2025 Paint Colors to Avoid According to Designers
When it comes to home improvement projects, few updates are as instantly transformative as a fresh coat of paint. The color you choose can set the tone for your space, influence how you feel when you’re in it, and even affect its value. That said, picking the wrong paint color can lead to less desirable results, leaving a room feeling outdated, overwhelming, or just “off.”
Chicago homeowners navigating renovations in 2025 should take note of designers’ insights about which paint colors to steer clear of. Whether you’re planning a modern living room transformation, a luxury home makeover, or a full-service home renovation, avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure you create a space that feels timeless and welcoming.
Areté’s designer experts are here to share the paint colors to avoid in 2025 and highlight tips for choosing the perfect shade for your home.
The Impact of Color on Mood and Space
Paint colors are not just cosmetic. They play a vital role in shaping the mood of a room and affecting how you experience a space. For example, certain bold hues can make a small room feel cramped, while lighter shades can expand its perceived size.
Additionally, lighting, whether natural or artificial, dramatically impacts how a color appears. A cool white that looks crisp in a bright, sun-filled room may appear sterile and cold under artificial lights. It’s crucial to consider your specific space, its purpose, and lighting conditions when making your selection.
2025 Colors to Avoid and Why
Here’s what our experts say are the paint colors to avoid this year and why they fall short in modern design trends.
1. Bright or Neon Yellow
Yellow is commonly linked to feelings of cheerfulness, but overly bright or neon tones can feel overpowering, particularly in home interiors. Neon yellow reflects too much light, which may cause eye strain and make it less ideal for relaxing areas like living rooms. For a more elegant and welcoming vibe, opt for a gentle pastel yellow with warm undertones instead.
2. Dark Brown
Dark brown, once a popular choice for a warm and inviting feel, is now often considered outdated and overwhelming, especially in spaces with little natural light. Its tendency to absorb light can make rooms feel smaller and more confined.
Consider switching to earthy shades like taupe, which bring warmth without the heaviness of dark brown.
3. Cool White
While white is still a favorite neutral, pure cool-toned whites have fallen out of favor in home design. These cooler shades can feel sterile and lack the inviting warmth that makes a house feel like home.
Warm off-whites are now the preferred option, providing a clean yet comfortable look that suits any room.
4. Red
Red is a bold color that symbolizes energy and passion, but it can feel overwhelming in most living spaces. Experts suggest that red can amplify emotions and even create tension, which conflicts with the calm and cozy atmosphere many homeowners aim for.
If you’re a fan of red, consider using it in small doses, like in decorative pieces or accent pillows, instead of painting entire walls.
5. Yellowing Whites
White paint that takes on yellow undertones over time can give spaces an outdated or dull appearance. Professionals suggest avoiding these tones, particularly in well-lit, high-traffic areas, where the yellowing effect tends to stand out more.
7. Orange and Purple
Bright oranges and purples can add energy, but too much of them may appear overwhelming. Opt for subtle, earthy tones of these colors to create a more refined and sophisticated look.
8. Maroon
Maroon has made comebacks in the past, but it’s often seen as outdated for interior design in 2025. Its dark and dated vibe doesn’t pair well with modern or minimalist styles. For a striking alternative, consider using oxblood instead.
9. Neon Pink
Bright neon pink can feel fun but may make a space look less refined. Instead, opt for softer shades like blush or dusty pink to create a warm, elegant atmosphere in your home.
Why These Colors Are Falling Out of Favor
Interior design shifts toward a more natural, calming, and versatile palette have pushed overly bold hues and dated colors to the sidelines. Our designers report that earthy greens, soft neutrals, and muted tones are replacing the once-popular brights and heavy hues.
Furthermore, modern homes often feature open-concept layouts. Colors that may look fine in isolation struggle to harmonize in shared spaces. Chicago homeowners, for example, increasingly value cohesive, seamless designs across their living areas.
Tips for Picking the Perfect Paint Colors
Choosing the right color for your home takes careful thought and experimentation. Here are some expert tips to help you make informed decisions.
Test Colors in the Space
Don’t depend entirely on paint swatches. Create large samples (around 24×26 inches) to see how a color appears in your space with varying lighting. Compare it with your furniture and flooring to make sure it complements your decor.
Consider the Room’s Purpose
Each room in your home has its own purpose, and the colors you choose can help create the right atmosphere. For example, calming shades like blue and green are ideal for bedrooms, while soft neutrals are a great choice for shared spaces such as living rooms.
Create a Cohesive Color Story
Keep your home’s tone and color saturation consistent to ensure smooth transitions between spaces. Using complementary colors across different rooms creates a sense of harmony and connection.
Pay Attention to Finishes
The finish is just as important as the color. Matte finishes provide a sleek, modern appearance for walls, while satin or semi-gloss options work well for trims and moldings.
Chicago-Specific Design Considerations
Living in a city like Chicago introduces unique considerations for homeowners. The city’s fluctuating weather and limited sunlight during certain seasons mean residents should prioritize colors that maximize light and warmth.
Warm neutrals and soft, reflective finishes can brighten up interiors and counteract Chicago’s often gray winters. Additionally, selecting tones that work well with outdoor views, like greenery or brick architecture, can make your space feel more connected to its environment.
Elevate Your Home with Areté Renovators
Avoiding these outdated paint colors is just the beginning of transforming your home into a modern, refreshing oasis. At Areté, our experienced Chicago-based team specializes in high-end interior renovations, including tailored living room transformations and full-service home remodeling.
From personalized renovation plans to sustainable, high-quality solutions, we’re here to bring your vision to life. We also offer a design consultation to help you choose the perfect colors for your space. Contact us today at 773-683-3033 to create a space that reflects your style and maximizes your home’s potential.