Top materials designers love in 2025 (and why they work)
Every year brings a new wave of materials, finishes, and textures that reshape how we experience interiors. In 2025, interior designers are focusing on materials that not only look beautiful but also tell a story of sustainability, innovation, and authenticity.
In the UAE, where design meets luxury and practicality, these material choices play a key role in Design & Build and Fit-Out projects across commercial and office spaces. At Horton Interiors, our team looks for materials that enhance function, durability, and mood creating spaces that feel as good as they look.
1. Natural stone with modern finishes
Natural stone continues to dominate interiors in 2025, but designers are now favouring new finishes like brushed, fluted, and honed surfaces. These offer a refined texture and soften the natural patterns of marble, travertine, and quartzite.
Used in reception areas, feature walls, and flooring, natural stone brings timeless elegance while remaining durable for high-traffic spaces, a perfect fit for UAE offices and commercial projects.
2. Warm wood tones and reconstituted veneers
Wood is back in a big way, but not just in its traditional form. Reconstituted veneers and engineered timber are increasingly popular for their sustainable sourcing and design flexibility. Warm tones like oak, walnut, and ash create a sense of comfort and balance, something every modern workspace needs.
These materials pair beautifully with metal accents and soft furnishings, giving interiors a more grounded and natural aesthetic.
3. Textured metals and brushed finishes
In 2025, metal isn’t just for structure, it’s part of the design language. Brass, bronze, and blackened steel are being used to add depth and contrast in everything from lighting fixtures to partition details.
Brushed or matte finishes soften their shine, offering a sophisticated look that complements both modern and industrial styles. In fit-out projects across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these finishes are a designer favourite for adding subtle luxury.
4. Acoustic fabrics and smart materials
With hybrid work becoming the norm, designers are paying more attention to acoustics. Fabric panels, wool blends, and sound-absorbing wall finishes are now standard in collaborative and meeting spaces.
Beyond comfort, smart materials such as stain-resistant upholstery or antimicrobial surfaces are also shaping how interior designers think about health, hygiene, and long-term maintenance.
5. Sustainable surfaces
Sustainability remains at the heart of design in 2025. Recycled glass, terrazzo, and composite surfaces made from reclaimed materials are now common in Design & Build projects. These materials don’t just reduce waste; they also give designers the chance to create one-of-a-kind finishes that reflect environmental responsibility.
For UAE businesses aiming to meet green building standards, such choices are both practical and future-focused.
Why materials matter
The choice of materials defines the experience of a space. Whether it’s a textured wall that draws the eye, flooring that withstands daily movement, or soft finishes that create comfort, materials play a central role in how people interact with interiors.
At Horton Interiors, we blend creativity with technical know-how to select materials that align with both design vision and functional needs ensuring that every project we deliver not only looks impressive but stands the test of time.
Planning a new space or redesigning your office? Contact Horton Interiors today for expert Design & Build and Fit-Out services across the UAE.
