EDITORIAL FEATURES
Our WNWN Ambassadors Weigh In On The NEXT Design Trends…
Our 2025 class of WNWN ambassadors encompasses an exceptionally talented group of designers from across the country. We asked them to share the trends they predict will be showcased at this year’s What’s New What’s Next. Each with their own perspective, our Ambassadors set the tone for an exciting WNWN and season ahead.
Join the New York Design Center on Sept.18 and see which predictions come to life, from colors to textures, materiality, sustainability, and period styles.
“We’re looking to see more one-of-a-kind pieces, organic shapes, and more color!” —DuVäl Reynolds, DuVäl Design
“I expect to see an emphasis on texture, whether it’s upholstery, fabric, or lighting—extra-plush velvets, cerused woodgrain, and metals with serious patina.” —Tara McCauley, Tara McCauley, LLC
“Fall’s hottest design trend is the color brown. Not just any brown. It’s a rich, velvety shade that is coined by Pantone as Mocha Mousse! My favorite way to use this color is as a strong base (think sofa or wall color) and bring in coordinating shades of pastels, like pale pink and pistachio green. This delicious brown is also a great pairing for red. Brown is the new black.” —Lisa Frantz, Lisa Frantz Interiors
“I am expecting a shift toward richly layered, personalized interiors that blend biophilic wellness and curated maximalism. I am thinking of rich earthy tones, textural materials, and sculptural elements such as lighting that create spaces that feel both intentional and inviting.” —Mark Schubert, M2 Design Lab
“Pastoral tones—think sun-faded greens, ochres and earth-soft neutrals—are coming forward as the quiet backdrop for what’s next. The real movement, though, is in customization: clients expect spaces tuned to them, from tailored finishes to one-off details. The combination points to interiors that feel grounded, human and unmistakably personal.” —Jeremy D. Clark, Jeremy D. Clark
“This year I expect to see references to art deco and Italian Modernism, two movements whose influence continues to shape contemporary interiors. There is a compelling dialogue emerging around color—unique palettes and unexpected juxtapositions that feel both daring and refined. Above all, I anticipate an elevated focus on craftsmanship and collectible design, reflecting a curatorial sensibility that privileges artistry, materiality and enduring cultural value.” —Victoria Sass, Prospect Refuge
“Rounded, soft furniture that promotes comfort and fluidity. Earthy tones infused with natural textures such as cashmere, wool and cotton. A move toward traditional interiors with a modern twist, with pattern on pattern and lots of jewel-toned colors.” —Evelyn Benatar, New York Interior Design
“Trends I am expecting to see at WNWN for 2025 into 2026 include statement pieces, oversized and bold lighting, and more warm, earthy colors. And I believe there will be a continuance in popularity with furniture that’s modular and multifunctional.” —Kelly Collier-Clark, House of Clark
“Personal style. A home should represent the homeowners, and the designer’s role is to understand the client to craft a space that feels authentic. I anticipate seeing design and décor that are vastly personal in theme and style to fit this trend.” —Rachael Grochowski, RHD A+D
“I expect to see hand-painted details on everything from furniture and lampshades to every bit of home accessories. The kinds of details that add handcrafted, timeworn charm to everyday items.” —Isabel Ladd, Isabel Ladd Interiors
“At What’s New, What’s Next, I expect to see the return of chrome and silver, bringing a cool, reflective edge to contemporary interiors. Classic traditional details—like millwork, moiré, chintz, and refined silhouettes—are resurfacing with a fresh, edited perspective. What excites me most is the way these nostalgic touches are blending seamlessly with sleek, contemporary polish.” —Nikki Levy, Nikki Levy Interiors
“If High Point was any indication, I’m expecting to see marble being used in new and unexpected ways and a continuation of pieces made of natural materials.” —Gala Magriñá, Gala Magriñá Design
“This year at WNWN, I’m hoping to see a strong focus on heritage craftsmanship and traditional skills that celebrate artisans and embrace the principles of slow design. More than ever, we’re drawn to a craft aesthetic that honors the beauty of handmade imperfections while valuing uniqueness and sustainability. These pieces naturally align with a slower, more intentional way of living—one that reflects the essence of true wellness.” —Melissa Reavis, Hollander Design Landscape Architects
“People are leaning into high-dopamine design with vibrant color making a comeback as trends move toward the bold and joyful again. Pattern play is resurgent as we’re more open than ever to mixing scales, styles and textures in energizing and multisensory ways. And, for most of us, sustainability is top of mind as we acknowledge the fragility of natural resources and the inevitability of climate change, inspiring us to source responsibly and get creative…without sacrificing aesthetics.” —Noel Gatts, Beam & Bloom
