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Open-plan or cosy corners? This year’s top interior choices

The rise of open-plan living

Open-plan spaces have been a favourite for many years, and they’re still going strong in 2025. The appeal lies in their ability to create an airy, flowing environment that’s perfect for family living or entertaining guests. Whether you’re cooking, dining, or relaxing, an open-plan layout can make a home feel more expansive and connected. This trend is especially popular in urban areas where space can be limited, and the goal is to maximise every inch. For homes with larger footprints, open-plan living allows for a multifunctional space that can easily be adapted to suit various needs—from work-from-home setups to spacious family gatherings.

Cosy corners: The counter-trend

While open-plan living is here to stay, many homeowners are starting to embrace cosy corners and more intimate spaces. As people spend more time at home, there’s a desire for rooms that offer retreat and relaxation. This trend is all about creating quiet, personal sanctuaries where you can unwind, read, or enjoy a cup of tea away from the bustle of family life. Think small nooks with comfy chairs, soft lighting, and rich textures. In fact, cosy corners have become a popular feature in living rooms, bedrooms, and even hallways, offering a contrast to the vast, open spaces of modern homes.

Sustainability meets design

As sustainability continues to be a top priority for homeowners, 2025 sees a strong focus on eco-friendly interiors. Sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and cork are gaining traction, as are energy-efficient appliances and natural finishes. Not only does this trend help reduce the environmental impact, but it also creates warm, earthy interiors that bring the beauty of nature indoors. Adding plants to your home, whether it’s a small succulent on the windowsill or a lush indoor garden, continues to be a favourite way to promote health and well-being while enhancing the natural feel of your space.

Smart homes: Technology that blends in

2025 is shaping up to be the year when smart home technology becomes an even more integrated part of interior design. Homeowners are increasingly seeking out technology that’s both functional and stylish. From smart thermostats that adapt to your schedule to voice-activated lighting systems, the key is to ensure these technological features are seamlessly blended into the home. Think minimalist design, with smart features subtly integrated into furniture or fixtures, offering both convenience and style.

Colour palettes: Earth tones and bold contrasts

While neutral tones like whites, greys, and beige continue to dominate, 2025 brings a shift towards warmer, earthier colours—think terracotta, deep greens, and rich browns. These hues create an inviting atmosphere and evoke a sense of comfort and calm. At the same time, bold contrasts are making their way into more modern homes, with dramatic combinations like navy and gold, black and white, or dark green paired with blush pinks. Mixing soft tones with bold accents allows for both serenity and excitement within a room.

Flexible spaces: A room for everything

As the hybrid work model becomes more entrenched, homes are being designed to cater to both work and leisure. Flexible spaces are key this year—rooms that can be easily adapted to suit various functions. Home offices are now more stylish, with ergonomic furniture, ample storage, and high-tech features. However, rather than one dedicated office space, many are opting for versatile rooms that can serve as a home gym, media room, or creative studio, depending on the family’s needs at any given moment.

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Is your home garden-ready? Outdoor upgrades buyers love

Why gardens matter in today’s market

As we head into the warmer months of 2025, outdoor space is becoming more important than ever for buyers. Whether it's for relaxing, entertaining, or simply enjoying the fresh air, a well-kept garden can be a major selling point. With more people working from home and seeking a better quality of life, gardens have become an essential part of the ideal property package. According to recent trends, buyers are looking for gardens that offer more than just space—they’re looking for an outdoor haven where they can unwind, entertain, or even grow their own food. If your garden is ready for the season, you could be in a prime position to catch the attention of potential buyers.

Create a welcoming first impression

First impressions matter, and your garden is the first thing buyers will see when they arrive at your property. A tidy, well-maintained outdoor area instantly signals that your home has been cared for. Simple actions like trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, and adding a fresh coat of paint to fences or gates can make a huge difference. If you want to go the extra mile, consider adding a few eye-catching elements, such as potted plants or hanging baskets, to bring colour and life to your garden. Even small touches like a new doormat or a stylish outdoor rug can set the tone for a warm welcome.

Outdoor living spaces: Extend the home experience

With more people looking for homes that offer a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, creating an inviting outdoor living space is a smart investment. Buyers are keen on gardens that provide a space for dining, lounging, or even working outdoors. Adding a deck, a patio, or a simple seating area with comfortable furniture and ambient lighting can instantly increase the appeal of your garden. Think about adding a BBQ area or even an outdoor kitchen for those who love to entertain. For families, a safe, flat area where children can play or where pets can roam will always be a bonus.

Gardening trends buyers love

Not all buyers are looking for a low-maintenance garden. In fact, many people are eager to grow their own herbs, vegetables, and flowers, making a garden ready for planting a huge draw. Raised beds, vegetable patches, and garden tools neatly stored in a shed can appeal to those with a green thumb. Adding a compost area or installing a water feature to collect rainwater can also highlight your garden’s sustainability. These eco-friendly upgrades are not only trendy but align with the growing demand for environmentally conscious living. For buyers who prefer a more relaxed garden, consider installing a small greenhouse or adding climbing plants to walls or fences for added texture and character.

Lighting: Bring your garden to life after dark

Once the sun sets, a well-lit garden can transform into a magical outdoor space. Garden lighting is one of the easiest ways to enhance your outdoor area, creating an inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings or simply relaxing under the stars. Consider solar-powered lights along paths, spotlights highlighting garden features, or string lights draped over a pergola or fence. Ambient lighting can extend the usability of your garden well into the evening, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers who enjoy alfresco living.

Seasonal upgrades: Prepare your garden for spring and summer

Now is the perfect time to make sure your garden is spring and summer-ready. This is the season when buyers are most likely to view homes, and having a well-prepared outdoor space will give your property the edge. Planting seasonal flowers like daffodils, tulips, or primroses will add colour and freshness. Clean up any fallen leaves or debris from the winter months, and consider investing in some new garden furniture to showcase your space as both functional and stylish. A little seasonal TLC can make your garden the perfect place for buyers to imagine themselves enjoying the warmer months.

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Where are house prices heading next? A look at the latest trends

The UK property market has been dominated by a persistent trend over the past year high demand coupled with limited supply. While the property market has faced its challenges, the underlying factor of strong demand has kept house prices on the rise in many areas. According to Zoopla’s recent analysis, certain regions continue to see robust buyer interest, particularly in suburban and rural locations. This demand is pushing prices upwards, especially for larger homes with more space something that’s become a priority for many buyers. As we move deeper into 2025, this trend is expected to continue as people seek properties that offer both comfort and convenience.

Mortgage rates: A stabilising factor

While mortgage rates saw some fluctuation in the past few years, the current outlook is more stable. With inflation gradually easing, experts predict that the Bank of England may keep rates steady for the foreseeable future. This is good news for buyers, as the cost of borrowing remains relatively affordable compared to historical norms. Even with a slight rise in rates, the availability of competitive mortgage deals is helping keep the market buoyant. For those ready to buy, this stability offers a level of confidence that prices will continue to climb, albeit at a more moderate pace.

Government schemes: Boosting buyer confidence

Government initiatives, like stamp duty holidays and help-to-buy schemes, have proven to be vital in keeping the property market accessible, especially for first-time buyers. These schemes continue to fuel demand, particularly in areas where properties remain relatively affordable. As we enter the second quarter of 2025, many buyers are feeling more secure in making their move due to these incentives. For anyone still uncertain about buying, these schemes provide a solid push to make that long-awaited purchase.

Regional variations: A tale of two markets

Not all parts of the UK are seeing the same level of price growth. While London and the South East have experienced more moderate increases, other areas such as the North and the Midlands are seeing steadier, but significant, growth. The shift towards working from home has influenced this regional disparity, with many buyers opting for homes outside the city hubs, where they can get more for their money. For buyers in these areas, it’s an exciting time, as their property searches offer excellent value compared to more central locations.

What’s next for the property market?

Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be another positive year for house prices, albeit with a more measured pace of growth. With strong buyer demand, stabilising mortgage rates, and ongoing government support, the UK property market is in a good position. Areas outside London, in particular, will continue to see strong price appreciation as more people make the move to more spacious and affordable homes. While the market may not see the same explosive growth as in previous years, it is still an exciting time to be involved in the property sector.

Find out how to make the most of the market today

Fresh air and flexible spaces: How buyer priorities are shifting

The rise of hybrid living: Redefining home priorities

The shift to hybrid working has transformed what UK homebuyers seek in a property. No longer just a place to rest, homes now double as offices, gyms, and sanctuaries. This evolution has led to a surge in demand for properties that offer both functional indoor spaces and inviting outdoor areas.

Outdoor spaces: The new essential

Gardens, balconies, and terraces have become top priorities for buyers. The desire for private outdoor space has intensified, with many seeking areas to relax, entertain, or cultivate a garden. This trend reflects a broader appreciation for nature and the benefits of fresh air, especially after extended periods indoors.

Flexible interiors: Adapting to new lifestyles

Inside the home, versatility is key. Buyers are looking for properties with adaptable spaces rooms that can serve as home offices, gyms, or guest bedrooms. Open-plan layouts and multifunctional areas are particularly appealing, offering the flexibility to accommodate various activities throughout the dy.

Location preferences: Balancing connectivity and tranquillity

While proximity to city centers remains important, there's a growing interest in suburban and rural areas that offer more space and a closer connection to nature. Buyers are weighing the benefits of larger homes and greener surroundings against the need for commuting convenience, often opting for locations that provide a balance of both.

Sustainable features: A growing consideration

Energy efficiency and sustainability are increasingly influencing buying decisions. Features like solar panels, efficient insulation, and eco-friendly materials are not just environmentally responsible choices they also promise long-term cost savings, making them attractive to the modern buyer.

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