Each year, designers from all over the world flock to Milan for one incredible week of inspiration—and this year was no different. I spent a whirlwind week exploring Milan Design Week 2025 and Salone del Mobile, along with some of the city’s most talked-about exhibitions. And wow—what a week!
There’s something electric about being surrounded by so much creativity – from beautifully curated spaces to playful experiments in materiality and form, the experience left me full of ideas (and camera roll overload!).
But what stood out most were the themes that felt not only exciting, but relevant to how we live here in Australia—because while Milan might be halfway around the world, the ideas it sparks often find their way into the homes we create right here in Australia.
Whether you’re planning a renovation or decoration project for your own home or simply love seeing where design is heading, here’s a round-up of the interior design trends from Milan Design Week that I saw emerging—and what I’m excited to bring home…
1: Courageous colour
If you’ve been living in a world of white-on-white or grey interiors, brace yourself: colour is well and truly back. But it’s not loud or brash. Instead, the palette is rich, soulful, and a little unexpected: browns, berry tones, plum, burnt reds, and even pastels (used thoughtfully). These colours were layered with earthy textures and subtle patterns, creating comfort and personality without overwhelming a space.
The takeaway? Don’t be afraid to introduce colour. It’s perfect for injecting warmth and individuality into your home—whether through painted joinery, upholstery, or even just a bold art piece. Even a few well-chosen accents can change the mood of a room.
2: Chrome makes a confident comeback
One of the most noticeable trends this year? Polished chrome and stainless steel. After years of brushed brass and matte black dominating the scene, the return of high-shine metallics felt bold and modern, adding a sense of crispness and clarity to spaces without feeling cold or clinical.
The key takeaway? It’s all about contrast. Pairing shine with rich textures, natural timber, and soft upholstery keeps it feeling warm and intentional. It’s a bold but surprisingly versatile option for bathrooms, kitchens, and lighting details.
3: Lighting takes the spotlight
Lighting was a major focus across the week, from immersive installations to elegantly minimal fittings—celebrating lighting as not just a functional need, but a creative, emotional layer in design. What I loved most was the emphasis on how lighting transforms a space at different times of day and how it can create mood, drama, or calm with just a flick of a switch (or a well-placed pendant).
We saw everything from sculptural ceiling pieces to slimline wall lights and integrated joinery lighting—all reminding me how impactful great lighting design is. Lighting isn’t just practical, it’s atmospheric—bringing warmth, dimension, and flow to a home.
Whether you’re creating a calm retreat or a lively family hub, great lighting makes all the difference.
4: Materiality matters and “touch-me” textures
In contrast to all the shine, there was also a huge focus on materiality. Think handwoven textiles and wall hangings, raw timber, stone, and experimental ceramics. We saw lots of pieces that celebrated their imperfections, creating a feeling of groundedness and tactility. It was a lovely reminder of how powerful materials can be.
There was a noticeable move toward furniture and finishes that invite you to slow down and connect—whether it’s a woven feature chair, an organic stone benchtop, or timber joinery with real texture and grain. It’s not just about what looks good—it’s about what feels good too.
This felt especially relevant to Australian homes, where we crave warmth and authenticity in our materials.
5: Sustainability (and technology) gets creative
It’s no longer a bonus when materials are sustainable—it’s becoming the norm – however it was great to see that sustainability was one of the interior design trends from Milan Design Week. And sustainability has well and truly evolved beyond just recycled materials—it’s now about process, production, and longevity. Many exhibitors across Salone and the satellite shows showcased designs using reclaimed timber, recycled glass, and innovative 3D-printed forms that reduce waste in production.
And while 3D printing might sound futuristic, it’s increasingly being used to create bespoke shapes, lighting, furniture and objects with minimal impact.
The most exciting part? Sustainability didn’t feel like a compromise. It was joyful, colourful, and beautifully resolved—proof that we can make better choices and still create stunning spaces.
6: Playful Maximalism
Last but not least—playful maximalism is back in a big way. Think bold pattern, nostalgic references, and unexpected furniture shapes. There was also a noticeable 70s and 80s influence across the fair, but reimagined with a sense of fun and sophistication. Think curves, gloss, graphic prints, and sculptural forms that bring personality and confidence to a space. It was joyful and a little nostalgic, but always refined.
While full-blown maximalism might not be for everyone, there’s something to be said for embracing a little more joy in our interiors—whether it’s through art, colour, or a quirky piece that makes you smile every time you walk past it.
So, what am I bringing home and into the McMillan Design studio….
The interior design trends from Milan Design Week are always inspiring—but it’s the ideas that translate into real, everyday living that matter most to me.
I came away reminded of just how powerful considered design can be, and how every design choice is an opportunity to create a space that feels right for you.
Whether it’s layering materials, elevating lighting, choosing sustainable finishes, or introducing colour and character, we’ll be blending this global inspiration with practical, personal design that works for our clients’ lifestyle.
If you’re planning a renovation or want help creating a home that feels thoughtful, inviting, and uniquely yours, we’d love to chat. Book your free 20-minute Discovery Call here to get started.
Until next time Milan! Grazie mille for the inspiration and fabulous memories.
Anna x
PS: If you’d love interior design tips delivered to your inbox—sign up here to the McMillan Design Edit our monthly newsletter, where we share a curated selection of our projects, expert tips and behind the scenes of our studio.