As we step into 2025, the team gathered to discuss the design trends shaping the industry. From bold interior aesthetics to innovative construction techniques, these emerging themes reflect a world adapting to changing needs and preferences. Here’s what our architects see on the horizon this year:

1. The Role of AI in Architecture

Artificial intelligence is poised to make waves in the design and construction industries in 2025. “This year, we’re going to start seeing some headway in how AI really affects our industry,” Roger says.

With hundreds of applications in development, AI offers the potential to revolutionize how projects are delivered. From streamlining workflows to enhancing project accuracy, these technologies are setting a new standard for architectural services.

2. Color Drenching

“On the interiors side, color drenching is going to be huge,” says Lindsay, highlighting a departure from the light, airy palettes that have dominated recent years. This trend envelops spaces in a single hue, covering walls, ceilings, and trim with cohesive, often dark and moody tones.

This approach creates immersive environments, offering a more dramatic and grounded feel—a perfect antidote to years of neutral minimalism.

3. Fire-Resistant, Self-Sustaining Construction

Brian emphasizes the growing demand for fire-resistant design, explaining, “Fire-protective residential design has long lagged behind commercial design. 2025 will be the year fire-resistant residential construction begins to catch up.”

Pete points to a rising interest in self-sustaining homes as well, particularly in response to broader societal concerns. “There’s a fear of events that could slow society down, like power grid outages,” he explains. Todd emphasized how the homesteading movement is gaining traction, meaning families will seek smaller, more affordable homes that enable independent living. These designs incorporate features like personal power generation, food-growing spaces, and alternative education setups. “Construction is only getting more expensive, so people are rethinking what a smaller home can look like,” Pete adds. Companies offering small home kits for rural and suburban living are paving the way for this shift.

4. Land Turnover

There will be a massive turnover in farmland ownership. “The Farmers’ Almanac predicts this will be the largest land turnover in 20 years,” says Lindsay. As older generations of farmers pass on, their properties of vast stretches of land will become available for purchase, offering new opportunities for many market sectors.However, this turnover also raises questions about foreign investment. “There’s been talk about limiting foreign parties in these transactions,” Todd notes. “If that happens, it’ll be interesting to see how the turnover plays out.”

These trends reflect a dynamic industry responding to cultural, environmental, and technological shifts. At Vessel, we embrace these changes as opportunities to innovate and deliver meaningful spaces. Our team is ready to help clients flourish in 2025 and beyond.

Interested in how these trends might shape your next project? Contact us to learn more about our forward-thinking approach to design and our proven process for success.