Interior Design Trends That Bother Designers

As 2025 approaches, several interior design trends are generating buzz—for better or worse. While some ideas are creative and fresh, others are proving divisive within the design community. This list explores six design trends that many professionals find less exciting, either due to impracticality, lack of longevity, or aesthetic overload. Of course, design is personal—what doesn’t work for some may still bring joy to others. But for those seeking thoughtful, lasting interiors, these are the styles worth approaching with caution

Pattern Mixing

Pattern mixing continues to linger as a holdover from the maximalist wave, despite the decline of its more extreme expressions. At its peak, this trend encouraged combining bold and clashing prints—florals with cheetah, stripes with geometrics—resulting in spaces that often felt chaotic and visually exhausting.

While maximalism isn’t disappearing entirely, the most excessive interpretations have become dated. That said, pattern mixing still surfaces in many design schemes. When executed with restraint—such as pairing a complex wallpaper with a subtle stripe—it can work well. But for most, this approach demands a sophisticated eye for scale, color, and balance. Without it, the result often feels overwhelming. For everyday spaces, simplicity still offers the most timeless outcome.

Kidult

The rise of “kidult” design—a blend of childlike whimsy and adult living—has brought a wave of playful, nostalgic interiors. Think swings inside living rooms, cartoon-inspired decor, or tableware designed with place-setting guides like those used to teach children.

This trend is especially popular among younger demographics, who often prioritize personality and fun in their spaces. But for many designers, it reads as overly quirky or even juvenile. While there’s value in embracing joy and irreverence at home, the line between whimsical and gimmicky can be thin. These elements might be better suited for themed rentals or one-off installations rather than permanent living environments. Homes can be fun without reverting to preschool aesthetics

Victorian Clutter

Victorian-inspired interiors are seeing a resurgence, fueled by a broader return to traditional design. However, the style's ornate detailing, heavy furniture, and layered textures often lead to what can only be described as “Victorian clutter.”

While some appreciate the formality and historical richness, this look can quickly feel outdated, overstuffed, and overly rigid. For many, it lacks the casual comfort and openness that modern lifestyles demand. Unless formality is a deliberate goal, recreating a Victorian parlor in a suburban home may miss the mark. The key is to borrow selectively—refined ornamentation or antique pieces—without surrendering the entire space to a bygone era

Aquatic Materials & Iridescent Finishes

Inspired by coastal elements, materials like pearlescent surfaces, iridescent tiles, and shell-inspired decor are becoming more prevalent. These elements aim to evoke an oceanic or ethereal feel—but they also flirt with theming, which many designers caution against.

Used sparingly, these finishes can offer an interesting twist—perhaps in a light fixture or drawer pull. But full commitment often veers into kitsch. Subtlety is essential. Without it, interiors risk resembling beach-themed gift shops rather than elevated, cohesive spaces.

Conclusion

These six design trends—pattern mixing, kidult style, Victorian clutter, aquatic materials, iridescent finishes, and high gloss walls—highlight the tension between creativity and practicality in today’s interiors. While none of them are inherently “bad,” each presents design challenges that can compromise comfort, cohesion, or longevity if not handled with care.

For those considering these styles, moderation and thoughtful execution are key. Trends come and go, but well-designed spaces stand the test of time.