For years, minimalism reigned supreme—stark white walls and neutral palettes defined contemporary interiors. But now, a resurgence of color and texture is breathing new life into spaces, bringing warmth, vibrancy, and personality.
642 King, South Carolina | Lead Designer: Regina Garcia
Goodbye, Minimalist White Spaces
Gone are the days of stark, empty white walls. Today’s interiors embrace personality and character, featuring layers of color, pattern, and texture that make spaces feel lived-in and full of life. According to Senior Interior Designer Regina Garcia, “We’re seeing a bold shift away from neutrals—people want spaces that feel alive and expressive.”
Vibrant, Jewel Tones & Primary Colors
Rich, saturated hues are making a grand return—especially yellow, which brings undeniable energy and warmth to any space. Whether introduced through statement furniture, bold accent walls, or decorative elements, these colors create a dynamic and inviting environment. “Jewel tones are here to stay,” says Regina. “They add a sense of drama and luxury that just can’t be achieved with a neutral palette.”
642 King, South Carolina | Lead Designer: Regina Garcia
The Return of Drapery Panels
More than just functional window coverings, drapery panels are making a comeback as a key design element. They soften a space, frame beautiful views, and introduce color and texture—all while adding a welcoming sense of coziness and warmth. “Drapery brings a level of sophistication and warmth that blinds just can’t match,” says Regina. “They complete the space.”
Layering Patterns & Textures
Pattern mixing isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s a storytelling technique. Layering complementary patterns and textures creates visual depth, making spaces feel curated rather than overly structured. This approach allows designers to play with contrast and cohesion in unexpected yet harmonious ways. “It’s about creating movement and energy in a space without it feeling chaotic,” Regina explains.
Balancing Maximalism & Minimalism
While some gravitate toward maximalism’s bold, expressive style and others favor minimalism’s simplicity, the sweet spot lies in between. This balance ensures that spaces feel dynamic without being overwhelming—thoughtfully designed to be both intriguing and inviting. “The key is restraint with impact,” Regina says. “A few bold moments, balanced with quieter areas, create the perfect harmony.”
Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge, Aspen Colorado | Lead Designer: Deana Juskys
Statement Walls & the 5th Wall: Ceilings
Walls are no longer just backgrounds; they are becoming artful expressions in themselves. Upholstery, bold wallpaper, and fabric treatments transform once-neutral surfaces into unforgettable design statements. And let’s not forget the ceiling—the often-overlooked “fifth wall.” A painted or textured ceiling can completely change the atmosphere of a room, adding depth and intrigue from above. “The ceiling is a huge opportunity to elevate a space,” Regina notes. “A pop of color or a beautiful wallpaper pattern can bring an unexpected wow factor.”
Embracing Complementary, Not Matchy-Matchy
Nature’s color wheel is our best guide, allowing for unexpected yet delightful color combinations. Moving away from overly coordinated schemes keeps interiors feeling fresh, exciting, and anything but predictable. “Perfectly matched interiors can feel too rigid,” Regina says. “The magic happens when you mix things up—contrast is what makes a space feel alive.”
By embracing these trends, designers and homeowners alike can create spaces that exude warmth, depth, and a distinctive personal touch. “It’s time to say goodbye to the blank-slate aesthetic and welcome a world of color, texture, and inspiration,” Regina concludes.
Worldly Influences & Travel-Inspired Design
Bringing home the beauty of global adventures is another emerging trend. Whether it’s textiles from Morocco, handcrafted ceramics from Italy, or Japanese-inspired wabi-sabi aesthetics, incorporating cultural influences makes spaces feel personal, unique, and enriched with stories. "Travel opens your eyes to textures, colors, and design philosophies that are unlike anything else," Regina shares. "We love weaving those global influences into our projects."
To enhance the nostalgic feeling within Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge in Aspen, Deana Juskys, Senior Interior Designer and project designer, filled all wooden picture frames with photographs and paintings sourced entirely in Colorado. “I must have visited every antique shop and taxidermy spot in the state. Individually, the items may not mean much to someone sitting at the bar, but when they all come together, they create a special feeling of our town’s history,” said Juskys.
Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge, Aspen Colorado | Lead Designer: Deana Juskys