From lime-washed walls to alternative wood finishes, these are the latest interior design trends from those in the know …

Zoe Willis, Zoe Willis Design

Zoe Willis is known for her bold interiors and expressive use of colour, saying; “We’re moving away from safe, flat interiors towards immersion. People want their homes to feel like boutique hotels: layered, atmospheric and quietly decadent, but with personality. Think colour drenching in deep, enveloping tones that contrast beautifully rather than match politely. Dimmable lighting layered at multiple heights, so a room can shift from functional to cinematic in seconds. Curated mixes of vintage finds and design icons – pieces with provenance sitting beside contemporary statements.”

Her secret is depth: of colour and texture, matte and gloss, patina and polish, soft against hard. “The most powerful interiors are mood-led. Designed not just to be seen, but to be felt.” @zoewillisdesign

Eilish Rickard, Eilish Rickard Interiors

Creating beautiful, liveable family homes is Eilish Rickard’s forte. “Quiet luxury is all about craftsmanship and material authenticity. Natural stone with visible veining, handmade tiles, bespoke joinery and solid timber create spaces where quality is noticed. Interiors are layered and tactile, offering sensory richness and a human touch in an increasingly digital world. Rooms feel timeless, reflecting a shift towards sustainability, and understated sophistication.”

She believes that enduring rooms are layered slowly rather than completed quickly. “Foundational elements like architecture, materials and key furniture are established first, with lighting, art and objects added over time. This approach reflects a shift away from over-styled interiors toward spaces that evolve naturally and support real life. Gradual layering creates depth and authenticity, allowing the home to grow with the people who live in it.” @eilishrickardinteriors

Susan McGowan, Ashen & Cloud

Susan McGowan explains; “Texture, tactility and materials close to nature continue to warm the hearts of homeowners, where we swap white walls for muted tones that bathe spaces in warmth and add subtle interest. Even the lightest of applications can take away the perception of cold and transform a room into a softly atmospheric space. This warm base can then allow for the introduction of both homogeneous and contrasting materials within the interior space, which can add character to suit your taste, from bold statements to cosy cocoons.”

This brass kitchen provides a key focal point within a large open-plan space, softened by lime-washed walls that appear gently contiguous with the surrounding finishes. @ashenandcloud

Aisling Wilson, Ash Wilson Design

Aisling Wilson says textured or French wash walls and fresco finishes are emerging as one of the defining interior trends of the moment. “As we move toward warmer minimalism and more tactile spaces, this finish offers a softer alternative to normal paint. Its subtle texture and tonal variation bring depth and character.” She also notes the use of silver. “Used thoughtfully, metal finishes can change the style and mood of a space with just their presence. For me, silver adds an authentic mid-century tone to a scheme. The key lies in balance: pairing cool metals with organic materials to create tension and harmony in equal measure.”

Alternative wood finishes also bring drama into contemporary interiors. “Design is shifting away from pale timbers and toward richer palettes. Deep walnut and espresso tones ground spaces with a sense of permanence and luxury. Whether used on cabinetry, flooring or statement joinery, a stain highlights the natural grain while adding intensity and contrast, creating interiors that feel intimate and considered.” @ashwilsondesign

On the EZ Living Interiors podcast and YouTube channel, I discuss moving away from picture-perfect interiors towards homes that feel personal and truly lived in – spaces that feel like a sanctuary rather than a show-house. 

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