Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about how homes in this area are undergoing a refreshing transformation. From the leafy lanes of Long Grove to the lake-hugging homes of Hawthorn Woods and Barrington, the trends shaping home design in 2025 reflect not just what’s in style, but what homeowners now value most: comfort, authenticity, and connection—with nature and with each other.
Crafting a Cozy & Conscious Haven
Up until recently many living rooms had felt bare. They were relics of the minimalist craze that now felt as cold as a winter morning. This year has ushered in Cozy Minimalism with spaces occupied by an oversized linen sofa, a glorious cloud of comfort that invites languid afternoons. Rounded edges on a coffee table soften the space, while terracotta throw pillows add pops of earthy warmth. Stark white walls have given way to creamy beige, a color that seems to hum with serenity. It isn't about clutter; it is about curated comfort, about creating a space that reflects the owner.
Painting Our World with Purpose
The shift in color palettes has been the most surprising. Gone are the days of choosing a paint chip just because it "looks nice." Now, color is the soul of the home, a conscious choice with psychological roots. No longer do we mulling over swatches just for aesthetics, but for the feeling they evoke. A bedroom, once a cool gray, is now a deep, soothing sage green, a hue chosen specifically to promote calm and restorative sleep. The living room’s new beige is accented with built-in bookcases in warm terracotta, a bold stroke that brings a grounded energy to the room. Every brushstroke is a deliberate act of well-being.
Beyond the Curb, A Statement of Style
The exteriors of homes have shed their cookie-cutter past. Once-pale siding can now be a rich, deep blue, a sophisticated backdrop for the vibrant green landscaping. I’m seeing mixed materials, incorporating dark wood accents around the windows and new, energy-efficient metal roofs that glint subtly in the morning sun. It isn’t just about looking good; it is a statement, a financial decision as much as an aesthetic one. As a long-time Realtor, it’s wonderful to see thoughtful updates that enhance a home's value, reflecting more modern sensibilities.
Extending a Home's Heartbeat
A true revolution has unfolded in the backyard. I’m seeing the lines between inside and out blurred. A patio, once a simple slab of concrete, is now an extension of a living room. An outdoor kitchen, complete with a built-in grill and a small fridge allows for al fresco dinners to be a regular occurrence. Smart lighting can be dimmed or brightened with a voice command, creating the perfect ambiance. Even working from home has found a new space, with a comfortable outdoor lounge chair becoming a favorite "office" on sunny days. Outdoor living isn't a luxury anymore; it is an essential, cost-effective way to expand a home’s functional living space.
Nurturing Nature at Home
Beyond the patio, landscaping and gardens reflect nature’s vibrant tapestry. It isn't just about pretty flowers. I’m impressed whenever I see how homeowners are now embracing sustainable landscaping, opting for native plants that require less water and maintenance. A small, raised bed overflows with herbs and vegetables – fresh basil for pasta, ripe tomatoes for salads. Backyards can be a productive sanctuary where a family can literally nurture nature and cultivate calm. Digging hands into the rich earth is a grounding experience, a simple act that brings profound joy.
Our Home, Our Masterpiece – Designed for Joy
As the sun climbs higher, long shadows are cast across my lawn. Our suburban home in 2025 is more than just walls and a roof; it is a masterpiece of thoughtful design, a testament to personalization and sustainability. It is a place where comfort and style intertwine with a deep connection to nature. It is our sanctuary, our canvas for self-expression, and, most importantly, a constant source of daily joy and rejuvenation.
(Photo on page xx) In a nod to European design, organic shapes & curves bring drama, depth, and a sense of flow and openness to spaces. This trend extends beyond doorways to windows and even furniture, with arched cabinets being particularly popular. Sofas and chairs are also adopting soft, curved lines reminiscent of the Seventies and Eighties, adding a touch of nostalgic comfort.
(Previous lefthand page - left) An "explosion of texture" is evident in walls, ceilings, and floors, with moldings, wainscotting, wallpapered ceilings, wood paneling, and patterned floors (like herringbone) gaining popularity.
(Previous lefthand page - center) Your home's exterior makes a stylish statement that harmonizes with nature. Earthy Greens (sage, olive) are a standout trend, blending modern sophistication with rustic charm and often paired with white trim or warm wood.
(Previous lefthand page - right) This richly paneled office reflects today’s design trends: a return to warm wood tones, curated personal touches, and built-in sophistication. With layered lighting, detailed millwork, and heritage furnishings, it embodies the “lived-in luxury” movement that prioritizes comfort, character, and craftsmanship.
(Previous righthand page) Patios and backyards are becoming dynamic, multi-functional extensions of the home. These Multi-functional Spaces serve for relaxation, entertainment, and even remote work, with 64% of homeowners aspiring to create them. Maximizing outdoor living space is also a more affordable alternative to upsizing a home.
(Opposite page) Gardens in 2025 are vibrant extensions of the home, focusing on sustainability, low maintenance, and well-being.
“Outdoor living isn't a luxury anymore; it is an essential, cost-effective way to expand a home’s functional living space.”
About the Author: Michael Kurowski is a real estate agent with Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty in Barrington and is licensed in both IL and WI. To learn more about the latest trends in housing and how you can best increase your home’s value, please call 847.804.7350 or visit michaelkurowski.jamesonsir.com/.