Six expert-approved festive home décor trends to follow this Diwali 2025

As the festive season arrives, homes across India come alive in a rhythm that feels both traditional and contemporary. This is the time when design becomes emotional, and every object carries intention. From refreshing the entrance to curating the perfect fragrance, these are the six décor movements that truly define how festive season is a season of refreshment.

1. Muted Walls

Walls are becoming the canvas for personal expression this festive season. Homeowners are moving beyond plain neutrals and experimenting with colour that brings mood and personality into their spaces. Deep clays, olive greens, muted saffron, and chalky blues are among the tones gaining attention for 2025. These colours pair beautifully with natural light and lend warmth without feeling heavy. Textured finishes such as lime wash, micro cement, and matte stone paints are replacing flat coats, giving walls a handcrafted look that feels layered and sophisticated. Instead of accent walls in bright shades, entire rooms are being wrapped in a single tone to create a more immersive atmosphere. 

2. Designer Nooks and Corners

Every festive season, homes in India turn into social spaces for days. Guests drift from living rooms to verandas, and every unused corner begins to matter. Home owners style these nooks into small conversation zones, a cluster of cane chairs by the window, a marble-topped side table with a sculptural lamp, or a floor rug paired with low cushions and a woven stool. These micro-lounges lend the perfect space to gatherings and make even compact homes feel well thought and alive. A well-curated corner can transform a hallway, balcony, or even a passageway.

3. Rugs Of Choice 

Rugs have long been seen as scene-setters in festive homes. A hand-knotted rug placed beneath the main seating area instantly guards the room and adds dimension. Designers note a growing fascination with sculptural and irregular rug shapes that break the monotony of straight lines. Maximalist colour palettes, tactile weaves, and clashing borders create visual accentuation, transforming living rooms and dining areas into statement spaces. Homeowners are investing in pieces that echo the mood of the season, rich gradients, subtle metallic threads, or natural wools also see a rise. A thoughtfully curated rug connects the entire space, creating a sense of solace whether for morning prayers or evening gatherings. “We are seeing a clear shift toward richer, more expressive palettes during the festive season. Clients are drawn to rugs that can hold the feeling of celebration without being ornamental: pieces in warm terracotta, soft green, and deep jade are especially popular this year. There’s also growing interest in different textures and gradient finishes that complement light beautifully in Indian homes," says Sahil Jain, Co-Founder, Studio Abrash.

4. Scent as a Decor

The modern idea of décor is expanding to include how a space feels, smells, and sounds. Reed diffusers in brass or ceramic holders are popular this season, with fragrances like vetiver, rose, and patchouli giving a calm, festive scent. Incense sticks in handmade clay or metal stands are being placed near entryways and corners, adding a traditional touch while keeping the air lightly perfumed. Wavy candles in twisted shapes are being paired with jasmine, vanilla, or amber scents. They sit beautifully in glass, brass, or stone candle holders, which double as decor pieces. Tall candle stands in matte gold or carved wood are trending for living areas, while smaller votive holders in tinted glass work well on coffee tables and consoles.

5. Floor Length Curtains

This festive season, Indian homes are leaning toward curtains that balance the entire state of the room. Warm neutral tones like beige, sand, and taupe are being paired with festive hues such as deep maroon, emerald, and mustard. Matte textures are preferred over shiny ones, giving the room a softer look. Many are going for long, floor-length curtains that fall neatly or are lightly draped. Simple stitched finishes and small borders or trims replace heavy embroidery, making the space feel festive but not overdone. Curtain rods in brushed brass or olive tones with clean, straight lines are trending, drawing in some attention to detail.

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6. Renovated Entrance

The Indian entrance has become an expression of hospitality. Designers and homeowners alike are elevating foyers with floral installations, statement urns, and handcrafted torans that blend modern aesthetics with tradition. Lighting at the doorway has also evolved, with terracotta diyas, brass lamps, and soft lanterns casting a warm glow long before guests step inside. The entrance is no longer just a threshold; it is a mood in itself, setting the tone for the entire celebration.

Text by Sahil Jain

Sahil Jain is the Co-Founder of Studio Abrash who has a keen design sensibility and extensive knowledge of rug making.

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