From Milan With Style: The Dazzling Design Trends Set to Shape 2025

Milan Design Week isn’t just a trade fair—it’s the heart of the global design scene, and this year, it didn’t disappoint. Held in April and officially known as Salone del Mobile, the week-long spectacle lit up Italy’s design capital with a vibrant mix of creativity, craftsmanship and cutting-edge ideas.

Senior design manager at Winnings, Kate McGlone, shared her thoughts on what’s turning heads in the world of interiors right now—and what we’ll likely be seeing in stylish homes everywhere over the next year.

Nabuk: Leather Gets a Luxe Makeover

Soft, velvety and surprisingly emotional—Nabuk leather made a big splash this year, especially on sofas and armchairs. It’s not the most practical for family life, but it brings a richness and comfort that feels like a warm embrace. "It’s more than just a material; it’s an experience," McGlone explained.

A Fresh Coat of Colour

Muted tones took a back seat as vibrant hues returned in force. Think mint green, mustard yellow and vivid purples—used in clever combinations or grounded with neutrals. These colours weren’t just for show; they added depth, personality, and a bit of cheeky charm to interiors.

Shine On: High-Gloss Finishes

High-gloss materials, particularly in mustard tones, caught the eye for their reflective elegance. When paired with natural textures like wood or stone, they created dynamic, sophisticated contrasts that really stood out.

Timber’s Warm Return—In Walnut

Wood remains a staple, but this year, rich walnut tones stole the spotlight. Dark, moody and timeless, walnut furniture added weight and warmth, setting the perfect scene for bolder colours and sleek finishes.

Bold Rugs That Steal the Show

Forget plain and neutral—rugs went bold this year. Geometric patterns and bright colours turned them from background basics into centrepieces that transformed entire rooms from the ground up.

Mixed Materials: Texture Meets Tactility

Designers are leaning into variety, pairing materials like metal, leather and timber in single pieces. This mix gives minimalist designs more personality and invites people to interact with them—not just look at them.

All About the Curve

Curves and soft forms continued their upward trend, offering a welcome break from sharp lines and rigid shapes. They bring a sense of calm and balance, while also giving designers a playground for experimenting with bold colours and tactile finishes.

Let There Be (Storytelling) Light

Lighting moved well beyond its practical purpose this year—it became a storytelling tool. From Art Deco-inspired pieces to modern takes on chandeliers, lights were poetic, emotional, and often sculptural. "It’s about setting a mood, not just brightening a room," McGlone noted.