Hear From The Experts: Industry Insights on Interior Design Trends, Tips, and Timeless Practices

Interior design is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, where creativity meets functionality. While trends come and go, certain principles and expert advice remain invaluable for creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. In this blog, we’ll delve into insights from industry experts on the latest interior design trends, the importance of personalization, sustainable design, and how to balance form with function.

1. Embrace Personalization Over Perfection

According to renowned designer Kelly Wearstler, personalization is key to great interior design. "A space should reflect the people who live there," she notes. It's not about following trends religiously but about creating a unique environment that tells a personal story. For example, incorporating family heirlooms, custom art pieces, or travel souvenirs can transform a house into a home.

Kelly served as a judge on Bravo’s Top Design and was recently named a judge for Dezeen Awards China 2023. Her notable commercial projects include Santa Monica Proper Hotel, Austin Proper Hotel, and San Francisco Proper Hotel.

 

Personalization allows homeowners to imbue their spaces with meaning and memories. This approach contrasts with the sterile, catalog-perfect look that often dominates social media. Instead, mixing styles, colors, and textures—based on personal preference—can create warmth and character. Additionally, personalized designs often stand the test of time better than fleeting trends.

2. Sustainability in Design Is a Must

With increasing awareness about environmental impact, sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. Designers like Axel Vervoordt emphasize using eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices when designing spaces. Vervoordt advocates for sourcing local, natural materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and organic fabrics.

Axel Vervoordt decorated the Tribeca Penthouse Suite for Robert De Niro in 2014 and then the Calabasas house of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. His clients also include Madonna, Bill Gates, Sting and he also worked on the Bayerischer Hof in Munich and the Royal Palace of Belgium.

 

In addition to sustainable materials, experts are incorporating energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and repurposed furniture into their designs. By choosing timeless, high-quality pieces that will last for years rather than mass-produced items, homeowners can reduce their environmental footprint while creating a chic, eco-conscious space.

3. Mix Modern and Traditional for Timeless Appeal

Many top designers agree that blending modern and traditional elements is a strategy that leads to timeless interiors. According to Bunny Williams, balance is key. She suggests mixing antiques with modern artwork or sleek contemporary furniture with vintage rugs . This juxtaposition of old and new creates a dynamic tension, resulting in a layered, sophisticated look.

Bunny Williams is a celebrated interior designer inspires that much confidence who worked at the legendary firm of Albert Hadley and Sister Parish for 22 years. She creates rich, inviting rooms where antiques and contemporary pieces work in harmony.

 

A traditional piece—like a classic Chesterfield sofa—paired with modern lighting or art creates an interior that feels both anchored in history and fresh. The key is balance; too many traditional pieces can make a room feel dated, while an overemphasis on modern trends can result in a cold, impersonal space.

4. Biophilic Design: Connecting with Nature Indoors

Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into interior spaces, is gaining momentum in the design world. As expert Amanda Sturgeon of the International Living Future Institute explains, biophilic design is not just about incorporating plants; it's about creating spaces that nurture a connection to nature . This can be achieved through natural light, organic materials, and design elements that mimic natural forms.

 

Amanda Sturgeon was head of Regenerative Design at global consultancy Mott MacDonald, CEO of the International Living Furniture Institute, a US Green Building Council Fellow since 2013, inaugural CEO of Built by Nature and current CEO of The Biomimicry Institute.

 

Studies have shown that biophilic design can improve well-being, reduce stress, and boost productivity. Bringing nature indoors—through features like living walls, indoor gardens, or large windows that maximize natural light—can create a calming environment that fosters relaxation and creativity.

5. Functionality Over Fashion: Prioritize Practical Design

While aesthetic appeal is important, functionality should always be a top priority in interior design. Nate Berkus, a well-known interior designer, stresses the importance of designing spaces that are practical for everyday living . Beautiful furniture and decor mean little if they don't serve the needs of the people living in the space.

Nick Berkus’s multidisciplinary firm has earned him numerous design accolade and magazine features. He also has two best-selling books to his name, as well as a number of hit TV shows. He currently cohosts TLC’s Nate & Jeremiah by Design. The designer has also collaborated on collections with companies from Kravet to Target.

 

Berkus advises designing for longevity and usability, ensuring that every piece has a purpose. For example, open-plan living spaces have been popular for years, but it's essential to ensure that this layout works for a family’s lifestyle. Incorporating storage solutions that fit seamlessly into the design and selecting furniture that suits the daily flow of activities can make a home both beautiful and livable.

6. Color Psychology: The Impact of Hues on Mood

Color can significantly influence the mood and atmosphere of a room, and many interior designers focus on the psychology of color when creating spaces. According to designer Justina Blakeney, colors like blues and greens have calming effects, while yellows and reds can energize a room.

Named one of "The 20 Most Famous Interior Designers Working Today" by Architectural Digest, and part of AD's AD100 cohort for 2023, Justina Blakeney's visionary design work has been featured extensively online and in print including House Beautiful Magazine, Vogue Living and Architectural Digest and she has brought designs to life for iconic brands such as Target, Barbie, Kohler, CB2 and GE.

 

Blakeney recommends using calming tones in bedrooms or meditation spaces and reserving vibrant colors for areas where energy and conversation are encouraged, such as living rooms or kitchens. Choosing the right color palette can transform a room's ambiance and even affect how people feel in the space.

7. Open Floor Plans: Flexibility is Key

Open floor plans remain a popular trend, but they come with challenges. According to Elle Décor, experts like Jeffrey Alan Marks believe that while open spaces are great for socializing, they also need defined areas for functionality . Using furniture, area rugs, or partial dividers can help create distinct zones for different activities within an open space.

Celebrated for creating timeless interiors, Jeffrey Alan Marks is often recognized for his role in Million Dollar Decorators, the interior design show that sees A-listers’ homes transformed. Since then, he has introduced his ‘easy living’ approach to residential and commercial interiors across the globe, each layered with personality, timeless color choices, and custom details.

 

This concept is especially useful in small homes or apartments, where a flexible layout can maximize space. Additionally, multifunctional furniture—like foldable tables or sofas that convert into beds—adds further adaptability, allowing rooms to serve multiple purposes depending on the time of day or activity.

Conclusion

Expert insights on interior design reveal that the best spaces are those that blend functionality with creativity, personalization, and sustainability. Whether you're designing a cozy living room or a high-tech kitchen, these principles help create timeless, livable, and beautiful environments. By incorporating biophilic design, balancing modern and traditional elements, and prioritizing practicality, anyone can design a space that not only looks stunning but also feels welcoming and purposeful.

 

References:
1. Kelly Wearstler's approach to design and personalization is discussed in detail on platforms like House & Home, which highlights her use of bold personalization in her projects.
For more insight into Wearstler's global influence and how she blends historical, global, and modern styles into her work, you can check out this source on Beyond the Walls Design, which elaborates on her use of Art Deco and Mid-century Modern influences as well as her impact across continents.
2. You can explore more about Axel Vervoordt's approach to sustainable design, minimalism, and the influence of Wabi-Sabi in his works through various sources, including his official website and publications. A notable source is "Living with Light", which discusses his philosophy of blending natural elements like light, water, and wood with contemporary and historical aesthetics. The book delves into his ability to create serene, harmonious spaces that reflect both Eastern and Western philosophies.
For more detailed insights, you can check out https://www.axel-vervoordt.com/books/living-with-light where his principles on timeless interiors are discussed in depth. You can also explore his work further by reading publications like *Wabi Inspirations*, which highlights his focus on simplicity and authenticity in design.
3. In her own home, Williams often uses a neutral color palette to create a calming environment, particularly in spaces like her conservatory, which blends indoor and outdoor elements seamlessly. She also places a strong focus on plants, advocating for the use of elevated greenery to create dramatic focal points.
For more detailed information on Bunny Williams’ design philosophy and projects, you can explore her profile on (https://blog.onekingslane.com/bunny-williams-home-tour/) and (https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2013/08/about-bunny-williams/)
4. You can read more about Amanda Sturgeon's appointment and philosophy on regenerative design on Mott MacDonald's website (https://www.mottmac.com/about-us/great-powers-of-regeneration) and (https://www.mottmac.com/releases/mott-macdonald-appoints-amanda-sturgeon-as-regenerative-design-lead)
5. You can find insightful information about Nate Berkus' design philosophy and career in his interview with Domino, (https://www.domino.com/content/nate-berkus-career-interview/)
You can explore his detailed insights further at (https://www.upscalelivingmag.com/luxury-lifestyle-of-the-elite/nate-berkus-every-home-tells-story/)
6. To learn more about Justina Blakeney and her unique approach to interior design, you can explore her official website (https://www.justinablakeney.com/), or read insightful articles such as the one featured on Net-a-Porter, which delves into her bohemian style, inspired by vibrant colors, nature, and personal creativity (https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/porter/article-2c6b159763a2bfa9/lifestyle/interiors/jungalow-justina-blakeney)
7. Jeffrey Alan Marks (https://www.therugcompany.com/the-thread/q-and-a-with-jeffrey-alan-marks/) and (https://sbmag.com/weliveinparadise/creature-comforts)