Image left: Living Etc. Image right: Farrow & Ball

Interior design in 2025 is defined by an exciting duality of styles: the bold, urban City Glow aesthetic and the warm, nature-inspired Cottage Flow movement. While one celebrates neon, surrealism, and edgy modernity, the other embraces rustic charm, floral patterns, and cosy textures. Together, they reflect a wider cultural desire for balance between fast-paced city living and grounding countryside serenity.

As an interior design company, we see this trend as an opportunity to help clients create spaces that are both expressive and restorative - perfectly tuned to their lifestyle.

What is City Glow?

City Glow interiors channel the vibrancy of urban life. Think:

- Neon accents and LED lighting that transform spaces into immersive experiences

- Graffiti-inspired artwork and bold murals for an edgy, contemporary statement

- Sleek modern furniture with metallic finishes, glass, and reflective surfaces

- Playful surrealism - unexpected shapes, colour-blocked rooms, and futuristic touches

Design takeaway: City Glow is all about impact and energy. It’s ideal for apartments, creative studios, or social spaces that want to radiate personality.

What is Cottage Flow?

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Cottage Flow interiors offer comfort and grounding through organic design. Hallmarks include:

- Rustic natural textures like reclaimed wood, stone, and clay

- Floral motifs and heritage prints softening modern lines

- Mossy greens, warm terracotta, and vintage textiles for a homely vibe

- Layered cosiness—plush armchairs, soft throws, and handcrafted objects

Design takeaway: Cottage Flow is about slowing down. It’s perfect for townhouses, family homes, or anyone craving the warmth of a countryside retreat in the city.

Why This Contrast Works

This year’s biggest interior design trend lies not in choosing between the two styles, but in blending them. For example:

- Pair a neon statement lamp with a vintage wooden console

- Place graffiti-style art above a floral-patterned sofa

- Use modern LED strips to highlight a rustic brick wall

The magic happens in the tension: City Glow brings excitement, while Cottage Flow grounds the space.

How to Bring City Glow and Cottage Flow Into Your Home

1. Start with your lifestyle: Do you thrive in bold, stimulating spaces or relax best in calm, nature-inspired settings?

2. Layer selectively: Introduce one contrasting piece at a time- like a graffiti mural in a rustic kitchen, or a floral rug in a neon-lit lounge.

3. Play with lighting: Combine modern LED or neon with warm, ambient lamps.

4. Mix materials: Contrast glossy surfaces with tactile finishes- glass with linen, or steel with rattan.

Final Word

The rise of City Glow vs. Cottage Flow signals a new era in London interior design trends- one that values contrast, balance, and individuality. Whether you lean toward bold urban energy or countryside calm, the interplay between these styles offers endless possibilities.

We specialise in helping clients curate interiors that reflect their unique story- whether that means a glowing, modern loft, a rustic-inspired townhouse, or a fusion of both.

✨ Ready to bring this trend into your space? Get in touch to start designing your City Glow–meets–Cottage Flow home today.