Beyond Open Floor Plans: How 2025 Is Shaping a More Intentional Home Design
By Carissa Kristoff
Realtor, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties
As we step into 2025, the way we design and interact with our living spaces continues to evolve, reflecting shifts in our priorities, lifestyles, and the world around us. This year, I’m excited to highlight four key trends reshaping how we think about home: pet-friendly “barkitecture,” kitchens transforming into social hubs, the calming influence of biophilic design, and a return to the privacy and intimacy of more secluded spaces.
1. Barkitecture: Designing with Pets in Mind
For many of us, pets aren’t just companions—they’re family. “Barkitecture” is a trend that caters to this sentiment, incorporating pet-friendly features seamlessly into our homes. From custom-built nooks for dog beds to cat-friendly climbing walls and even pet washing stations, these thoughtful design elements elevate the convenience and comfort of pet ownership.
As a real estate professional, I’ve seen buyers light up when they spot a home with features tailored to their furry friends. Whether it’s a backyard with built-in agility courses or a kitchen with pull-out food and water stations, these details are becoming sought-after selling points.
2. Kitchens as Social Hubs
In 2025, the kitchen continues to reign as the heart of the home, but it’s no longer just a place for meal prep. This year, we’re seeing a reimagining of the kitchen as a multifunctional space designed for connection and community.
Expect to find larger kitchen islands with built-in seating, open shelving for displaying cherished items, and cozy nooks that invite lingering conversations over coffee. This shift reflects a broader desire to make our homes more welcoming and functional, blending practicality with personality.
For those looking to sell, updating your kitchen with these social elements can add significant value. Simple upgrades like installing modern lighting over the island or creating a semi-open layout can make your space more appealing to today’s buyers.
3. Biophilic Design: Bringing the Outdoors In
Biophilic design—integrating natural elements into living spaces—has been gaining momentum, and for good reason. In our increasingly digital world, connecting with nature offers a grounding and calming effect.
Think large windows framing outdoor views, indoor plants thriving in natural light, and materials like wood, stone, and bamboo creating a sense of harmony. Even small touches, like a vertical garden or a water feature, can make a big difference.
As someone who loves gardening and DIY projects, I can attest to the transformative power of greenery in a home. It not only enhances aesthetics but also improves air quality and mental well-being—a true win-win for homeowners.
4. The Rise of Secluded Spaces
While open-plan layouts have dominated home design for years, there’s a growing shift towards creating private, intimate spaces. The pandemic taught us the value of quiet corners for work, relaxation, and family time.
In 2025, we’ll see more homes with designated zones for specific activities: a cozy reading room, a meditation nook, or even a small library. These spaces provide a welcome retreat from the busyness of everyday life and cater to the diverse needs of modern families.
If you’re planning to sell your home, consider staging a spare room as a dedicated retreat. It’s a simple yet impactful way to help potential buyers envision themselves unwinding and finding their sanctuary.
Final Thoughts
As a real estate professional with nearly two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how design trends shape the market. The key to staying ahead is understanding not just what’s popular, but why these trends resonate with today’s buyers and homeowners.
Whether you’re preparing to buy, sell, or simply refresh your space, embracing these emerging trends can enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s value. If you’re curious about how to integrate these ideas into your home—or want to discuss your real estate goals—I’d love to help.
Here’s to creating spaces that inspire and delight in 2025!
About Carissa Kristoff
With 19 years in residential real estate, Carissa Kristoff has built a reputation for providing clarity and confidence throughout every stage of buying, selling, or leasing a home. As part of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties team, she collaborates with seasoned brokers, agents, and administrators to secure optimal outcomes for her clients. Carissa’s work ethic is matched by her commitment to enjoying life: she’s an avid sailor, snow skier, and certified yoga instructor. She also brings a hands-on approach to homeownership, thanks to her background running a residential cleaning and management company, where she honed her DIY skills in gardening, painting, and decorating. Whether guiding a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, Carissa leverages her well-rounded experience to simplify the process and deliver top results.
