As we step into 2025, our architecture and interior teams at Deep River Partners are excited to share trends shaping the year ahead. From the enduring appeal of minimalism and the growing emphasis on wellness design that create calming environments, to the use of warm neutral tones that bring comfort and versatility, 2025 is poised to celebrate intentional and harmonious living. The home office remains a high priority, with innovative designs to enhance productivity and style. Finally, elements of surprise through custom features add a touch of individuality and delight, ensuring every space tells a unique story.
Keep it Simple
Photo by Ryan Hainey Photography, courtesy of Deep River Partners
Minimalism has emerged as a leading trend in design, capturing the essence of simplicity and functionality, characterized by clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on essential elements. This aesthetic is finding its way into homes of various styles. Whether through sleek cabinet doors or modular-inspired exteriors, minimalism offers a refined approach that resonates deeply in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.
One of the most striking aspects of this trend is its versatility. Minimalism isn’t limited to ultra-modern architecture; it can enhance a variety of styles by incorporating simple silhouettes and detailing of structural elements such as soffits and beams. Visual interest and sculptural elegance elevate spaces while maintaining a sense of clarity and openness.
Maxwell Hunt, Design Associate at Deep River Partners, said, “Right now, I am embracing minimalism in modern and contemporary design. By eliminating the unnecessary and celebrating the essential, minimalism fosters environments that feel purposeful, calming, and timeless. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing quality over quantity and finding beauty in simplicity.”
Practicing Wellness
Photo by Ryan Hainey Photography, courtesy of Deep River Partners
The trend of wellness in design is transforming how we think about home spaces, prioritizing areas dedicated to relaxation and self-care. With the increasing stresses of modern life, homeowners are seeking ways to create personal sanctuaries that promote balance and calm. Features like home gyms, steam showers, saunas, and whirlpools cater to the body’s physical well-being, while meditation corners and soaking tubs offer restorative moments for the mind and soul. The embrace of wet rooms, seamlessly integrating showering and bathing, embodies the growing desire to recreate the essence of a home spa.
Wellness is not just a passing trend but a response to the growing emphasis on mindfulness and unplugging from today’s many distractions. Incorporating wellness features promotes experiences that enrich daily life.
Bradley Hopper, AIA, Architect with Deep River Partners, said, “The wellness trend resonates deeply with how we design calming atmospheres to evoke emotional responses and create personal retreats. I’m particularly drawn to moodier rooms with darker tones, which offer a sense of calm and escape. It’s incredibly rewarding to design rooms that prioritize self-care, knowing we’re helping clients find more ways to enjoy and recharge at home.”
Trending Colors
Collage by Deep River Partners
Color trends this year are taking a warm and inviting turn, with rich mahogany tones and earthy neutrals making a strong comeback. Shades like Benjamin Moore’s color of the year “Cinnamon Slate,” a blend of plum and velvety brown, are gaining popularity for their ability to create comforting, grounded spaces with depth and timeless appeal, all while maintaining a modern edge.
Deep hues like navy, burgundy, and darker greens also play a key role, complementing these warmer tones and grounding interiors. Whether featured on accent walls, furniture, or accessories, these colors add sophistication and dimension, creating natural and welcoming interiors.
The rise of warmer neutrals reflects a shift toward more intimate and nurturing environments. By embracing these hues, designers are crafting spaces that resonate emotionally, providing comfort and style to remain a favorite for years to come.
Gracie Giese, ASID, interior designer at Deep River Partners, said, “I’m thrilled to see rich chocolatey browns and earthy tones taking center stage in design. These colors bring a warm, inviting coziness to the home. I also expect to see more creative blending of colors and patterns, adding depth and character. What I love most are the subtle undertones—they add a layer of intricacy and dimension that elevates the overall design to something uniquely special.”
Work From Home
Photo by Ryan Hainey Photography, courtesy of Deep River Partners
The home office has cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern home design. Furniture and technology innovations have risen to meet the demands of home office productivity. Ergonomic chairs, adjustable desks, and smart storage solutions enhance comfort and efficiency, while plug-and-play setups simplify the integration of technology. The concept of an at-home business center is also gaining traction, with dedicated areas for pulling in, plugging in, and printing.
A well-designed home office extends beyond functionality, offering an opportunity to reflect personal branding and style. Curated online backgrounds, featuring striking bookshelves or bold wall colors, create an aesthetically pleasing and professional backdrop. Thoughtful design choices ensure a polished and intentional visual presence for virtual meetings and calls while seamlessly integrating into the home environment.
Nicholas Blavat, AIA, Partner | Senior Project Architect at Deep River Partners, said, “The home office is no longer an optional addition—it’s a necessity for today’s work-from-home lifestyle. With remote work becoming the norm, people need spaces that replicate the functionality and focus of their traditional office while fitting seamlessly into their homes. A well-designed home office isn’t just about productivity; it’s about creating a versatile environment that allows you to work efficiently from anywhere without compromising comfort or style.”
Elements of Surprise
Photo by Mark Heffron, courtesy of Deep River Partners
Incorporating custom features that provide an element of surprise is becoming a key trend. These unique features reflect the personality within, transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones. A concealed prep pantry, a hidden beverage center, or a pop-up appliance station offers convenience and elevates both style and efficiency.
For designers, the fun lies in creating these unexpected details tailored to each client’s lifestyle. Hidden passageways that connect rooms in subtle ways add a sense of mystery and adventure. A secret bookcase opening between a home office and the main suite transforms how the spaces interact with each other.
Nicholas Mather, AIA , NCARB, Senior Architect at Deep River Partners, said, “A trending design element I truly enjoy is incorporating these surprise features. While every home we design is one of a kind, it’s those custom details that really excite our clients. It’s about giving them something unique—a current project has an indoor slide, playfully connecting floors. I look forward to seeing these designs come to life and the joy they bring to our clients.”
—By Deep River Partners, a Milwaukee-based residential design firm
