For years, the design world seemed firmly divided into two camps: the minimalists who swear by clean lines and empty surfaces, and the maximalists who see colour and ornamentation as a sort of visual joy. The debate isn’t new, but it has been unusually charged in the past decade.
Minimalism saw a major comeback in the late 2000s and 2010s. Scandinavian palettes, uncluttered rooms and Marie Kondo’s philosophy of keeping only what “sparks joy” shaped how people wanted their homes to look and feel. A pristine, pared-back lifestyle became a kind of global aspiration.
The tide turned after the pandemic. As people spent more time indoors, many began craving warmth, character and colour instead of neutral spaces that felt too quiet or controlled. This shift brought maximalism back into the spotlight, patterned walls, bold furniture, layered décor and a sense of lived-in comfort.
Now that 2025 is here, the question returns: is minimalism finally fading, or is it simply changing its shape? Designers suggest the answer lies somewhere in the middle. Minimalism isn’t saying goodbye; it’s learning to loosen up.
A New Phase of Minimalism
Most designers agree that minimalism is not disappearing. It’s evolving. The stark white rooms and sharp lines of old-school minimalism no longer appeal to people who want homes to feel personal. Instead of rigid simplicity, the newer direction leans toward “soft minimalism,” a style that blends calm spaces with touches of warmth.
This shift is partly emotional. After years of fluctuating uncertainty, people want homes that feel nurturing rather than austere. Cool greys and icy whites are giving way to earthy neutrals, warm beiges, soft terracotta and gentle greens. The design approach is still pared back, but the atmosphere is more relaxed.
Furniture follows this trend too. Instead of angular silhouettes, the market is now full of rounded sofas, textured fabrics and natural materials. Minimalist rooms still avoid visual noise, but they no longer aim for starkness. The goal is comfort without chaos.
A Case for More Colour
Colour is where the evolution is most visible. Designers say even those who love minimalist style are more open to richer palettes than before. Rather than splashing bright colour across walls, homeowners are introducing it in smaller, controlled ways, an accent chair, art with bold tones, patterned cushions or a single statement rug.
This approach keeps the room grounded but adds enough personality to avoid monotony. It reflects something larger happening in design: people want homes that feel expressive without tipping into clutter. Colour becomes a tool for individuality, even in minimalist settings.
The Desire for Calm, Clutter-Free Living Remains
Despite all the excitement around maximalism, the desire for clean, organised spaces hasn’t vanished. If anything, the last few years have reinforced how calming a clutter-free environment can be.
Designers point out that while people enjoy vibrant elements, they still want a sense of order. Storage-heavy furniture, hidden shelving, built-in cabinetry and multifunctional pieces remain in high demand. The new minimalism simply avoids feeling sterile.
There’s also a growing appreciation for quality over quantity. Instead of filling rooms quickly with decorative items, people are choosing fewer pieces that matter, handcrafted ceramics, meaningful art or even a single heirloom object placed deliberately.
What 2025 Really Means for Minimalism
The trend cycle hasn’t abandoned minimalism; it has pushed it to mature. The minimalist homes of 2025 will have more personality, softer textures, richer colours and a stronger sense of human presence.
Think of it less as an aesthetic war between minimalism and maximalism, and more as a merging of philosophies. Calm spaces with room for expression. Clean lines paired with warmth. Intentional choices instead of strict rules.
