Top Interior Design Trends in Charleston, SC for 2025: A Local Perspective

Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its rich history, coastal charm, and vibrant culture. As we step into 2025, the city's interior design scene is embracing trends that reflect its unique character, setting it apart from national movements. Here are some of the top interior design trends in Charleston for 2025:

1. Coastal Minimalism x Modern

Here the water influences our local design aesthetic, and in 2025 what we’re seeing is a shift from some of the more traditional coastal and nautical themes. Expect a more modern approach to design, think clean lines and simple not stark interiors. I estimate will have a continued focus on muted palettes of oyster gray, warm whites, and sage green, though another trend for the year includes bold paint colors and statement cabinetry so this might be a thing too! I’m secretly loving this design look as I think it shows a subtle coastal influence with a relaxed and zen like feel.

2. Patterns & Wallpaper

While wallpaper has always been a staple in interior design, though at times more liked than others, Charleston is embracing some new takes on this old standby. This year, I am seeing a trend of more patterns, patterns on patterns (aka pattern mixing) and even some unique finishes. I’m encouraging clients to let the wallpaper serve as a statement, adding some visual interest to a room, maybe just one wall, or a unique artistic element like on a ceiling.

3. Bold Colors

Nationally, we’re seeing a move away from some of those aforementioned neutrals and a huge embrace for color, particularly those moody colors. I love working with the deep navys, olive greens and charcoals of the pack, and we might even see more use of vibrant hues like rich terracottas, which are a favorite of mine. These colors add a good dose of energy and passion to a room, and I expect to invite them in through furniture pieces and textiles, or a cool tile choice. Peep my most recent project with Spire Contracting for a beautiful tile we chose from Mirth Studios to see this in action.

4. Statement Lighting with a Local Flair

Lighting in Charleston is taking on a more artistic and sculptured feel. We’ve always been a sucker for those wrought iron fixtures and exterior gas lanterns, but this year I’m seeing a bit of a modern take on old favorites that view lighting like art as a conversation piece.

5. Eco Friendly and Locally Sourced Materials

Sustainability is a growing concern nationwide, and a focus of my own. On a side note I’ve been on the green revolution for the last 20 years. Here locally I’m hearing from many clients who wish to incorporate clean materials into their renovations like low VOC paints, natural materials, and advanced air and water filtration. I’m also seeing the same in interior design work like the use of oyster shells in art and pine. I love how this supports local artisans and gives homes a certain je ne sais quoi that is entirely Lowcountry.

6. Indoor-Outdoor Living Spaces

Given Charleston's temperate climate, there's a strong emphasis on blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. While this has been the case in years passed, now more than ever we are designing spaces that let the outdoors in, and give clients yet another gathering space. I love the use of large French doors, metal accordion doors, and verandas and gardens that make the interior feel like it is immersed in nature.

7. Eclectic Mix of Antiques and Modern Elements

While national trends may favor more stark minimalist designs, Charleston's interiors in 2025 are characterized by an eclectic mix of antiques and modern elements. I adore how this approach seamlessly gives a nod to the city’s rich history and offers a fun take on modern elements. Expect to see an electric mix of curated vintage finds paired with more sleep and minimal art and furnitures. I like to think of it as timeless x current.

8. Custom Curated Art

Charleston's vibrant arts scene is influencing interior design by encouraging the use of local artisans and custom handcrafted items. I’m seeing more locally made furniture such as headboards and dining tables, and of course we are always looking to adorn the walls with local artist pieces. I also have a slight obsession with unique and one of a kind, so you’ll be seeing more on that front too!

Here’s to 2025, and Charleston continuously setting itself apart from the crowd!