2025 Trends: How Natural Materials Are Taking Over Urban Apartments

The shift toward eco-friendliness and mindful consumption is changing how we design our living spaces. In 2025, natural materials are no longer just a trendy accent but the foundation of urban interiors. Let's explore how this trend is transforming our apartments and why it matters for modern city dwellers.

Why Natural Materials Are a Must-Have

Switching to natural materials in interior design is more than just a fashion statement. Studies show that environments made with natural materials reduce stress levels by 18% and improve sleep quality. In urban life, where contact with nature is limited, natural textures and surfaces help create a psychologically comfortable space.

Which Materials Are Part of the Trend

Unprocessed Wood

Parquet and laminate are giving way to solid wood planks with preserved textures. Popular are countertops made from wood slices and wall panels crafted from untreated timber. When choosing wood species, preference is given to local suppliers — not only eco-friendly but also economically advantageous.

Photo: pinterest.com

Natural Stone

Marble and granite are returning to urban apartments, but not in glossy finishes anymore. Instead, they come with matte surfaces closer to natural textures. Especially relevant are:

• Travertine for wall cladding;

• Slate for bathrooms;

• Sandstone for decorative elements.

Design: TaupeHOME

Clay and Ceramic

Unfired clay is becoming a popular material for wall finishing. Decorative plaster with clay additives not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also helps regulate humidity in the room.

How to Implement This Trend in an Urban Apartment

Basic Level

Start small — replace synthetic textiles with linen and cotton fabrics, add wooden accessories and ceramic tableware. This allows you to assess how natural materials affect the atmosphere of your home.

Intermediate Level

Replace some finishing materials with natural ones:

• Cork flooring in a child’s room;
• Wooden panels for accent walls;
• Stone countertops in the kitchen.

Advanced Level

Full-scale application of natural materials:

• Complete replacement of flooring with solid wood;
• Wall finishing with clay plaster;
• Use of natural stone in the bathroom.

Practical Tips

Care and Maintenance

Natural materials require special care, but it’s simpler than it seems:

• Wood should be wiped with a damp cloth and treated with natural oil once every six months;

• Stone needs periodic impregnation with special compositions;

• Clay surfaces only need vacuuming.

Where to Find These Materials

Local manufacturers and small workshops often offer more interesting options at reasonable prices. Consider:

• Furniture workshops specializing in solid wood;

• Stone processing plants in your region;

• Artisanal ceramic studios.

How Much Does It Cost

Transitioning to natural materials can be gradual. Estimated budget:

• Basic level: 30,000 to 50,000 rubles;

• Intermediate level: 150,000 to 300,000 rubles;

• Advanced level: over 500,000 rubles.

Future Outlook

By 2025, new processing technologies for natural materials are expected to make them more practical for urban use. Already in development:

• Wood with improved water-repellent properties;

• Stone with natural antibacterial protection;

• Clay mixtures with enhanced strength.

The trend of natural materials in urban apartments is more than just a fashion statement — it's a conscious choice for health and eco-friendliness. You can start implementing this trend gradually, moving toward more comprehensive solutions over time. The key is to remember that natural materials are not only beautiful but also create a special atmosphere that helps restore energy after urban stress.

Cover: Interior Design Project by Elmira Galimova