Each year, interior design and fashion trends are influenced by the colour of the year, which is chosen to reflect global moods and trends.
The dominant shade for 2025 is Future Dusk, a calming yet mysterious shade that strikes a seamless balance between blue and purple, perfect for breathing life into your home. This stunning tone can be used in larger spaces like a feature wall or in smaller accents throughout your home. Its deep, moody tones capture the essence of dusk, a time of reflection and transformation.

One of the reasons Future Dusk stands out as a defining shade for 2025 is its versatility. It has the unique ability to be both grounding and ethereal, offering a base for serene environments, crucial to Lowveld homes, while also hinting at futurism. This means that whether you’re looking to craft a peaceful retreat or a cutting-edge, modern interior, Future Dusk’s rich tones provide the ideal backdrop for a wide range of design styles.
If a dramatic makeover feels a bit too bold for your taste, consider incorporating it in subtle ways. Think cushions, throws or even plant pots to add a pop of colour without overwhelming your space. Alternatively, blend it with softer hues like blush, beige or sandy tones to keep things fresh and balanced.
What is an accent wall and why should you have one?
An accent wall is a single wall in a room that’s painted or designed differently from the others. It serves as a focal point, adding dimension and interest to the space without overwhelming it. Whether you want to introduce a new colour, texture or pattern, an accent wall is a fantastic way to refresh your interior without a full remodel.
Having an accent wall creates visual interest and helps to define different zones in open-plan spaces, which is especially useful in homes with large living areas or multifunctional rooms. It’s also a cost-effective way to make a big impact, as you’ll only need to paint or wallpaper one wall rather than an entire room.
Choosing the right colour for your accent wall
In the Lowveld, it’s important to select colours that suit both your style and the environment. Bright, reflective shades might feel overwhelming in a hot climate, so consider muted tones that harmonise with the natural surroundings. Here are a few colour options that pair well with Future Dusk for an accent wall:
Earthy greens: These shades complement the lush foliage of the Lowveld and create a sense of calm. Olive or sage green is perfect for bedrooms or living rooms, especially when paired with natural textures like wood or rattan.
Terracotta or warm neutrals: Muted clay tones reflect the natural landscape and work beautifully in open spaces. They create a cosy, inviting feel without being too bold.
Cool blues: For a refreshing contrast, try a soft blue or turquoise. These colours evoke feelings of coolness and relaxation, making them ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms.
Accent walls don’t have to be limited to paint – consider textured wallpapers, wooden panels or even a gallery of framed artwork to bring added personality to your home.
Holiday DIY projects don’t need to be overwhelming or expensive. Whether you’re creating a bold accent wall, refreshing your patio or updating your garden, small changes can make a big impact. By introducing trending colours and thoughtful touches, your home will be ready to welcome the festive season with style and creativity.
DIY patio and garden makeover ideas
Lowvelders love nothing more than entertaining, especially when it comes to being outside. This means the patio and garden are just as important as the inside of your home. A few simple DIY projects can transform your outdoor area into a festive, welcoming space for holiday gatherings, and what better time than the end-of-the-year holidays.
Fairy lights & lanterns
Create a cosy evening atmosphere by hanging solar-powered string lights across your patio or in the trees. You can also place lanterns with LED candles along pathways or as a table centrepiece. These lighting ideas are easy to install and immediately add warmth and charm to your outdoor space.
Planters & vertical gardens
Upcycle old containers into chic planters. Metal tins, wooden crates or ceramic pots can be painted in holiday colours or neutral shades that match your outdoor decor. Consider creating a vertical garden along a fence or wall – this is a great space saver and adds greenery to small patios.
Jazz up your patio furniture
If your outdoor furniture is looking a bit tired, give it a refresh with a coat of weather-resistant paint. Choose colours that complement your garden or echo the accent wall indoors. Add a scattering of outdoor cushions in festive patterns or in this year’s trending colours to tie everything together.
Water-wise garden decor
With water conservation top of mind, use water-wise plants like succulents or indigenous grasses to decorate your patio and garden. These low-maintenance plants not only look great but are also environmentally friendly.
Repurposing old furniture is a creative, sustainable way to breathe new life into your home, and is an excellent year-end project. An old chest of drawers can make an ideal kitchen island, combining storage and workspace in one stylish piece. Whether you’re looking to save money or add a unique touch to your kitchen, this project is achievable with a little elbow grease and imagination.
What to do:
Selecting the chest of drawers
Choose a sturdy chest of drawers that fits your kitchen space. Measure the area to ensure it won’t overcrowd the room. Opt for a piece with deep drawers for maximum storage. Avoid furniture with extensive structural damage unless you’re confident in your carpentry skills!
Preparation
Start by removing all the drawers and giving the chest a thorough clean. Sand the surfaces to remove old paint or varnish and create a smooth base for your finish. Tighten loose joints, replace damaged handles and repair any structural issues. If the chest is wobbly, reinforce it with wooden braces or brackets.
Customise
Attach heavy-duty castor wheels to the base for mobility. Locking castors are ideal to keep the island stable when in use. Swap outdated drawer pulls with modern ones or quirky vintage finds to suit your style. Choose a colour or finish that complements your kitchen decor. A bright paint colour can make the piece a focal point, while a wood stain preserves its natural charm.
Make it functional
The top of the chest will serve as your countertop, so choose a material that is both durable and easy to clean. There are three options:
• Wood: Sand and seal the existing surface for a rustic look, or add a butcher block for a professional touch.
• Tile: Consider a tiled top for a pop of colour and easy maintenance. Use adhesive tiles for a simple DIY approach.
• Marble or granite: If you want a luxurious finish, hire a professional to cut a stone slab to fit the dimensions.
Additional features
• Towel rack: Mount a towel bar or hooks on one side for added functionality.
• Open shelves: Remove one or two drawers to create open shelving for cookbooks or baskets.
• Hanging space: Attach S-hooks or a magnetic strip on the side for hanging utensils or knives.
Assembly
Reassemble the drawers, ensuring they slide smoothly (rub a candle along the edges if they stick). Attach your chosen top securely and check that the casters are functioning properly. Give everything a final wipe-down and let any paint or finish cure before using.