I’m beyond thrilled to share that excerpts of my commentary were recently published in Forbes! This feature highlights some of the most significant wellness design trends shaping the future of interiors, as outlined in the ASID Trends Outlook. While Forbes provided a glimpse into my insights, I’m excited to offer my full perspective on these transformative design movements here on my blog. Be sure to check out the original article on Forbes here.
Cultural Narratives: Designing Spaces with Deeper Meaning
I see clients embracing this movement—more than a trend, it’s a lifestyle shift—toward deeper personalization and joy in their homes. While resale is still a consideration, the priority has shifted to how they feel in their space now. More families are renovating with a focus on multigenerational living, ensuring their homes function for a variety of users and reflect the stories that matter most to them.
Cultural inclusions often take the form of repurposing cherished heirlooms—giving new life to furniture passed down through generations, blending history with modernity. I also see an intentional layering of meaningful decor, whether it’s handcrafted art, textiles with heritage significance, or statement pieces that honor family traditions. The result is a home that isn’t just beautiful but deeply personal—a reflection of identity, joy, and legacy. Read more on this in my recent Case Study
Designing for Joy: The Rise of Dopamine Decor
Design for joy isn’t just a trend—it’s a mindset shift that has been central to my work from the very beginning. As an empathetic designer, I’ve always believed that our surroundings should be a source of inspiration, comfort, and emotional uplift. With the uncertainty and stress many face today, more clients are recognizing the power of their homes to enhance well-being, and they’re seeking spaces that spark joy in a deeply personal way.
This shows up in my projects through color drenching with bold colors, playful shapes, and layered textures that create an immediate sense of delight. Whether it’s a vibrant accent wall, a mix of unexpected patterns, or a nostalgic nod to a client’s personal story, every detail is curated to evoke happiness and ease.
While I see all generations embracing joyful design in some way, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge. These generations, influenced by the digital age and pop culture—especially the rise of anime, gaming, and immersive experiences—are unafraid to make bold statements in their spaces. They’re gravitating toward dopamine decor, where color and creativity reign, and I anticipate this love for expressive, feel-good design will continue with Gen Alpha and beyond. Ultimately, joy in design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about how a space makes you feel every single day.
Neuro-Inclusive Design: Creating Spaces for Everyone
Neuro-inclusive design is not just a trend—it’s a necessary shift in how we approach the built environment. I love that younger generations, especially Gen Z, are fully embracing their differences and encouraging open conversations around neurological diversity. This awareness is prompting older generations to take a closer look at how our spaces impact mental and sensory well-being, making neuro-inclusive design more of a priority than ever.
I’ve seen a steady increase in projects where clients are seeking thoughtful, inclusive solutions—whether it’s a single father who’s a burn survivor raising a son with autism or my own father navigating neurological changes. These experiences have reinforced my belief that great design should serve everyone. It’s all around us, and it’s becoming more prominent across both residential and public spaces.
Some of my favorite approaches include integrating furniture that encourages movement, like swivel chairs or rocking elements, which provide sensory engagement in a subtle, stylish way. Lighting plays a crucial role—soft, layered lighting reduces harsh glare, while color-tunable LEDs help regulate mood and energy levels. I also love incorporating textured finishes that offer a grounding sensory experience and creating spaces that balance calmness with moments of vibrancy through saturated colors and playful patterns.
At its core, neuro-inclusive design is about creating spaces that don’t just look beautiful but feel good—spaces that support, soothe, and uplift everyone who inhabits them. And that’s something I’m incredibly proud to be a part of.
Toxic Awareness: Designing for a Healthier Future
Toxic awareness in design has grown significantly in recent years, and clients are becoming more mindful of what’s in their homes—not just for aesthetics, but for their long-term health and well-being. I think once society saw how airborne viruses can have a direct impact on our health, the impact of extreme weather events, like wildfires and flooding, has heightened awareness of environmental toxins, air quality, and material safety. People are realizing that what surrounds them daily—furniture, finishes, even the air they breathe—can either support or compromise their health.
The biggest concerns I hear from clients today revolve around indoor air quality and chemical exposure. There’s a greater demand for low-VOC paints, natural fiber textiles, and formaldehyde-free cabinetry and flooring. More clients are also questioning synthetic materials and opting for sustainable, non-toxic alternatives that won’t off-gas harmful chemicals over time.
To address these concerns, designers have been more intentional about integrating air-purifying solutions—whether through HVAC upgrades with HEPA filtration, biophilic design that naturally improves air quality, or selecting materials that don’t contribute to indoor pollution. I’m also seeing a shift away from mass-produced, plastic-heavy decor in favor of handcrafted, responsibly sourced pieces that align with both wellness and sustainability.
Ultimately, this shift isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment. Clients are embracing the idea that their homes should be a safe haven, designed with intention and care for both the present and the future.
Final Thoughts on 2025 Design Trends
The 2025 ASID Trends Outlook highlights key shifts in interior design that prioritize well-being, personalization, and sustainability. As designers, we have a responsibility to create spaces that not only reflect beauty but also enhance quality of life. It’s an honor to have my insights featured in Forbes and to contribute to this ongoing conversation about the future of interior design.
For a condensed version of these insights, be sure to read the Forbes article here. And if you’re ready to transform your home into a space that supports joy, health, and inclusivity, let’s start a conversation!
If you're a homeowner looking to build or are in the process of building a custom home and want to work with an interior designer, then let's connect. Together, we'll transform your space into a masterpiece that reflects your unique style and personality.
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