williams’ Redend Point, a subtle, earthy red akin to clay, are favored for their contemporary warmth and ability to harmonize with natural environments. These gentler reds work with, rather than against, the natural surroundings, offering sophistication without the intensity of traditional reds. Finally, overbearing orange is being phased out due to its overstimulating qualities. Like red, orange can be too energetic for restful areas like bedrooms, potentially disrupting sleep and encouraging an overactive imagination. Instead of bold oranges, decorating with pink is suggested as a warmer and more inviting option. Rosy shades provide a versatile backdrop for bolder colors and can infuse a space with warmth and comfort. Pinks with orange or ochre undertones can be paired with bright reds or white for harmonious yet uplifting schemes, or with azure blue, navy, and Indian green for a balanced effect. Ultimately, the choice of room color should prioritize creating a joyous and revitalizing environment. Color is a cost-effective and vital element in home design, deserving careful consideration to ensure that the chosen palette contributes positively to the overall feel and longevity of the interior. #InteriorDesignTrends #ColorPsychology #HomeDecorIdeas #PaintColors #NeutralPalettes #WarmColors #MoodBoostingColors #OutdatedColors

The article explores the top five paint color trends for 2024, moving away from stark white interiors and redefining neutrals. Interior designers advocate for embracing richer, more saturated tones that add individuality, luxury, and warmth to living spaces. This shift challenges the common belief that lighter colors always enlarge a room, with designers now using deeper shades to create an illusion of more space and a more intimate atmosphere. Darker tones such as deep charcoal, inky navy, and sophisticated shades of forest green and burgundy are expected to be prominent. Another significant trend is the use of contrasting ceilings. While monochromatic color drenching (painting walls and ceilings the same color) has been popular, experts predict that painting ceilings a contrasting color, even a pale gray, will become a key design element. This technique can make a room feel more tailored and highlight architectural details like crown molding. An example provided in the article illustrates how home influencer Imani Keal successfully used contrasting colors on her office ceiling and doors, along with different wall colors, finding it to be a cost-effective and time-efficient method compared to painting the entire room one solid color. Green hues are also highlighted as a timeless trend that continues to gain popularity. Shades like sage and peppermint are praised for their grounding and peaceful qualities, bringing a refreshing outdoor feel indoors. The article suggests incorporating floral accent walls with green tones to complement existing plant arrangements, creating a harmonious and natural environment. For minimalists who still prefer neutral palettes, the article notes that beige and tan will evolve into warmer variations in 2024. Interior designer Lindye Galloway anticipates that colors like taupe and darker creams will take center stage, offering a cozier and more welcoming ambiance. The author also suggests expanding the definition of neutrals to include greens like sage, encouraging wider adoption of these calming tones. Finally, limewash and plaster finishes are identified as a growing trend, offering a sophisticated way to add texture without relying on bold colors. Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints, explains that while Venetian plaster and faux finishes were once in vogue, modern trends lean towards tastefully blending old and new. Textured walls, such as those created with limewash or Roman clay, provide an element of design without overwhelming the space with intense colors. An example is given of a home influencer using diluted regular paint to achieve a limewash effect in her dining room, demonstrating a DIY-friendly approach to this trend. #PaintColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RichColors #ContrastingCeilings #GreenHues #NewNeutrals #LimewashTechnique #DIYHomeImprovement

As the new year approaches, Southern design professionals are sharing their insights into paint color trends for 2025, specifically highlighting practices they believe homeowners should move away from. While acknowledging that any color can be beautiful when used correctly, these experts point out common pitfalls and outdated approaches to interior painting. One significant trend designers are ready to ditch is the excessive reliance on all-white interiors. Mary Frantz Roberts of Dunn & Hall Interiors notes that while white is a dependable choice, its overuse can strip a home of its potential personality. Kelly Neely, a decorator from Birmingham, Alabama, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that rooms with color and depth are generally more inviting and intimate, though she doesn't advocate for entirely abandoning white. Another overlooked area, according to designers, is the ceiling. Niki McNeill Brown, a Raleigh designer, suggests that homeowners frequently miss opportunities to add character and visual interest by not painting their ceilings in engaging colors. Frantz Roberts supports this, explaining that bold and colorful walls or ceilings can make a significant impact on a room's aesthetic in a cost-effective manner. The article also highlights a shift away from cool-toned color palettes. Becky Nielsen Filipski, a Nashville designer, is ready to move past gray and stark white, observing a growing preference for warmer whites in areas like trim and kitchens. She specifically recommends Benjamin Moore's Linen White (912). Sarah Stacey, an Austin designer, explains that while cool whites initially appear clean, they often result in a sterile atmosphere, contrasting with the current desire for welcoming and layered spaces. Jessica Maros of MAROS Designs in Dallas advises against cool gray tones, favoring a warmer, inviting 'greige' to add depth and sophistication. For those still inclined towards gray, she suggests incorporating warmer undertones to maintain a fresh and welcoming feel. Erin Sander, another Dallas designer, is embracing earth tones like olive, clay, amber, and brown, finding that these hues naturally complement wood tones and textures, aligning with a relaxed and refined aesthetic. Finally, designers are encouraging a move away from overly saturated paint shades. Cyndy Cantley, a Birmingham designer, notes that while vibrant colors like saturated pinks, oranges, or reds can be fun, they risk making a room feel overexposed. Instead, she advocates for more muted versions of these colors, which contribute to a calmer and more serene home environment, a quality she believes many people are seeking. #PaintColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPalettes #DesignTips #WarmTones #NeutralColors #CeilingPaint #SouthernDesign

Interior design firm Pierce and Ward, known for coining the term 'ugly colors,' asserts that incorporating underappreciated muddy tones is essential for dialing down overly 'pretty' aesthetics in homes. These 'ugly' colors, often misunderstood and avoided in interior design, include dirty, earthy, and muddy shades such as ochre, rust, lime green, dark brown, and arsenic. These hues, while considered unappealing by some, are experiencing a surge in popularity due to their comforting qualities, which are particularly relevant as people spend more time in their homes, seeking warm and cocooning spaces. Dark brown, often underplayed, offers unexpected richness and complexity. As a dark neutral, earthy brown provides a grounding effect while exuding sophistication. It demonstrates versatility by either standing alone as a striking color or serving as an elegant backdrop that allows other hues to pop. Inspired by global travel, this season’s decorating trends integrate a rich palette of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and ochre, all contributing warmth and depth to interiors. Interior designers like Nicola Harding advocate for its use, especially darker tones, for creating sharp contrasts, and highlight its electric effect when paired with blue. Mustard, another color often overlooked, is presented as more than just a condiment. Earthy mustard yellow is lauded for its ability to create rich and enveloping rooms, offering a sense of a warm embrace. Patrick O’Donnell, brand ambassador for Farrow & Ball, suggests its suitability for kitchens or offices due to its energetic, happy, and optimistic qualities, while advising against its use in bedrooms to promote rest. Sarah Brown, founder of Sarah Brown Interiors, recommends mustard as an accent color, particularly for inside cupboards or pantries, to provide an uplifting surprise. She notes its effectiveness in darker, moodier spaces where it can introduce warmth and intrigue, serving as an elegant and sophisticated backdrop for artwork and antiques. Lime green, despite frequently appearing on 'ugly color' lists, is championed for its joyful and buoyant nature. As a primary color of nature, green typically brings calm and serenity, making it suitable for any room. Henriette Von Stockhausen, co-founder of VSP Interiors, suggests using vibrant lime green piping to lighten the mood in more restrained schemes, highlighting its ability to add attention to detail and a sense of humor without overpowering the space. Its energizing and exciting qualities can also be softened effectively with white and pale blue, creating unique atmospheres through unusual color pairings. Beige, which suffered an unfair reputation for being boring in the 90s and early 2000s, is now being re-evaluated for its capacity to add warmth and elegance. Its neutral color palette, inspired by the natural world, offers a gentle and soothing touch that can be layered with textures and tones to adapt with the seasons. The article emphasizes that a neutral palette does not equate to boring; instead, it can create an interesting and exciting space through the layering of different tones, such as off-whites and beige, with accents of caramels and even black. Rust and terracotta, historically associated with decay and aging, are now recognized for their ability to inject warmth and depth into interiors. These earthy colors, ranging from rich red to orange, evoke the sun-baked surfaces of warmer climates, drawing inspiration from ancient civilizations. Terracotta, derived from 'terra cocta' (baked earth), is described as a giving shade that can act as an accent or a main backdrop. Its character provides an all-year-round mood of warmth, reminiscent of Spanish and Italian architecture, bringing summer warmth even on gloomy days through rich terracotta, umber, and orange shades. #InteriorDesignTrends #UglyColors #ColorPsychology #HomeDecor #EarthyTones #DarkBrown #MustardYellow #LimeGreen #BeigeDecor #Terracotta

This article discusses kitchen color trends that are becoming outdated for 2024 and suggests alternative shades favored by designers and color experts. The author emphasizes that while personal preference should guide decor decisions, understanding current trends can offer a useful starting point for kitchen design choices. The piece highlights five specific color shifts, moving from traditionally popular hues to more contemporary and enduring options. The first color discussed is forest green, which is deemed to be 'done' despite its past popularity. While previously considered a bold choice, its widespread use has rendered it somewhat bland. The recommended replacement is sage green, a lighter, more muted, and calming shade that is almost neutral. Designers note sage green's ability to promote a balanced mindset and connect with nature, making it a timeless choice. Additionally, 'apple' green shades, which are more vivid and fresh, are identified as an emerging trend to watch. Next, the article addresses brown tones, particularly in the context of all-wooden kitchens. While natural wood textures are consistently on-trend, an all-brown kitchen can risk feeling like a 'sauna.' The suggested alternative is crisp white, often paired with warm wood elements to create contrast and prevent a sterile appearance. For instance, pairing warm white oak lower cabinets with walls painted in a soft, light taupe like Benjamin Moore's Pale Oak and upper cabinets in a crisp white like Oxford White by Benjamin Moore provides depth and highlights the wood's natural beauty. The third color shift concerns grey kitchens. Mid-tone grey, which has been popular for a long time, is now considered cold and less desirable. Instead, designers advocate for either very dark charcoal grey, which remains a classic and looks stylish with brass accents, or warmer greige tones. Greige, a blend of grey and beige, offers a softer, gentler, and more livable neutral that is suitable for various styles and has seen a surge in popularity. Cool white is identified as the fourth color going out of style, particularly pure brilliant white, which often appears stark unless in a space with abundant natural light. The preference has shifted to warm whites, creams, and even beiges, which are described as more inviting, livable, and timeless. These warmer undertoned whites work well with diverse styles and provide a chic foundation for kitchen design, as exemplified by Benjamin Moore's Simply White. Finally, navy blue kitchens, once a dominant trend, are now less favored as interior design moves towards softer, more livable spaces. Navy's tendency to dominate a room and its limited versatility with other colors are reasons for its decline. The recommended alternative is light blue, specifically muted or pastel-like shades. These lighter blues offer a fresh and chic aesthetic without the overwhelming presence of darker, bolder tones. Overall, the article concludes that warm, toasty neutrals like beige, creams, and soft whites offer longevity and serve as excellent backdrops for incorporating character and texture. #KitchenColors #InteriorDesignTrends #KitchenDesign #ColorTrends2024 #HomeDecor #KitchenRenovation #NeutralColors #KitchenCabinetry

The new year is often a time for home improvement projects, and many individuals consider updating their living spaces with a fresh coat of paint. Paint industry experts are providing guidance on which colors to discard and which to embrace in 2025 to ensure interiors remain on-trend. The general consensus indicates a shift away from cool neutrals, such as grays, blacks, and stark whites, towards warmer, richer, and more earthy tones. Gray, despite its long-standing status as a classic neutral, is seeing a decline in its trendiness. Experts suggest replacing grays and cool-toned neutrals with warm neutrals like modern beiges and taupes. Khaki shades, particularly Stucco from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, are expected to be popular in 2025, as consumers seek comfort and simplicity in their homes and prefer neutral backdrops over excessive decor. Black hues, previously a popular choice for adding dramatic elements, are also losing their appeal. Instead, the focus is shifting towards chocolate brown tones, which offer similar drama but with a softer aesthetic. This preference for deep browns aligns with current street style trends, and these saturated hues are recommended for their ability to evoke warmth and mood in any space. Cool tones in general are predicted to be out, making way for warm reds and purples. Erika Woelfel, BEHR’s VP of color and creative services, highlights the emotional depth and cultural relevance of these colors, noting that BEHR selected Rumors, a deep ruby red, as its 2025 Color of the Year. The demand for vibrancy and richness in environments is driving this trend, with these colors offering a dynamic and bold presence in both home interiors and fashion. Stark whites are another color experts suggest phasing out. Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints, anticipates a move from stark whites and grays to more saturated, earthy colors such as rich browns, blues, and greens. This shift aims to create cozier and more inviting interiors. Butter yellow, which was a significant trend in the spring and summer, is expected to continue its popularity in 2025. Ashley Banbury notes that pastel yellows with green undertones, such as Convivial Yellow, will be favored for their grounded and Earth-connected feel. Finally, the trend of painting accent walls is being replaced by a technique called double-drenching. This method involves painting an entire space in a monochromatic color scheme, where walls are coated in one hue, and ceilings and architectural details, like crown molding, are painted in a lighter or darker shade from the same palette. This approach allows for a new way to express color in the home, moving beyond traditional accent walls. #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends2025 #WarmNeutrals #ChocolateBrown #EarthyHues #DoubleDrenching #HomeDecor #Renovation

The article discusses paint color trends for 2025, highlighting five specific colors that interior designers predict will fall out of favor. The premise acknowledges that personal preference in color should always take precedence, but notes that certain hues can definitively anchor a room to a particular time period, citing examples such as 1970s bright orange, 1990s Tuscan-inspired brick red and mustard yellow, early 2000s turquoise, and mid-2010s cool gray. The first color identified as being on its way out is navy blue. While previously a common choice for coastal and glam interiors, designers like Barrie Spang of Sapphire Pear suggest that its overuse, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, will lead to its decline in popularity. Cool gray is another color that designers have been signaling as passé for several years. Sarah Pickard, an interior designer, states that there is a widespread fatigue with cool gray, and a return to warmer tones is anticipated. She recommends opting for warm taupe or beige instead, offering a more welcoming aesthetic compared to the austerity of cool gray. Black, which has been a popular choice across various home styles, from modern farmhouses to Victorian designs, is also expected to recede. Pickard notes that dark browns will likely replace stark black tones. These dark browns offer a similar depth but introduce a warmth that aligns with the desired cozy and relaxed ambiance for spaces in 2025. Purple, which saw a significant resurgence in 2024 across various shades from vivid violet to light lavender, is another color predicted to trend downwards. Cristiana Crin, founder and director of design at Perpetuum Designs, explicitly states that variations of purple will not be a trend in 2025, although the article notes that this prediction is still under observation. Finally, sage green, a long-standing favorite in the design world for its calming and nostalgic qualities, is also expected to take a temporary backseat. Heather Goerzen, director of design and content at Havenly, forecasts that dusty blues will emerge as a replacement for sage green. These dusty blues, reminiscent of a dawn sky or ocean depths, are intended to create tranquil, open, fresh, and optimistic spaces. #PaintColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPalettes #DesignersForecast #2025Trends #HomeStyling

The year 2025 embraced a dynamic palette of colors, with various shades experiencing their moment in the spotlight, despite being touted as the year of the 'anti-trend'. From rich cherry reds and deep burgundies to soft buttery yellows, warm chocolate browns, and refreshing teals, specific hues captivated attention within interior design. However, as 2026 approaches, the design landscape is shifting, prompting a reevaluation of which of these once-popular color trends are beginning to feel outdated. Interior designers and color experts indicate a discernible movement away from overly saturated and vibrant tones towards more muted, nuanced, and sophisticated versions of these playful colors. This transition reflects a desire for interiors that offer longevity, warmth, and a grounded feel, moving beyond fleeting trends. One significant color trend identified as becoming outdated is 'Overdone Forest Greens'. While decorating with green has been popular, the vibrant forest green is losing its appeal for 2026. Designers like Jessica Nicastro and Hannah Goldberg note that these shades have been extensively used, leading to a sense of fatigue among consumers. The prevailing preference is now for 'in-between colors' such as moody teals, exemplified by Benjamin Moore's Oasis Blue and Behr's Hidden Gem. These offer a more nuanced and modern alternative. Additionally, there is a growing appreciation for earthier, muddier shades of green, like softened olive or moss-toned hues, which are emerging as new neutrals. These sophisticated tones effortlessly integrate with natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen, imparting quiet elegance and timelessness to any space. Farrow & Ball's Card Room Green is suggested as a balanced option, combining earthiness with a hint of vibrancy. Another color falling out of favor is 'Saturated Mustard Yellow'. This shade, which experienced a resurgence as part of the 70s-inspired vintage design movement, is now considered overused and oversaturated. The extensive production and widespread application across mass-market furniture and decor items have diminished its original freshness. For 2026, the trend is moving towards richer, more nuanced yellow tones that convey a sense of grounding and refinement. Alternatives like ochre, raw umber, and warm caramel are favored. These hues retain the beloved warmth of mustard yellow but offer greater depth and sophistication, aligning with a more elevated and timeless interior aesthetic. For those who still prefer lighter yellows, soft butter yellow continues to hold appeal, positioned as a nostalgic shade that is just a step away from traditional neutrals. The third outdated trend is 'Artificial Shades'. Fabric designer Bernie de Le Cuona suggests that 'laboratory and artificial colors' are starting to feel out of place in contemporary interiors. While these bold and vibrant shades made a strong statement in previous years, they are now perceived as harsh, fleeting, and lacking the enduring quality that homeowners increasingly seek. Designers Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kobel + Co echo this sentiment, stating that bright, overly pigmented colors can appear flat or excessively graphic in modern interiors, failing to provide the subtlety and depth desired. The current shift is towards 'muddy colors'—earthy hues that feel lived-in and nuanced. These slightly desaturated tones still introduce color and energy but with a sophistication and warmth that feels far more current and relaxed. In essence, the color trends for 2026 emphasize a departure from overly done or artificial brights towards a more refined, grounded, and subtly complex palette. This encourages the use of earthy greens, rusty oranges, ochre yellows, and deep burgundies, ensuring spaces feel current, sophisticated, and timeless. #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #OutdatedColors #ModernInteriors #EarthyTones #DesignForecast #DecoratingTips #ColorPsychology

The article discusses five kitchen cabinet colors that interior designers are moving away from in 2024 and suggests alternative shades and approaches. Kitchens represent a significant investment, making the initial color choice crucial for long-term satisfaction. The article highlights that while personal style is important, a degree of conservatism can help design choices stand the test of time, ensuring a fresh look for years. Navy blue, once a classic and luxurious choice, is identified as a color losing its appeal. Designers are noting a shift towards more versatile and contemporary palettes. Instead of the deep, regal tones of navy, the recommendation is for a layered approach using cobalt blue accents or a lighter, more soothing blue for cabinets. Cobalt blue can introduce energy, but caution is advised to avoid overwhelming the space, suggesting its use in smaller details rather than entire wall applications. Sherwin Williams's 2024 Color of the Year, Upward SW 6239, a light and breezy blue, is presented as an example of a soothing alternative that offers a coastal chic vibe. Red is another color facing a decline in popularity for large-scale kitchen applications. Historically used for accent walls, red is now being incorporated in smaller doses, such as in marble backsplashes with red tones or through accessories like retro toasters or kitchen island chairs. When red is used in paint, designers are opting for toned-down versions like terracotta or brick shades, which offer a warm and cozy feel without the intensity of brighter reds. Beige, a staple in neutral kitchen palettes for years, is also experiencing a decrease in demand. Homeowners are increasingly seeking to introduce more color and interest into their homes, moving away from light neutral paint colors. The article notes a revived appreciation for wood in kitchen trends, with white oak, walnut, and sustainable options like bamboo gaining popularity. There is a preference for natural and clear finishes that highlight the wood's inherent beauty, although dark stains and whitewashed treatments also remain in demand. Darker wood tones are particularly highlighted as a growing trend, replacing the cream and beige tones that were popular in the previous decade. Bright white kitchens, despite their clean and modern aesthetic, are becoming less favored. This trend, often associated with a sterile and cold appearance, is giving way to designs that emphasize warmth and personality. Younger segments of the market are reacting against overly plain white kitchens by experimenting with color and texture. The article mentions a move away from the "modern farmhouse kitchen" aesthetic towards vivid hues, cutting-edge materials, and imaginative layouts. Complex white shades with warmer undertones are gaining traction, with pale yellow experiencing a renaissance, offering an uplifting, sunny, and airy feel. Finally, black and dark grey kitchens, which have dominated trends for a while, are also evolving. Designers are moving away from jet black towards softer shades, as very dark colors can make a space feel smaller and can become visually boring over time. While dark shades can still add depth, the article suggests dark green cabinetry as an alternative to jet black. Dark green can provide a moody and deep aesthetic without the negative effect of shrinking the space. However, designers caution against the fleeting nature of trends, recommending that dark greens be layered with warm whites and wood tones to aid longevity and prevent them from quickly becoming outdated. Lacquer paint is also noted for adding an extra sheen and depth to green kitchens. #KitchenDesign #CabinetColors #InteriorDesignTrends #ColorPalettes #HomeDecor #KitchenRenovation #ModernKitchens

The article discusses five paint trends that interior designers consider outdated and suggests modern alternatives. It highlights how paint, despite being a transformative and temporary decorating tool, sees trends evolve rapidly. The first trend identified as outdated is the use of white trim with colorful walls. Interior designers now prefer painting trim the same color as the walls to create a cohesive, larger-feeling space through "color drenching." While tonal contrasts for trim can still work, the specific combination of colorful walls and stark white trim is seen as basic and passé. The second outdated trend is the accent wall. Designers note that this approach is becoming less popular as homeowners move towards more balanced and cohesive color schemes. Instead of accent walls, the article suggests creating visual interest through other design elements such as artwork, textured wallpapers, or architectural details like doors, window reveals, or even ceilings. These elements can act as focal points without the disjointed feel of a single accent wall. Thirdly, painting ceilings white while walls are colored is also considered an old-fashioned concept. Interior designer Kelly Hoppen suggests painting ceilings the same color as the walls to create an illusion of greater space and height, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the room. A white ceiling is only recommended when the walls are also white; otherwise, an accent color on the ceiling is preferred for visual impact. The fourth trend designers are moving away from is faux paint effects, such as those imitating Tuscan plaster or distressed textures. While textured finishes have recently seen a resurgence, these specific faux effects are deemed dated. To achieve a more sophisticated and modern look, the article advises using smooth finishes with complementary color palettes. For those desiring texture, more classic options like grasscloth wallpaper or decorative wall panels are recommended as alternatives that will not date as quickly. Finally, geometric murals, particularly those with strong, angular forms, are no longer favored by designers. These designs are often perceived as DIY-looking and are a departure from the current preference for softer, more organic design elements. For individuals interested in murals, the advice is to opt for designs incorporating circles, arches, and waves. Alternatively, wallpaper with interesting patterns or textures is presented as a more modern and effective way to add depth, personality, and a unique touch to a space, serving as a focal point or contributing to a cohesive design scheme. #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorDrenching #AccentWalls #CeilingPaint #FauxFinishes #WallMurals #ModernInteriors

The article outlines nine specific colors that interior designers are avoiding in living room designs for 2025, offering alternatives to help homeowners create contemporary and inviting spaces. The overarching theme is a shift away from overused or sterile hues towards warmer, more nuanced, and grounding tones. This trend reflects a desire for comfort, sophistication, and a deeper connection to nature in home environments. Cool gray, often associated with the 'millennial gray' trend and the farmhouse aesthetic, is identified as a color that designers are no longer using. It is criticized for making spaces feel sterile and dated. Instead, warmer neutrals like taupe or mushroom beige are recommended to create a more comforting and layered ambiance, offering versatility with added depth. Pure red, despite its brief popularity with the 'unexpected red' trend, is also out of favor for living rooms due to its overwhelming nature. Designers suggest burnt sienna, an earthy red with brown undertones, as a more refined alternative. This shade provides warmth without intensity and can be used extensively, even for color drenching, creating a more grounding and livable feel. Navy blue, traditionally a classic color combination when paired with white, is now considered overused and capable of making small living rooms feel confined. A deeper, smoky blue-black with green undertones is proposed as a substitute. This alternative maintains a sumptuous quality while offering more nuance and adaptability, aligning with a desire for softer, more sophisticated palettes. Sage green, prevalent for nearly a decade, is deemed predictable. While its natural origins ensure some relevance, it is no longer a leading color trend. Deep olive green, a richer and earthier alternative, is recommended for its sophistication and grounding presence, offering a more luxurious and expensive feel compared to its pastel counterpart. Dusty rose, once embraced for its romantic aesthetic and used as a neutral, is now considered overdone and delicate. Natural terracotta blush tones are suggested as a contemporary replacement. These warm, earthy pinks provide a grounding effect and a richer, more sophisticated feel, reminiscent of raw plaster or baked clay, and serve as an excellent foundation color. Bright white is explicitly avoided for relaxing spaces like living rooms, as it can appear clinical and uninviting. Instead, off-white shades with hints of yellow, gray, or brown, such as chalky bone white, are preferred. These alternatives offer warmth and subtle richness, creating a more inviting and layered look that pairs well with natural textures. Hunter green, though alluring and often paired with wood tones for an organic look, is viewed as contrived and heavy for living rooms. Designers suggest deep green-black tones or rich earthy juniper as more contemporary choices. These shades offer a softer, more organic feel that connects with biophilic design and provides a timeless elegance. Mustard yellow, a millennial favorite often used as an accent with cool gray, is now considered dated and not versatile enough. Richer, caramel-toned alternatives or its use alongside other warm earthy shades like ochre and burgundy are recommended. Soft honey gold is highlighted for delivering warmth and vibrancy in a refined, livable manner, complementing natural woods and earth tones. Finally, eggplant purple, once valued for its playful and luxurious appeal, is criticized for lacking the nuance desired in 2025 living rooms. Mulberry brown, a softer, red-based brown, is suggested as a refined alternative that brings warmth and depth. Other options include sumptuous oxblood or burgundy, particularly when applied with a high gloss finish on millwork and trim, to update and refresh living room aesthetics.

The selection of tile colors significantly influences a room's ambiance and its ability to remain timeless, making it crucial to understand which colors are fading in popularity for 2025. Interior designers emphasize that tile color is not merely an aesthetic choice but also contributes to the architectural memory, setting the tone, scale, and mood of a space. Whether handmade or precision-cut, tiles should harmoniously serve the living environment. This article, featuring insights from experts like Rachel Blindauer, Elana Mendelson, Kym Terranova, and Jo Rich, identifies five tile colors that are officially becoming outdated in 2025, offering guidance for those undertaking bathroom remodels or other tiling projects who aim for a contemporary yet enduring design. Cool gray tiles, once a popular choice, are now considered sterile and overdone. The design landscape is shifting towards warmer, more inviting tones. Interior designers suggest that warmer neutrals such as greige or taupe offer softer and more welcoming alternatives to cool gray. Natural terracotta or unglazed clay tiles are also recommended for those seeking neutral options with a cozier feel, reflecting a broader trend away from stark, cool palettes. Glossy white tiles, historically favored for their clean appearance and ability to visually expand a room, are also losing their appeal. They are increasingly perceived as sterile and uninviting, akin to the dated cool gray. Designers propose replacing these with tiles that possess more character, such as soft beige options. Large format matte porcelain tiles in a soft dove gray are highlighted as a superior alternative, as their matte finish eliminates the sheen and glare that can make a room feel clinical, thus adding depth and sophistication. Traditional white marble, despite its long-standing popularity, is beginning to take a backseat in 2025. While elegant, it is now often viewed as overused and too blank. Homeowners and designers are gravitating towards warmer natural stones like travertine or limestone, which offer comparable elegance but with enhanced texture and character. The concern is not with marble itself, but with the specific type that lacks warmth and depth. The article suggests exploring other marble variations, such as those with seaspray greens or amiable soft yellows, browns, and blues, to create a more inviting atmosphere. Navy tiles, previously admired for their timelessness in various design contexts like modern farmhouse and coastal styles, are also on the decline. Designers note that navy, being a dominant color, can limit a room's longevity and adaptability with changing trends in metal finishes or wood tones. For individuals passionate about incorporating blue, the recommendation is to opt for more versatile shades such as blue-greens, French gray-blues, or moody indigos with earthy undertones, ensuring better integration and a more enduring aesthetic. Finally, brown-beige tiles, reminiscent of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are expected to see a significant decrease in use. Once considered earthy and versatile, they are now often viewed as drab and overly dark. The trend is moving towards lighter taupes that offer a fresher and more contemporary feel. A simple shift in hue, perhaps complemented by houseplants, can transform a once-uninspiring space into a thoughtfully tiled and vibrant oasis, illustrating how subtle changes in tile color can dramatically impact a home's overall feel. #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ColorTrends #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign #OutdatedColors #ModernInteriors #DesignAdvice

The perception of entryways is evolving from a mere focus on order and calm to becoming crucial first-impression points that reflect individual expression and warmth. This shift implies a move away from cooler colors like white, grey, and navy blue towards more vibrant, earth-based tones such as browns, greens, and reds. Selecting appropriate paint colors for an entryway can be challenging, especially given the significant influence color has on mood. The goal is to create a welcoming and calming atmosphere for both residents and guests. Traditionally, cool colors have been associated with calmness, tranquility, and uniformity, yet they risk creating a sense of apathy if not balanced properly. The emerging trend suggests a solution rooted in color theory: incorporating warmth. Repainting an entryway every two to three years presents an opportune moment to embrace this trend. Forward-looking designers are championing warm shades, with browns, particularly those resembling coffee and chocolate, being prominent. For example, Pantone's 2025 color of the year is Mocha Mousse, while Stainmaster has chosen Truffle and Little Green features Mochi, which has subtle pink undertones. To ensure a cohesive flow throughout the home, the entryway's color should complement the existing palette. For homes with a predominance of whites and grays, a warmed-up version of these colors, such as a dreamy cream or a greige with strong brown undertones, can create a smooth transition. Similarly, for homes featuring blues, a teal green or purple shade can provide a natural progression into the main living areas, as mixing blue and brown can yield purplish or sea-green hues, which are also popular choices for 2025. Another highly recommended color for 2025 is green, offering a vibrant alternative to the formerly popular navy. Bright and playful colors are regaining popularity in home trends, with various shades of green, from emerald to moss, bringing nature's essence indoors. Green's versatility stems from its natural prevalence, making it feel organic and familiar. A bold forest green can make a striking statement in an entryway, while tempering more saturated greens with grey or blue can help maintain a connection with the rest of the house without necessitating a complete repainting. Ocean blues, being more complex and nature-inspired than true navy, align well with current trends. However, since greens can lean cool, it is advisable to incorporate warm elements such as wood tones, rust colors, and rich, earthy reds to balance the overall aesthetic. Red paint, despite its intensity and association with strong emotions like love, passion, or anger, is also making a comeback in more subdued forms. A bright, fire-engine red might not be suitable for an entryway, but muddier versions are gaining traction. Behr paint, for instance, named Rumors, a dark red with brown undertones, as its color of the year. With color drenching being a significant trend for 2025, one could opt for a bold, toned-down berry shade throughout the entryway. Alternatively, incorporating classic white, already present in other parts of the house, can lead to a pink-toned cream. The future of entryway decoration emphasizes personality and warmth. Therefore, it is suggested to reconsider painting entryways gray and instead utilize the space to introduce warm colors that are already highlighted elsewhere in the house. Adding functional and artistic pieces can further enhance the entryway's inviting ambiance, personalizing the space and making it truly feel like home. #EntrywayDesign #PaintColors2025 #InteriorDesignTrends #WarmColorPalettes #HomeDecor #ColorPsychology #DesignHacks #HomeStyling