Brass boldness to timeless textures: 3 recent interior design trends

Written by Milan Jara on 14th May 2025

Interior design trends are forever changing and it’s all about trying to stay ahead of the curve by finding interesting, different ways to present a room in a way that hasn’t quite been seen before.

Here at DecorativeCeilingTiles.net, it’s no secret that we, our customers, and our community love interior design and décor. Taking note of what our customers purchase and then seeing it come to life in beautiful homes and commercial buildings across the country (..& the world! - that’s right, we offer global shipping) keeps us passionate and constantly excited!

Recently, we’ve seen noticed a surge in popularity around three standout styles that certainly aren’t new to the interior design scene, but have come back in style:

• Brushed Brass Aluminum Laminate Panels
• Heritage Faux Wood Ceiling Beams
• Rounded Mini Slat Wall Panels – Ash Polystyrene/Faux Wood

& we’re excited to give you some insight as to what’s driving these trends and why designers, homeowners, and DIYers can’t get enough of them!

1. Glamor makes a comeback: Brushed Brass Aluminum Laminate

Brass is back, and it’s bolder, sleeker, and more versatile than ever. While copper and polished aluminum have had their moment (& it looks like they’re not going anywhere, anytime soon), brushed brass has come back into the spotlight, striking a balance between glamour and warmth.

Our Brushed Brass Aluminum Laminate Panels could just be the perfect way to give your home or commercial space a fast transformation from plain to beautiful in hours, as they don’t only look great and have a wide variety of applications, but they’re easy-to-install and being produced in sheets that are 4x8ft, each panel quickly covers a large area.

With its rich golden tone and subtle brushed texture, it adds instant sophistication to any space. The best part, this laminate isn’t just suitable to be installed as decorative ceiling panels, we’ve noticed that our customers are using it for accent walls, kitchen backsplash panels, cabinetry, and even commercial counters.

Why we think it’s trending:

• Warm metallic panels have been growing in popularity throughout the later half of 2024 and it hasn’t slowed down yet. People are trading cold, industrial finishes for warmer, more inviting tones, which aligns with the long-drawn out WFH trend.
• Mid-century modern is influencing everything from furniture to finishes, and brass is a big part of that story. We like to call it the “retro revival”
• Design flexibility: This panel works beautifully in both contemporary and classic settings, from ceilings to walls, commercial buildings to residential homes.

Design tip: Try pairing brushed brass with deep emerald green, navy, or even matte black to create a gorgeous contrast. Brushed brass is also stunning against natural wood tones.

See our full range of Ceiling Tiles and Wall Panels.

If the retro revival isn’t to your taste, how about something a little more rustic?

2. Rustic revival: Heritage Faux Wood Ceiling Beams

If there’s one trend that never seems to go out of style, it’s the warm, cozy appeal of wood. But real timber beams are heavy, expensive, and tricky to install. This is where faux wood beams step in. Faux beams offer all of the charm of reclaimed wood without the logistical headaches and expenses.

Our Heritage Faux Wood Beams are flying off the shelves, and for good reason. These 3-sided beams deliver the visual ‘wow-factor’ of real wood but they’re lightweight, easy to install, and available in a variety of finishes. The 20-foot length is perfect for dramatic open-concept spaces, vaulted ceilings, or even retail and hospitality settings.

Why we think it’s trending:

• Rustic yet modern: Whether it be a modern American farmhouse, a cozy mountain retreat, or urban lodge, these wood accents add warmth and character.
• Cost-effective charm: Faux beams give the look of real wood at a fraction of the price and without structural demands or logistical nightmares.
• Easy-installation: Wooden Ceiling Beams have never been an easy option when it comes to installation, but that’s all in the past when it comes to our range of lightweight faux beams.

Installation advice: If you’re a DIY enthusiast that’s considering installing some heritage faux beams yourself, we’ve put together this handy guide: Heritage Faux Beam Installation.

See our full range of Faux Wood Ceiling Beams

3. Rounded Mini Slats in Ash - a modern take on past home décor trend

One of the biggest trends that we’re seeing right now is the use of wood slat wall panels to add texture, sound absorption, and modern style to interiors, in a simply looking way, pressing the idea that minimalist doesn't have to mean boring.

Wood Slat Walls first gained popularity across the US and Europe around the mid 20th century. After being a bit “overdone”, they took a back seat for a while, but have come back strong in recent years, especially recent months, & these Rounded Mini Slats in a soft ash finish are leading the charge.

Sleek, lightweight, and easy to install, these polystyrene panels mimic the appearance of real wood slats but are more affordable and versatile in that they can be installed in just about any place that your imagination allows.

Their rounded edges add a soft, sculptural effect, making them a favorite in creative studios, fresh guest rooms, and stylish offices.

Why we think it’s trending:

• Natural aesthetics: Homeowners are embracing natural textures and materials to create calming, nature-inspired spaces. These faux wood slat wall panels invoke a tranquil feeling, but they’re never boring to look at and can inspire creativity.
• Acoustical advantages: These slat wall panels absorb and diffuse sound waves, making a more comfortable and quiet space.
• Eco-friendly and affordable: Made from the same eco-friendly material used in yogurt pots, these faux slat panels are a safer, more sustainable alternative to real timber, plus they’re lighter, more budget-friendly, and easier to install than genuine timber slat wall panels.

Design tip: Install these panels vertically to exaggerate a room’s height and add a bit of drama or horizontally for a cool, mid-century style. They’re also a great option for backdrop headboards or entertainment units.

See our full range of Faux Wood Slat Wall Panels

Wrapping up: On trend and on point

Design is personal, but staying aware of what’s trending helps you make choices that feel both current and lasting. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a designer sourcing for a client, or a homeowner with an exciting new vision, these three trending products offer fresh inspiration with endless possibilities.