The beginning of the year is always a great time to pause, reflect and reconsider your home decor. With an entire calendar at your disposal to plan ahead, the options are almost unlimited. 

In South Africa, many homemakers are particularly looking for new ways to decorate their homes with a mixture of local and international trends. From traditional prints which bring a unique touch to every home – to lighting fixtures that not only brighten rooms, but moods too – 2025 is an opportunity to continue creating the home of your dreams with a few easy adjustments. 

With all that in mind, we’ve decided to put together a list of home decor trends to decorate your space in a way that makes it feel like home.

Ten Home Decor Trends To Inspire the South African Home Maker

Statement Vases as Art Pieces

Oversized and sculptural vases are trending as standalone art pieces. Whether ceramic, glass, or metal, these vases are used to add personality to tables, shelves, and entryways, even without flowers.

Using Lighting To make A Statement

In 2025, Lighting is no longer just functional; sculptural pendants and floor lamps are becoming key focal points in rooms. Organic shapes, oversized fixtures, and materials like brass and rattan add a sense of grandeur, particularly for homemakers who like to host.

Smart Taps Bring Modern Efficiency

Smart taps with motion sensors and touch-free operation are trending for their hygiene and water-saving benefits. Features like preset temperatures and sleek finishes add both convenience and style to modern bathrooms.

Curved Bath Tubs: Soothing Elegance

Curved bath tubs with soft, rounded edges are making a comeback. These designs create a sense of luxury and relaxation, while freestanding options serve as statement pieces in contemporary bathrooms.

Terrazzo Tiles: A Timeless Revival

Terrazzo tiles are regaining popularity for their durability and vibrant, speckled designs especially in South African homes. Available in a wide range of colors, they are being used for bathroom walls, floors, and even vanities to add texture and visual interest.

Frameless Showers: Sleek and Spacious

Frameless glass showers continue to dominate bathroom trends. Their minimalist design creates an open, airy feel, perfect for smaller bathrooms or those looking to emphasize modern simplicity.

Bold and Unique Clocks for Wall Décor

Clocks are no longer just functional; they are becoming statement wall art. From oversized minimalist designs to intricate African-inspired patterns, modern clocks add a stylish focal point to any room.

Sustainable Living Is Here To Stay

With the global focus on sustainability, South African homes are embracing locally sourced wood, recycled materials, and natural fibers like sisal and hemp for furniture and decor. South African homes are also increasingly running on clean energy. 

Dual-Purpose Furniture for Small Spaces

As urban living spaces get smaller and smaller (I’m looking at you, Johannesburg North), multifunctional furniture like ottomans with hidden storage, modular sofas, and fold-away desks are increasingly sought after.

Modern Toilets: Sleek, Smart and Space-Saving

Smart toilets are bringing efficiency to the modern bathroom. Along with the sleek and contemporary styles, no-touch toilets are a trend to keep an eye on. Bringing self-opening, self-cleaning, and self-flushing features while keeping your water usage low, these modern solutions are growing in popularity. Wall-mounted options are especially popular, offering a minimalist look while saving floor space. Matte finishes and subtle colors, like soft gray or beige, are replacing traditional glossy white for a more sophisticated touch.