4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025

Cracking the code of Gen Z’s tastes can feel like trying to understand a new language. With phrases like “rizz,” “bussin,” and “ate” constantly evolving, it’s a wonder anyone outside the generation can keep up. If you’re not born between 1997 and 2012 or constantly plugged into TikTok, you might be left wondering what’s actually trending. But here at ELLE DECOR, we’re dedicated to staying ahead of the curve—whether it’s breaking down Charli XCX’s Brat Summer, jumping on the “very demure, very mindful” aesthetic, or keeping tabs on everything cool and viral.

One area where Gen Z is particularly outspoken is in the realm of home design. Despite a slight dip in homeownership rates last year, Gen Z continues to outperform older generations in terms of owning homes. In fact, according to 2024 Redfin statistics, homeownership rates for Gen Zers aged 19-25 are higher than those for millennials and Gen Xers at the same age. As a result, the generation is not just renting spaces but creating their own homes—and they definitely have strong opinions on what’s “in” and what’s “cheugy.”

Want to bring your living space up to Gen Z’s standards for 2025? Look no further than these four trends that are primed to dominate in the coming year. As they say, 4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025—and you’d be wise to follow them.

Lavish and Ornate

Think Gen Z is all about minimalist Ikea furniture? Think again. The new year will see a resurgence of rococo-style opulence, and it’s all thanks to this generation’s penchant for excess. According to the Pinterest Predicts 2025 Trend Report, lavish, frilly aesthetics will spill over from fashion into home design, particularly in tablescapes. In fact, the search term “rococo party” saw a 140% increase between September 2022 and August 2024, signaling that this ornate trend is gaining steam. “There’s been a huge shift as Gen Z gets into dinner parties and hosting,” says Margot Lee, influencer and founder of the home brand No Particular Order, which offers products designed to help spark conversations at gatherings.

Gen Z isn’t shy about mixing old and new, often sourcing vintage pieces from places like Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores. Danielle Carolan, a content creator based in New York, explains that combining modern elements with thrifted treasures is a common practice. Whether they’re hosting a luxe dinner party or decorating their living rooms with grandiose bronze candelabras, Gen Z is embracing the “more is more” ethos while avoiding anything tacky.

4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025 involves a love for the opulent, and this generation is certainly bringing this aesthetic back in style, transforming spaces into sumptuous settings.

Cherries

Courtesy of Elle Decor

Food-themed art and design have always had staying power, and Gen Z is continuing this tradition with a twist—enter cherries. Pinterest reports a 325% rise in searches for “cherry vibe” and a 100% increase in searches for “cherry bedroom.” From cherry-decorated Christmas trees to cherry-themed DIY disco balls on TikTok, this trend is proving that Gen Z isn’t afraid to inject bold, whimsical elements into their spaces.

Why cherries? They’re bright, playful, and mood-boosting—perfect for the design direction Gen Z gravitates toward. “I’ve noticed that Gen Z loves vibrant, jewel-toned colors,” says Carolan. This bold approach is echoed by designer Jessica Davis, who points out that people are embracing rich hues with undertones that pop. Cherries are both a literal and figurative symbol of a sweet and juicy interior.

For those looking to dive into this trend, you can go big with cherry red walls, or keep it more subtle with cherry-themed throw pillows or cocktail picks. Either way, cherries will add a burst of flavor to any space. 4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025 includes this fruity trend, with vibrant pops of red set to make a statement everywhere.

Little Lights

Courtesy of Pinterest

Forget harsh overhead lights—Gen Z’s approach to lighting is all about ambiance. Rather than traditional, direct lighting, this generation is creating moodier, more relaxing spaces with lamps, diffused light sources, and sunset glow. The “big light” is officially banned, as evidenced by the viral TikTok sound urging users to avoid overhead lights at all costs.

Lighting expert Maura Clark explains that the trend is moving away from exposed light sources and towards softer, more diffused lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. This includes using table lamps, floor lamps, and even tabletop fire pits to create the perfect setting. The data backs it up too—Taskrabbit’s 2024 Trend Report notes a 42% increase in bookings for hanging lights, showing that Gen Z is all about mood lighting.

If you’re looking to achieve that dreamy, cozy vibe in your home, consider investing in lampshades, wall sconces, and other diffusing fixtures. It’s all about creating a space that feels comfortable and inviting—something you’re eager to return to after a long day. 4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025 will see lighting transitions that make spaces feel more like personal sanctuaries.

Secondhand Steals

Courtesy of Pinterest

Gen Z isn’t just eco-conscious—they’re also nostalgic and thoughtful when it comes to their design choices. Far from mindlessly following the trends, this generation is curating spaces with a focus on sustainability, often opting for secondhand, vintage furniture. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores have made it easier and more affordable for Gen Z to shop sustainably while incorporating unique pieces into their homes.

Lee explains that buying secondhand allows Gen Z to explore different aesthetics and style evolutions throughout the year. The #furnitureflip trend on TikTok, where people restore or repurpose vintage furniture, has only added fuel to the fire. “I love the idea of giving something old a new life,” says Lee, who fills her own apartment with secondhand pieces, like a desk that once belonged to her grandmother.

This approach isn’t just about sustainability—it’s also about infusing spaces with personality and history. Vintage furniture adds character, and its patina tells a story that mass-produced items just can’t match. 4 Design Trends Gen Z Will Make Big in 2025 will undoubtedly include more secondhand treasures as this generation continues to steer clear of fast furniture in favor of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Gen Z’s design sensibilities may be ever-evolving, but the trends they’re championing for 2025 are clear: lavish details, vibrant cherries, cozy lighting, and a commitment to secondhand treasures. So, if you want your home to stay on top of what’s trending, look no further than these four emerging design trends.