De-Core: A Guide to Core Styles in 2025
The “-core” trend in interior design serves as a defining element for various style movements. Each core style is typically influenced by a specific aesthetic era, theme, or concept. These styles not only provide homeowners with a narrative for their design choices but also guide them towards achieving a cohesive look. In the digital age, core styles help consumers discover inspiration, source products, and better understand their personal interior preferences.
We take a look at how familiar cores will be making an impact in 2025 homes.
Scandi Core
Woodline, Uniwood 92 cushion vinyl from £25.99 per m2, Leoline.
Based on simplicity, functionality and a need to connect with nature, this popular style continues to evolve and has been at the heart of styles such as Japandi.
Predictions for 2025: The ability to pair back to the barest essentials while still incorporating the fundamentals will appeal to those looking for a modern, crisp and clean update with all the comfort of Scandi core.
Cottage Core
left Jennie Handmade Block Print Cotton Quilt in Pale Blue from £135, Poppy Pleated Scallop Lampshade £95, Hand Block cotton cushions from £30 middle Cotton Block Printed Scallop Lampshades from £95 right Block Print Quilted Cotton Reversible Place Mat – 004 from £15
This welcoming aesthetic draws on the fundamentals of country cottage and rural life. From incorporating craft, and traditional patterns such as ginghams and checks, to bright colours, Cottage Core remains a popular choice for those looking for comforting familiarity.
Predictions for 2025: Repurposing and upcycling remain a popular continue to feature for those looking to make an impact on landfill or those looking for cost-effective accent pieces.
Coastal Core
Sorrento 3051 Columba rug with Cornflower border from £260 (1m x 1m), Riviera Home UK.
Founded on recreating the calming and relaxing colour palettes and natural textures of coastal landscapes, Coastal Core offers a welcoming aesthetic that plays on a need to reminisce on beach and travel escapes.
Predictions for 2025: While textures played an original foundation of this style, a move towards natural fibres will increase, with natural floors, accessories and finishes taking centre stage.
Gothic Core
main image Moduleo Moods Wicker 266 from £57.39 per m2 left Moduleo Moods Big Hexagon 259 from £57.39 per m2 right Moduleo Moods Chevron 103 from £57.39 per m2, Moduleo
More than just a dark colour scheme, Gothic Core draws from Gothic architecture, using rich, dark tones, ornate details, and luxurious fabrics to create a dramatic atmosphere.
Predictions for 2025: Keep your eyes peeled for a rise in dark flooring. Rather than painting walls, ceilings and furniture with dark paint, floors can easily add impact with patterns or rich wood styles.
Contemporary Core
left Amato, Natural Oak Extra Matt hardwood floor from £63.99 per m2 middle Amato, Pure Oak Extra Matt hardwood floor from £59.99 per m2 right Amato, Pure Oak Extra Matt hardwood floor from £59.99 per m2, Quick-Step.
Contemporary Core is a more fluid movement that’s constantly evolving but builds on the latest contemporary trends. At the heart of the look is a balance between simplicity, and functionality characterised by clean lines, cool tones and uncluttered minimalism.
Predictions for 2025: Look out for light flooring trends that support a fresh and crisp colour palette.
Shabby Chic Core
Craft Papercut collecction, 9358 Campanula from £175 (80 x 150cm), Louis De Poortere.
Shabby Chic takes its roots from antique and vintage furnishings. This can be achieved by sourcing key features and accessories while keeping walls and floors a plain, supportive foundation.
Predictions for 2025: Shabby Chic gets an elegant update with the addition of art-inspired pieces in the form of accessories. This can be a talking point such as this rug inspired by the iconic Bauhaus movement.