Experts

In recent years, a renewed appreciation for traditional British craftsmanship has been sweeping across the design world. From interiors and furniture to ceramics and textiles, contemporary designers are turning to the time-honoured techniques of the past, breathing new life into classic skills while marrying them with modern sensibilities. In 2025, this revival is not just a nostalgic trend — it reflects a deeper desire for quality, sustainability, and authenticity in a world dominated by mass production.

We spoke with leading designers who are at the forefront of this movement, exploring how they are preserving, evolving, and celebrating Britain’s rich craft heritage.

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Rediscovering Lost Techniques

The revival of British craftsmanship often begins with a deep dive into history. Designers are seeking out techniques that were once commonplace but are now rare:

• Joinery and woodworking: Traditional methods such as hand-cut dovetails and marquetry are being used to craft bespoke furniture that is both functional and artistic.

• Textiles: Handweaving, embroidery, and traditional dyeing methods are experiencing a resurgence, with designers creating bespoke fabrics for interiors and fashion alike.

• Metalwork and ceramics: Forging, casting, and hand-throwing techniques are being reinterpreted to produce contemporary lighting, fixtures, and decorative items.

As one designer explains, “We study historical methods not to copy them blindly, but to understand their logic, elegance, and durability, and then reinterpret them for modern lifestyles.”

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Bridging Past and Present

A key challenge in reviving classic craftsmanship is balancing authenticity with contemporary relevance. Designers emphasise that heritage techniques must serve current needs, not just function as decorative nostalgia.

• Functionality meets artistry: Hand-carved cabinetry is designed to suit modern storage requirements, while handwoven fabrics are engineered for durability in high-traffic areas.

• Aesthetic reinterpretation: Classic motifs are reimagined in subtle textures, patterns, and proportions to suit contemporary interiors.

• Material innovation: Designers often combine traditional methods with modern materials — such as recycled metals, sustainable timber, and eco-friendly dyes — enhancing performance without losing craftsmanship integrity.

This fusion of old and new ensures that British craftsmanship remains both timeless and relevant.

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Supporting Local Artisans

Central to this revival is collaboration with skilled artisans, many of whom have inherited knowledge passed down through generations. Designers highlight the importance of sustaining local skills and economies:

• Apprenticeships and workshops: Young designers are trained by master craftspeople, ensuring continuity of expertise.

• Collaborative projects: Designers work closely with artisans to co-create bespoke pieces that embody both tradition and innovation.

• Fair compensation: Ethical production models are emphasised, recognising the time, skill, and dedication involved in handcrafting items.

By fostering these partnerships, the movement contributes to the preservation of skills that might otherwise disappear.

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As 2025 unfolds, the UK’s design scene is buzzing with fresh ideas, emerging trends, and bold experiments in interiors, furniture, and living spaces. Leading British designers are already looking ahead, offering their predictions for the year’s most influential aesthetics, materials, and approaches. From colour palettes and textures to technology and sustainability, their insights reveal a future-focused yet timeless approach to interiors that balances comfort, style, and purpose.

Here, we share the top predictions from some of the UK’s most respected designers, exploring what 2025 has in store for homes, commercial interiors, and creative spaces.

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1. Earthy Colours Take Centre Stage

Across the board, designers agree that earthy tones are dominating 2025 interiors. Think warm terracotta, muted ochres, soft moss greens, and gentle clay hues.

“People are craving a connection to nature inside their homes,” says a London-based colour consultant. “We’ll see interiors that feel grounded, calming, and tactile, with earthy shades providing a backdrop for both bold and subtle statements.”

Stylists highlight that these colours work in living rooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms, creating warmth and a sense of balance without overwhelming the senses. Layering with natural materials such as rattan, oak, and stone amplifies this grounded aesthetic.

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2. Curved Furniture Continues Its Rise

In 2025, curves are everywhere. Sofas, armchairs, side tables, and even shelving units are embracing gentle, organic forms:

• Ergonomic and inviting: Designers emphasise that curves create spaces that feel human-centred, welcoming, and comfortable.

• Visual softness: Rounded edges break the rigidity of straight lines, providing a sense of flow in living areas.

• Statement pieces: Large curved sofas or sculptural chairs become focal points, often combined with neutral or earthy palettes for maximum impact.

A top Manchester designer notes, “Curved furniture is not just a trend; it’s a way of introducing softness, intimacy, and balance into our increasingly digital and angular world.”

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3. Sustainability Drives Design Decisions

Sustainability remains a central concern, with British designers continuing to champion eco-conscious approaches:

• Upcycled and reclaimed materials: Timber, metal, and stone sourced from previous projects are increasingly incorporated into new builds and furniture.

• Low-impact finishes: Natural dyes, water-based paints, and non-toxic sealants are standard choices.

• Energy-conscious homes: Passive design, efficient insulation, and renewable energy integration are no longer optional.

One Yorkshire-based designer explains, “Clients want their homes to be beautiful but also responsible. Sustainability has become part of the design language itself — it’s integrated rather than added on.”

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4. Maximalist Details in Minimalist Spaces

A fascinating trend emerging in 2025 is the combination of minimalist structures with rich, maximalist details:

• Curated accessories: Sculptural vases, patterned textiles, and artisanal décor objects punctuate clean lines.

• Layered textures: Velvet cushions, woven rugs, and tactile wall treatments create depth and personality.

• Selective boldness: Designers use statement pieces strategically rather than filling rooms indiscriminately, ensuring a sense of order alongside richness.

This “calm maximalism” approach allows homeowners to enjoy both clarity and visual interest, balancing restraint with personality.

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5. Biophilic Design Gets Personal

The connection between humans and nature continues to shape interiors:

• Indoor planting: Designers predict more homes integrating small trees, vertical gardens, and curated plant corners.

• Natural materials: Stone, wood, cork, and clay dominate surfaces, furniture, and accessories.

• Daylight optimisation: Large windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces ensure interiors feel bright and natural.

According to a Bristol-based interior designer, “Biophilic design isn’t just decorative; it enhances mood, health, and well-being. Homes are increasingly designed as restorative spaces.”

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6. Lighting as a Design Feature

Lighting is moving beyond functionality to become a central design element:

• Layered lighting: Combinations of overhead, wall, and accent lights create depth and mood.

• Statement fixtures: Sculptural pendants, curved floor lamps, and artistic sconces double as art pieces.

• Smart integration: Adjustable, programmable lighting systems harmonise with natural light and daily routines.

A London designer notes, “Lighting can transform a space more than any other element. In 2025, it’s not just about illumination — it’s about creating experience and atmosphere.”

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For anyone passionate about interiors, knowing where to source unique, high-quality, or inspiring pieces is half the fun. Across the UK, interior stylists have access to an ever-growing range of shops, from long-established boutiques to hidden gems tucked away in quiet streets. In 2025, with the resurgence of craft, sustainable design, and eclectic interiors, the UK retail landscape offers an incredible mix of timeless classics, artisanal finds, and cutting-edge design.

We spoke to leading interior stylists to uncover their favourite UK shops — the places they turn to when curating style, sourcing materials, or finding inspiration for both clients and personal projects.

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London: Eclectic and Contemporary

London’s interior scene is a hive of activity, blending luxury, contemporary design, and vintage treasures:

• Dulwich Home & Interiors (Dulwich): Praised by stylists for its curated mix of contemporary furniture and artisanal homewares. It’s the kind of place where classic craftsmanship meets modern design sensibilities. “I always find statement pieces here that give a room character without overwhelming it,” one stylist notes.

• The Conran Shop (Chelsea): A perennial favourite, this flagship store blends classic design with modern lines. It’s ideal for sourcing iconic furniture and lighting, from Eames chairs to contemporary lamps.

• Liberty London (Soho): Famous for fabrics and home accessories, Liberty’s eclectic collection of patterns, textures, and artisanal products makes it a go-to for stylists aiming to layer interiors with richness and detail.

• Tom Dixon (King’s Cross): Known for sculptural lighting and industrial-inspired pieces, stylists often turn here for statement objects that double as functional art.

• Camden Vintage Stores: For those who want one-of-a-kind pieces, Camden’s vintage and antique stores offer treasures that can become focal points in modern interiors.

London’s diversity makes it easy to mix high-end design with quirky, artisanal finds, a combination that stylists love to exploit.

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Manchester: Industrial Meets Contemporary

Manchester has developed a reputation for design-savvy shopping, especially for interiors with a modern, industrial edge:

• The Manchester Vintage Company (Northern Quarter): Perfect for reclaimed furniture, vintage lighting, and eclectic décor. Stylists highlight it for its mix of practicality and character.

• Affleck’s Palace (City Centre): Beyond its alternative and eclectic vibe, some stalls offer unique homewares and collectibles that are perfect for styling shoots or client projects.

• Heals Manchester: Though part of a national chain, Heals continues to inspire with its high-quality, design-led furniture and home accessories.

• Brewster & Hight (Ancoats): A boutique offering handcrafted pieces and locally sourced décor items, which stylists praise for its commitment to quality and originality.

• Made.com Showroom (Manchester Spinningfields): A go-to for contemporary, affordable design, stylists use it to experiment with clean lines and modern colour palettes.

Manchester’s industrial heritage and contemporary flair offer stylists a rich canvas for blending old and new.

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Edinburgh: Classic Charm with a Modern Twist

Scotland’s capital offers a balance of historic charm and contemporary design:

• Malt & Co Interiors: Known for its curated selection of furniture, lighting, and textiles, stylists favour this boutique for mixing classic Scottish design with modern trends.

• Harris & Harris: A smaller store specialising in artisanal homewares and fabrics, perfect for adding unique textures and patterns to an interior.

• The Edinburgh Design House: Offers contemporary furniture and accessories, often from local designers, allowing stylists to champion homegrown talent.

• Urban Nest: Focused on Scandinavian-inspired design, its clean lines and muted palettes are ideal for minimalist interiors.

• Vintage & Antique Fairs (Stockbridge and Leith): Edinburgh’s monthly fairs are treasure troves for statement pieces, mirrors, and lighting that add history and character to modern interiors.

Edinburgh’s mix of heritage and contemporary design allows stylists to layer interiors with warmth, depth, and personality.

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Climate change is no longer an abstract concern; it is a daily reality influencing the way architects, designers, and homeowners approach residential spaces. From rising temperatures and increased rainfall to extreme weather events and evolving energy regulations, climate considerations are shaping how modern homes are conceived, built, and maintained. In 2025, architects across the UK are increasingly designing with resilience, adaptability, and sustainability at the forefront, blending environmental responsibility with aesthetic appeal.

We spoke with leading architects to understand how climate change is reshaping homes and what trends are emerging in response to a rapidly changing environment.

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Prioritising Resilience in Design

One of the foremost challenges posed by climate change is resilience — the ability of a home to withstand environmental stressors. Architects explain that this starts at the planning stage:

• Flood-resistant designs: In flood-prone areas, homes are elevated or built with water-resistant materials. Drainage systems are integrated seamlessly into landscaping.

• Wind and storm protection: Roof structures, window placements, and reinforced façades are designed to endure stronger storms.

• Thermal comfort: Insulation and ventilation systems are optimised to maintain comfort despite fluctuating temperatures.

“As climate patterns become less predictable, resilience is not optional,” says a London-based architect. “Every new project considers worst-case scenarios and adapts the design accordingly, without compromising aesthetics.”

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Passive Design Strategies

Architects are increasingly turning to passive design principles — strategies that naturally regulate temperature and light without relying heavily on energy-intensive systems:

• Orientation: Positioning homes to maximise winter sun while providing shade in summer reduces heating and cooling demands.

• Natural ventilation: Cross-ventilation and strategically placed windows minimise reliance on air conditioning.

• Thermal mass: Materials like stone, brick, or concrete absorb heat during the day and release it slowly, stabilising indoor temperatures.

• Daylighting: Large windows and skylights reduce artificial lighting needs, enhancing both energy efficiency and well-being.

Passive design creates homes that are environmentally responsible, comfortable, and cost-effective over their lifetime.

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Embracing Sustainable Materials

Material selection is central to climate-conscious architecture. Architects emphasise that sustainability extends beyond aesthetics:

• Locally sourced materials: Reduce embodied carbon from transportation while supporting local economies.

• Recycled or reclaimed materials: Timber, bricks, and steel from previous structures are increasingly incorporated into new builds.

• Low-impact finishes: Non-toxic paints, sealants, and insulation materials improve indoor air quality and reduce environmental footprint.

• Durability: Long-lasting materials reduce the need for frequent replacements, lowering waste and energy consumption.

By choosing materials thoughtfully, architects ensure that homes are both resilient and environmentally responsible.

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Energy Efficiency and Net-Zero Homes

Energy performance has become a key driver of architectural decisions, accelerated by climate change and regulatory pressure:

• High-performance insulation: Reduces heat loss and lowers energy bills.

• Renewable energy integration: Solar panels, heat pumps, and energy storage systems are increasingly standard features.

• Smart home technology: Automated systems optimise lighting, heating, and ventilation based on occupancy and weather forecasts.

• Net-zero ambitions: Some architects aim for homes that generate as much energy as they consume, reducing carbon footprints substantially.

Energy efficiency is no longer an afterthought; it defines both the environmental and economic viability of modern homes.

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Landscaping for Climate Adaptation

Exterior spaces are now considered as critical as interiors in climate-conscious design:

• Rain gardens and permeable surfaces: Reduce flood risk while supporting biodiversity.

• Green roofs and walls: Provide insulation, absorb rainwater, and mitigate urban heat islands.

• Drought-tolerant planting: Minimises water use while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

• Microclimate creation: Strategic tree and shrub placement can provide natural cooling and wind protection.

By integrating architecture and landscape, homes respond to climate challenges holistically.

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The Role of Flexibility and Adaptability

Architects stress the importance of designing homes that can adapt to future climate scenarios:

• Multi-functional spaces: Rooms can be reconfigured to meet changing family or environmental needs.

• Modular construction: Allows expansion, relocation, or modification without major reconstruction.

• Future-proof infrastructure: Roofs, façades, and utilities are designed to accommodate emerging technologies or climate mitigation strategies.

Flexibility ensures that homes remain safe, functional, and valuable over decades of climate uncertainty.

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The London Design Festival (LDF) has long been a cornerstone of the UK’s creative calendar, transforming the city every September into a playground for innovation, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking ideas. From immersive installations to intimate talks and exhibitions, the festival showcases the best in architecture, product design, interior trends, and experimental concepts. But what truly drives the festival, and how do its organisers shape one of the world’s most influential design events? In a recent conversation with the team behind LDF, we gain an inside look at the vision, challenges, and philosophy that make the festival a global benchmark.

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Understanding the Festival’s Vision

The London Design Festival was founded with a clear ambition: to celebrate creativity across disciplines and make design accessible to the public. According to the festival’s co-directors, the aim has always been twofold: to showcase the diversity of design practices and to encourage dialogue between designers, businesses, and audiences.

“London is a living gallery,” one of the directors explains. “The city itself is a canvas, and our installations, pop-ups, and talks are about engaging people in a way that is tangible, interactive, and, above all, inspiring. We want design to be part of everyday life, not just something you see in magazines or galleries.”

The festival spans multiple districts, with each location hosting unique events that reflect both local character and global trends. From Shoreditch to Southbank, the city becomes a network of design experiences, encouraging exploration and discovery.

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Curating Experiences That Resonate

One of the festival’s most challenging tasks is curating content that feels relevant and exciting year after year. The team explains that this requires a deep understanding of current trends, societal shifts, and emerging technologies.

“We look at what’s happening globally — in interiors, architecture, fashion, sustainability, and tech — and then consider how it can be interpreted through installations, exhibitions, or workshops,” says the head curator. “Our goal is to create experiences that resonate emotionally and intellectually, whether someone is a professional designer or a casual visitor.”

In 2025, for instance, sustainability and climate-conscious design were major themes. Many installations incorporated recycled materials, energy-efficient solutions, and ideas for urban living that balance aesthetics with responsibility.

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The Role of Collaboration

The LDF is not just a festival; it’s a collaboration platform. Designers, brands, cultural institutions, and universities contribute projects, workshops, and talks. The organisers emphasise that this collaborative ethos is central to the festival’s identity.

“Design doesn’t exist in a vacuum,” one organiser notes. “It’s about partnerships, dialogue, and experimentation. By inviting a broad spectrum of participants, we ensure the festival reflects a rich variety of perspectives and disciplines. It’s about connecting people, ideas, and practices.”

Notably, collaborations often lead to projects that continue beyond the festival itself. Pop-up installations frequently inspire permanent collections or influence ongoing research in architecture, interiors, and product design.

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