Written by Emily Moss, Principal Designer of Emily Moss Designs

As a designer, I’m constantly asked what trends are worth leaning into—and which ones are on their way out. The truth is, good design is about more than following what’s “in.” But when used thoughtfully, trends can help you shape a home that feels current, considered, and completely your own.

Here are a few I’m loving right now—and a few I’m ready to leave behind.

1. White Oak: Love it

Light, warm, and endlessly versatile, white oak has gone from a flooring favorite to a whole-home hero. We’re seeing it on cabinetry, ceilings, furniture, and even statement walls. It’s the ultimate neutral wood tone that adds warmth without the yellow or red undertones of traditional oak. Whether you're going for modern coastal, Japandi, or soft Scandinavian vibes, white oak lays the perfect foundation. Its subtle grain keeps things soft and organic—perfect for creating that airy, lived-in aesthetic we all crave.

2. Barn Doors: Leave it (with a few exceptions)

We’re leaving ultra-farmhouse barn doors behind. While they brought plenty of charm and practicality in their time, the heavy rustic look doesn’t always fit with today’s more refined interiors. Instead, we’re opting for updated versions—think fluted panels, reeded glass, slim metal frames, or even custom carved designs that feel architectural rather than thematic.

That said, barn doors can still work beautifully when they’re done with intention. In our Cape Dutch Coastal project, we used a hand-carved wood door to create a statement moment leading into the primary bathroom. The scale and detail gave it presence and personality—proof that it’s less about the door style and more about how thoughtfully it’s executed.

emily moss designs
Project: Cape dutch coastal

3. White Subway Tile (With a Twist): Love it

You can’t go wrong with a classic, and white subway tile continues to prove its staying power—but today’s applications are far from basic. Designers are playing with layout (think vertical stack or herringbone), oversized proportions, handmade textures, and high-contrast grout to give this staple new life. It’s a safe, stylish backdrop that works in kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, and more—especially when paired with warm wood accents or finishes like brass and polished nickel.

4. Antiques: Love it

Antiques have never truly gone out of style—but we’re seeing a big shift in how they’re being used, especially in new construction. It’s less about a room full of vintage and more about layering in one or two soulful, storied pieces to give a space depth. One of our favorite ways to do that? Through accessories. Small-scale finds like this brass shell bring that collected-over-time feeling that makes a space feel personal and lived-in.

5. Bouclé: Leave it

I get the appeal—it's cozy, textured, and looked great in editorial shots for a while. But lately, bouclé feels a little overdone and not always practical for real life. It can snag easily, show wear quickly (especially on pieces that get a lot of use), and some versions just feel...fuzzy in a way that doesn’t hold up well long-term.

I’m leaning toward more tailored, structured fabrics that still feel soft but offer a cleaner look and better durability. Linen blends, performance velvets, or even a chunky woven read more elevated without feeling like they’re trying too hard. Bouclé had its moment—but I’m ready to move on.

5. Seaside Inspiration: Love it

Forget the overly themed beach house look—seaside inspiration today is all about subtlety and sophistication. We’re talking driftwood tones, linen textures, ocean blues, and sandy neutrals. This palette brings calm and freshness to any room, even if you're landlocked. Layer in shell-like ceramics, breezy textiles, and artwork inspired by the sea for a coastal feel that’s chic, not cheesy. It’s especially perfect for spring and summer styling, or for making your home feel like a year-round vacation.

A serene primary bedroom featuring ocean-inspired wall treatments, white oak flooring, and layered coastal accents from one of our Anna Maria Island projects — Emily Moss Designs
Project: Costa Mariner

6. Modern Wood Paneling: Love it

This isn’t your grandma’s den. Today’s take on wood paneling feels elevated, thanks to clean lines, white oak, and stains that lean more natural and nuanced—think soft taupes, warm honey tones, or even subtle grays that highlight the grain instead of hiding it.

What I love about this trend is that it adds warmth and depth to a space without feeling heavy or outdated. When done right, paneling brings architectural interest and texture (without going full lodge-core). It’s especially beautiful in entryways, powder baths, or as a backdrop behind a bed or built-in. The key difference now is that we’re seeing better craftsmanship, more intentional placement, and finishes that feel light, modern, and curated—not dark, orange-toned, or overpowering like older styles.

It’s a timeless detail that—when tailored to your home’s aesthetic—can feel fresh for years to come.

7. Minimalism: Leave it (well… sort of)

I’m a true minimalist at heart, so this one’s tough to let go of—but I do think the look is evolving. While I still love the simplicity, clean lines, and intentionality that come with minimalism, today’s spaces are leaning more lived-in and layered. Less showroom-perfect, more personality.

It’s not about abandoning minimalism altogether—it’s about softening it. Mixing in a patinaed wood piece, a stack of well-loved books, or a perfectly imperfect vintage rug. I still believe in editing and leaving breathing room, but I’m also loving the shift toward spaces that feel collected and real—not overly styled or stark.

Showing an example below of what that lived-in look can feel like.

*Design by Leslie Martin / M + M INTERIOR DESIGN*

8. Color Drenching: Love it

Color drenching is one of those trends I can’t get enough of right now. There’s something so compelling about taking a single hue and letting it set the tone—literally—for the entire space. In this moody office from our Tierra Tulum project, we used a rich navy limewash on both the walls and ceiling to create a fully enveloping feel.

emily moss designs
project: Tierra tulum

9. Pattern Mixing: Love it

Pattern mixing doesn’t have to be loud to be effective. In this past project, we layered a few timeless patterns in soft blues and whites to create a bedroom that feels fresh but still grounded in tradition. The floral headboard sets the tone, while striped pillows and a block-printed bench cushion bring in subtle contrast. Because everything stays within the same color palette—and the patterns vary in scale—the mix feels intentional, not overwhelming. It’s a great example of how pattern can add personality without overpowering a space.

emily moss designs
Project: Spring cottage

10. Skirting: (Learning to…) Love it

We’re seeing a soft return to skirting—not just on furniture, but across the board. From skirted sink bases to benches, sofas, and side tables, this classic detail is being reimagined with a fresh lens. Gone are the overly frilly versions of the past; today’s skirts feel tailored and intentional, especially when done in natural fabrics like linen or cotton.

This gorgeous sink base designed by Virginia Tupker is the perfect example—it adds softness, movement, and charm while cleverly disguising storage. Whether it’s a patterned pleat beneath a vanity or a custom skirt on a console table, skirting blends form and function beautifully. It’s one of those subtle design moves that makes a space feel layered, thoughtful, and just a little unexpected.

At the end of the day, design trends are just ideas—not rules. The goal isn’t to follow every trend, but to discover what resonates with your personal style and how you live. Whether you’re drawn to cozy layering, vintage finds, or bold color choices, there’s always room to experiment, refine, and make it your own. Love what you love, leave what doesn’t serve you, and let your home tell your story.

Want to hear more about our take on design trends? Watch this video where Emily shares her perspective on what’s in, what’s out, and what really matters when designing a space.

Love It or Leave It: Interior Design Trends