If you’ve been paying attention, you’ve probably noticed that every year brings along a new wave of interior design trends. Some are fleeting, while others stick around long enough to become timeless staples, often blending into newer styles in ways that make the end result even better than before.
Over the years, we’ve watched our homes evolve right alongside these trends. Remember when it was fashionable to have a wall unit proudly displayed in the living room? Or when wallpaper, in the boldest colours imaginable, was the ultimate sign of sophistication?
Growing up, my mother was the true embodiment of a trend enthusiast. She still is, by the way. I vividly remember one time she gave our house a full makeover: she painted the living room a warm shade of orange, matched it with lime-green curtains, a beige carpet, lime-green couches, and a dark brown coffee table. Sounds like a colour riot, right? But somehow, it all worked. The space felt vibrant during the day and irresistibly cozy at night.
Each room had its own personality. The living room was lively and welcoming, our bedrooms reflected who we were, and the kitchen gleamed white because in her world, the kitchen had to look spotless. Looking back, I realise my mother instinctively understood the psychology of colour. She wasn’t just decorating; she was designing experiences.
I’m not sure how it was for you growing up, but I’m certain that there is that one room, or that one detail which made you feel at home, warm and safe the moment you walked in. For me, those memories still linger, and every time I see something that reminds me of them, it brings that same warmth rushing back. That’s the power of design.
Styles and tastes have evolved over the years, shaped by culture, travel, technology, and even the times we live in. And Kenya is no exception. Today, we’ll explore the top interior design trends shaping Kenyan homes in 2025 and how you can bring a touch of them into yours.
Walls That Wow
Have you ever noticed how walls quietly set the mood of a house? The colour, texture, and finish can make a space feel calm, cozy, or completely chaotic. A few years ago, most homes didn’t pay much attention to wall design. The focus was usually on the wall unit, that big wooden structure with a slot for the TV and extra shelves for utensils and décor. Back then, it made sense; many houses didn’t have built-in cabinets or storage, so the wall unit did it all.
But times have changed. Today, when you walk into a well-designed home, the walls are often the star of the show; from fluted panels and 3D wallpaper to floating shelves that blend function with beauty. And for those who love that timeless, English-inspired charm, wainscoting has made its way into our spaces too.
Most modern homes now lean toward white or off-white walls. It’s not just for simplicity — white reflects light, makes rooms appear larger, and creates the perfect backdrop for creativity. It lets homeowners play with colour through curtains, carpets, or furniture, without overwhelming the space
Ceilings and Lights
Walls are not the only stars of the show! Gone are the days when ceilings had a single light bulb hanging awkwardly in the middle of the room. Today, ceilings have become design features in their own right, shaping how a room feels the moment you walk in. You now get to experience a whole new world as you move through different spaces. Often stealing the show, it’s impossible to miss the magnificent chandeliers and statement light fixtures that command attention. They don’t just pair beautifully with high ceilings; these grand pieces elevate the entire room and add a magnificent dazzle at night.
Then there’s gypsum, a favourite for many homeowners right now. Instead of the old curtain boxes our parents used to love, gypsum ceilings now cleverly hide curtain rods and give a clean, modern finish. The layered designs also allow for soft lighting around the edges, creating that cozy glow you see in show houses and hotels. It’s simple, neat, and instantly makes your home feel well put together without trying too hard.
Subtle Touches with Big Impact
Have you heard the phrase “it’s the little things that make the most difference”? That saying has never been truer than it is today. You know that feeling when you walk into a room and instantly sense its charm, but can’t quite tell what makes it feel so right? That’s the magic of those small, thoughtful details quietly doing their job.
One great example is the use of wooden frames around entrances , especially in spaces like the dining area or corridors. With open-style kitchens and more defined dining zones becoming popular, people are now adding these wooden casings to give a bit of structure and razzmatazz without closing off the space. It’s subtle, elegant, and instantly elevates how a room feels, like adding a frame to a beautiful picture.
Another small but powerful touch that has taken over many homes is the floating TV stand. Before, most living rooms had bulky wall units that took up half the space. These later evolved into movable TV stands that doubled up as extra storage. The latest trend now is the floating TV stands, slightly raised from the floor and paired with wall-mounted TVs.
Since most people have moved away from placing their TVs on stands to hanging them above them, floating stands have become a favourite not just for aesthetics but also for practicality. They offer extra storage, help hide cords and cables, and keep everything looking clean and organised.
Floating stands create a lighter, more open feel and make the room appear bigger. They pair beautifully with fluted wall panels or 3D textures, giving a simple wall that polished, modern finish. Just make sure your fundi uses strong wall brackets. The last thing you want is your TV deciding to take a dive mid-movie.
Furniture and Layout Shifts
Another interesting change happening in many homes is how people are choosing and arranging their furniture. The once-essential coffee table, that proud centerpiece of every living room, is slowly stepping aside. In its place, dining tables are becoming the true heart of the home. It makes sense, that’s where most of life happens now: meals, long conversations, remote work, and even kids’ homework. It’s a practical shift, but one that also reflects how people are living more intentionally.
We’re also seeing a move toward simpler, uncluttered spaces. People want homes that feel calm, airy, and organised, not rooms that look like furniture showrooms. Heavy, oversized pieces are being replaced by clean lines and softer tones that give the room room to breathe (pun intended). It’s not just about following a trend; it’s about creating spaces that feel peaceful and lived-in, not staged.
At the end of the day, less really is more. The best homes aren’t the ones filled with everything, they’re the ones that make space for what truly matters.
Conclusion
Looking at how our homes have evolved, it’s clear that design today is about so much more than just following trends, it’s about creating spaces that feel personal, warm, and intentional. Every colour, panel, and light fixture tells a story of how we want to live.
We’ve come a long way from the heavy wall units and patterned curtains of years past. Now, our homes reflect who we are; calm, expressive, and always evolving. And while styles will keep changing, one thing remains constant: a beautiful home will always be one that feels lived in, loved, and true to the people inside it.
At the end of the day, design isn’t just about how things look. It’s about how they make you feel when you walk through the door, that quiet sense of warmth, belonging, and comfort that says, you’re home.
Lulu Kiritu is a Content Manager & Public Relations Specialist at BuyRentKenya, a real estate firm that connects people to property across Kenya.
