Get ready for the exciting interior design trends of 2025, where natural materials are set to steal the show once again! At Habitare, the renowned interior designer Milla Alftan wowed the audience with her insights on upcoming trends and the incredible versatility of using wood in different spaces. Alftan emphasized that the growing appreciation for authentic materials will make wood an indispensable element in both homes and public spaces. Get ahead of the curve and embrace the timeless beauty of wood in your surroundings!
Closeness to Nature
Milla Alftan emphasizes that while colors have gained popularity in recent years, natural interiors continue to be a dominant choice. "Nature has always been a significant source of inspiration for Finns. The warmth of wood and natural tones brings balance and comfort to interiors, and many people desire to extend the landscape from their windows into their interiors using natural materials," Alftan explains.
The use of wood in wall and ceiling panels and floors brings a sense of coziness and tranquility to spaces. The natural materials create a timeless look, while the different finishes enhance the natural beauty of wood, making it a versatile material. Wood can be used in various spaces, including wet areas such as bathrooms, saunas, and toilets, where it provides a contrast to hard tiled surfaces.
Innovative panels and lathes are gaining popularity
Alftan believes that lathes are a significant trend in interior design. In recent years, lathes have been widely present and their versatility has made them popular in Finnish home interiors. They add a touch of warmth and have found their way from ceiling panels to furniture and wall elements.
Experience the timeless beauty of natural wood in your interior panels. While oak remains a favorite among interior designers, birch, ash, and thermally modified wood are also making waves in the world of interior surfaces. From enhancing ceiling and wall surfaces to creating stunning bed headboards, the possibilities are endless. Take, for example, the JALO interior panel, perfect for bringing elegance to curved surfaces. Embrace the subtle, natural feel and the serene ambiance that only real wood can create.
Black and white have their place, but the authenticity of wood stands out.
Milla Alftan emphasizes the enduring significance of black and white in interior design, especially when aiming for a modern and pristine aesthetic. "Black can be a stunning and sophisticated choice, but it's essential to use it judiciously to avoid overpowering the space or creating a gloomy atmosphere," she advises. Alftan notes that clients often seek to incorporate black to introduce depth and contrast, while also desiring lightness and harmony in their living spaces.
White is the perfect choice to bring light and freshness to any space, while the authenticity and natural tones of wood are increasingly popular in interior design. Black and white panels offer versatile and beautiful options, particularly suitable for modern and Scandinavian interiors where clean lines and contrasts are essential. White and black brings balance to the natural look of wood, creating an elegant and timeless ensemble in any space.
Multi-material interior design is in
Alftan believes that combining wood with other materials such as stone and metal is a growing trend. She explains, "Wood complements cold materials like stone and metal. For example, pairing a wooden table with stone or metal legs creates an elegant and balanced ensemble.
The reflections of different surfaces and temperature contrasts create fascinating combinations where each material stands out. The warmth of wood brings a sense of softness, while stone and metal add a modern and edgy look.
Wood in public spaces
Although Milla Alftan mainly designs for private homes, she also sees the use of wood increasing in public spaces. "In public spaces, for example, strict fire safety requirements bring challenges in material selection. Fortunately, a wide range of fire-resistant panels are now available, which preserve the beauty and naturalness of wood."
A good example of a public space where wood plays a central role is Löyly in Helsinki. "At Löyly, wood is a stunning feature of both the architecture and the interior design, bringing warmth and harmony to the space." Alftan says. Another excellent example is Allas Sea Pool, where the outdoor cladding and terrace areas are made with fire-resistant panels from Siparila.
Summary
In 2025, naturalness will be even more prominent in interior design. The versatility of real wood with its different finishes makes it a great choice for homes and public spaces. Interior designer Milla Alftan encourages interior designers to create interesting contrasts by combining wood with other materials. Real wood is and will remain at the heart of Finnish interior design, where it has long been part of national identity and architecture.
Read more Siparila's interior panels:
