As we find ourselves firmly in the midst of February, it seems that the year 2025 is finally starting to find its stride. Put simply, we are beginning to gain a clearer understanding of what trends are on the horizon for the coming year in terms of design, home renovations, and real estate. It is becoming increasingly evident that homeowners are experiencing a wave of nostalgia – hence the resurgence of vintage decorating trends (hello again, knotty pine paneling). Following years of minimalist influence inspired by Marie Kondo, people are now embracing the idea of spaces filled with a curated array of items. (They are not alone in this collecting endeavor.) Color is making a bold comeback through paint choices, textiles, and bathroom tile selections. (Have you seen that stunning sunny yellow kitchen yet?) And now, as the spring real estate market gains momentum, one word has seen a significant 35% increase in listings on Zillow compared to last year. That word is: Cozy. According to Amanda Pendleton, the Home Trends Expert at Zillow, “Small space living is a major trend for 2025. The term ‘cozy’ is no longer a negative descriptor in real estate – it is now a desirable design feature. Homebuyers are turning to smaller, cozier spaces for reasons of affordability and sustainability, shunning the vast open floor plans and the pandemic-driven need for endless space.” While cozy is a term often associated with fall, its emergence in the spring is quite captivating. This real estate trend perfectly complements the enduring allure of the cottagecore aesthetic, with a wealth of advice available on maximizing minimal square footage. (We can’t help but admire this charming cottage in North Carolina, along with this delightful home in New England and this cozy bungalow in Texas.) For more inspiration, check out these 70 impressive tiny houses that combine functionality with style, as well as over 30 paint colors that can instantly revamp your kitchen.
