New York Interior Design Trends: What’s In, What’s Evolving

New York City’s interior design scene is as layered and dynamic as the city itself. From Upper West Side prewar apartments to downtown lofts and Brooklyn brownstones, every space offers both a challenge and an opportunity for reinvention. As a New York interior designer working across the city’s boroughs, I’ve seen firsthand how New York interior design trends evolve—not only in response to global influences but also to the unique spatial and cultural demands of city living.

We want to explore the emerging and still enduring trends shaping interiors in NYC today. Whether you’re renovating a high-rise condo or refreshing a compact studio, here’s what’s resonating right now in the city’s design landscape.

The Rise of Quiet Luxury in NYC Interiors

Gone are the days of over-the-top opulence dominating luxury apartments. Instead, many New York clients are embracing a “quiet luxury” approach—favoring tactile richness, architectural detail, and understated elegance over overt extravagance. Think: custom millwork, warm neutrals, linen drapery, unlacquered brass, and hand-thrown ceramics instead of shiny finishes and flashy statements.

This movement is heavily influenced by Japanese and Scandinavian design principles, where every piece serves a purpose, and craftsmanship takes center stage. It’s about creating a soothing environment that reflects both refinement and restraint—ideal for hectic city living. You know I often talk about this mix (Japandi, for example) and love it as a serious starting point for my clients.

(I’m also going to sprinkle this article with links to previous articles we’ve written as well as external sources that can help you get even a fuller picture of what we mean by these trends, including this article in Architectural Digest on Quiet Luxury.)

Functional Minimalism: From Aesthetic to Lifestyle

Minimalism remains a leading design trend in New York, especially in high-density neighborhoods where every square foot counts. But it’s not just about sparse furnishings or white walls. Today’s minimalist interiors blend form and function—built-in storage, flexible furniture, and carefully chosen art pieces are all part of the equation.

In many projects, we’re seeing clients trade decorative clutter for thoughtfully curated spaces that promote calm and mental clarity. This is especially true in home offices, where productivity and serenity must coexist.

Vintage with a Twist: The Rebirth of Character

While minimalism is popular, vintage furnishings and antique accents (IMHO) are always a part of the mix. But today’s vintage isn’t about recreating the past, but more about blending character-rich elements into contemporary spaces. A well-worn mid-century chair or a 19th-century console adds soul to otherwise streamlined interiors.

In Brooklyn, especially, clients are increasingly drawn to one-of-a-kind finds—whether that’s a flea market mirror, a family heirloom, or a salvaged door turned headboard. This trend speaks to the desire for sustainability, history, and individuality in home design.

I will say it again: clients must be part of the design process in that I want them to also integrate furniture and other accessory pieces into their homes that have meaning to them. We are not looking to just throw off-the-shelf items into a space. (I get into this below in terms of eclecticism.)

We suggest visiting places like Housing Works or Brooklyn Flea for curated vintage selections…

Eclectic Layering: Where Maximalism Meets Meaning

Now, eclectic interiors have always had a home in New York, but the current iteration emphasizes intentional layering over chaos. Instead of random mashups, we see curated combinations of global textiles, sculptural lighting, handmade ceramics, and bold artwork, brought together with a unifying color palette or material theme.

These designs often reflect the homeowner’s travels, cultural heritage, or creative interests. For example, a recent Manhattan project blended Moroccan zellige tiles, Japanese shoji-style screens, and contemporary art into a single harmonious space.

The key here isn’t just to mix—it’s to edit well, ensuring that even the most eclectic rooms feel personal and cohesive.

Color and Personality: Bold is Back (But Balanced)

After years of neutral dominance, color is returning to New York interiors, but with a sophisticated edge. Moody greens, earthy terracottas, and deep blues are replacing basic grays and beiges. Clients are no longer afraid to use wallpaper or lacquered cabinetry to make a statement.

This isn’t color for color’s sake. It’s about creating spaces that evoke emotion, add warmth, or reflect a personal narrative. Even in minimalist homes, we’re seeing strategic use of bold accent pieces—such as an ochre velvet sofa or a hand-painted mural—to inject personality without overwhelming the space.

Check out this article for some of Farrow & Ball’s latest color trends.

New York Interior Design Trends: What’s Next?

We expect to see even greater integration of biophilic design—using natural materials, organic shapes, and indoor plants to connect residents with nature. In a city defined by steel and concrete, these touches offer a sense of retreat.

Smart home integrations are also gaining traction, particularly in luxury markets, where clients seek seamless control of lighting, temperature, and sound through discreet, stylish interfaces.

But above all, New York interior design is becoming more personal. Trends are no longer about following a look, they’re about finding the balance between city living and individual expression.

Designing in New York means working with constraints—but also endless possibilities. The city’s design trends reflect its diversity, its pace, and its ambition. Whether you lean toward minimalist calm, vintage charm, or expressive maximalism, the best interiors are those that feel distinctly you.

Want to explore how these trends might translate in your own home? Let’s talk. As an interior designer who works with clients across New York (and beyond), I specialize in creating spaces that reflect who you are…and, importantly, where you’re headed!

Happy Summer!