Another year, another reason to refresh your space. If you’re like me and keep an eye on the intersection of African design and modern interiors, 2025 has plenty to get excited about. I’ve rounded up the African interior design trends that have been stealing the spotlight so far this year—with a few favorites I can’t stop obsessing over.
African Interior Design Trends Making Waves in 2025
1. Scenic Nature-Inspired Pillows
Nature-lovers, rejoice. This year, our love for the outdoors is making its way into African interior design trends. And it’s doing it in the softest, most huggable form: pillows.
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Designers are going wild with covers that feature serene landscapes like rolling hills, desert dunes, and coastal scenes. You’ll also spot subtle nods to sunrises, whimsical greenery, and sand textures. It’s a grounded, peaceful trend—one that works beautifully with African interiors that already celebrate a connection to nature.
Top Pick: Guttata Throw Pillow
SARZA, $105 USD
2. Painted Ceramics Revival
The tradition of painted ceramics in African design goes way back. Think of the hand-painted zellige tiles in Morocco or the glazed pottery styles from ancient Egypt. These art forms have evolved, but the roots still shine through.
In 2025, contemporary designers are playing with this ancient craft, giving it modern forms while preserving regional techniques. You’ll see everything from painted vases with sun-washed hues to ceramic tableware that feels like art. Beyond being beautiful, these pieces echo centuries of North African craftsmanship. Perfect for thoughtful interiors.
Top Pick: Blue Branches Tray
ANUT Cairo, $198 USD
3. The Nongo Basket Comeback
If you love heritage pieces with a story, then Nongo baskets might be your top choice among our African interior design trends.
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Handwoven by the BaTonga people of Zimbabwe, these gourd-shaped baskets are crafted using dried palm leaves, wild grasses, and vines. The result? A tactile, earthy piece that’s both sculptural and practical. Some come in natural tones, while others show off complex patterns and tight weaves that speak to incredible skill passed through generations.
They’ve made their way into 2025 interiors as statement pieces—displayed on walls, shelves, or as centerpieces.
Top Pick: Nongo Basket 07
Khayni, $270 USD
4. Checkers, Reimagined
There’s something undeniably magnetic about a checkered pattern. Maybe it’s the visual interest it brings, or maybe it’s how it breaks up a space without overwhelming it.
In African-inspired design, we’ve seen checkers take on new life in 2025. Designers are weaving them into pillows, layering them into baskets, and even using them in abstract art. Think bold contrasts, earthy tones, and lots of unexpected interpretations. A little goes a long way.
Top Pick: Hadiza Storage Basket
Expedition Subsahara, $119 USD
5. Shields as Art
Traditionally used for protection during hunts or ceremonies, African shields are now taking their place as powerful wall decor.
Carved wood forms the base, sometimes painted with stark geometric designs, other times adorned with colorful beadwork. The craftsmanship is always impressive. For interiors, they bring a bold silhouette, a sense of history, and a texture that can instantly ground a modern room.
I love using them in gallery walls or as a standalone piece in a hallway. They make a quiet statement that lingers.
Top Pick: Black Wall Scupture – Beaded Shield
54kibo, $298 USD
6. Cube Pouffes Are In
One of my personal favorites this year. There’s something about cube pouffes that feels incredibly modern without trying too hard.
I’ve seen them in butter-soft leathers, richly textured bouclé, and earth-toned fabrics. They’re the kind of piece that works anywhere—as a footrest, a decor display, or extra seating when friends drop by.
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They’re also perfect for layering. Stack your favorite books on one, place a tray for drinks on another. The shape gives structure, while the material brings in the visual interest.
Top Pick: Leather Beaded Pouf with floral motifs
The Wanderlane, $750 USD
7. Statement Lighting Wins
Lighting in 2025 isn’t just functional. It’s a showstopper.
African creative studios have truly raised the bar. Shapes range from sleek and minimalist to bold and sculptural.
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They hang low over dining tables or glow warmly in living rooms, instantly drawing the eye. More than just fixtures, these lights are art in their own right. If you’re rethinking your lighting this year, make it count with a piece that reflects African design ingenuity.
Top Pick: Moja Wave Suspension Pendant in Polished Brass
Dounia Home, $650
I hope you enjoyed our top African interior design trends.
In 2025, African interior design trends continue to blend cultural roots with modern style in thoughtful, striking ways. From handwoven traditions to sculptural lighting, every element adds meaning and presence to a space. Which one is calling your name?
If you liked this article, then you’ll love to learn about these 9 Designers who are shaping modern African-inpired interiors.
