Design Mumbai 2024: Championing India’s design identity as a global creative force

The three-day design event held in the financial capital of India, brought together bold statements, sustainable innovations, and cultural narratives setting the tone for the year ahead with creativity and flair!

Founded by industry veterans Ian Rudge, Michael Dynan, and Piyush Suri, the inaugural Design Mumbai made an indelible debut, elevating the city to a new echelon of design excellence. From 6th to 9th November 2024, the Jio World Garden transformed into the epicentre of innovation, presenting an extraordinary collection of art, furniture, and décor that celebrated both emerging talents and established icons. A bold manifesto for the future of design—with a focus on biophilic aesthetics, heritage craftsmanship, timeless luxury, and unapologetically bold statements, it unveiled the trends set to dominate interiors in 2025. Here’s a closer look at the standout pieces from the event—creations that transcend mere aesthetics, embodying meaningful innovation, sustainable values, and expressive storytelling.

BIOPHILIC DESIGN: NATURE’S PRESENCE INDOORS

The love for nature-inspired interiors continues, with biophilic elements bringing the outdoors in. Expect more pieces emulating organic forms, like Viatov’s Forest Mirror by Edward Shin crafted with materials that mimic the textures and colours of natural environments. Framed with intricately designed metal foliage, the mirror creates a captivating interplay of light and reflection. Its metallic floral detailing introduces a sense of nature indoors, making it an enchanting addition to any space.

HERITAGE HANDCRAFTING WITH A CONTEMPORARY TWIST

As appreciation for handmade goods grows, traditional crafts are finding renewed life in modern designs. Artisanal techniques are blending with contemporary aesthetics, exemplified by The Wicker Story’s woven sculptures, which add cultural depth and individuality to every piece. This trend celebrates imperfection and local craftsmanship, with handwoven sculptures featuring flowing forms and gradient colours that transform traditional wickerwork into contemporary art.

SCULPTURAL WALL INSTALLATIONS

Wall art is evolving beyond the traditional frame, with 3D installations turning walls into focal points. Sculptural pieces like the Majestic Wall Sculpture by Orikrit introduce dimension, texture, and drama to interiors. Crafted from metal, its fan-like arrangement features a central orb, adding depth and elegance through its structured beauty.

EARTH TONES AND SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES

The movement towards sustainability is reflected in the rise of natural, earthy tones and eco-friendly materials. Textiles like handwoven pieces, rendered in grounding hues, connect interiors to the natural world while showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship. These sustainable pieces add a thoughtful, tactile touch to both contemporary and rustic interiors.

THE RISE OF TIMELESS LUXURY

Luxury in 2025 goes beyond aesthetics to embrace enduring quality. The Hästens Checkered Bed epitomises this trend, with its iconic design and focus on comfort. Timeless pieces prioritising craftsmanship over fleeting trends are making a comeback, appealing to those who value elegance that stands the test of time. The bed’s classic blue-and-white check pattern symbolises enduring design, combining visual appeal with unparalleled comfort.

BOLD, ABSTRACT PATTERNS

Bold patterns are energising modern interiors, with abstract designs like Morii Design’s textile artworks injecting personality into spaces. Featuring fluid, interconnected shapes, these creations become statement pieces, enhancing interiors with colour and vibrancy—ideal for spaces that crave a dynamic edge.

STATEMENT-MAKING FURNITURE

Furniture is evolving from functional utility to sculptural art. The Majestic Dining Table by Esvee Atelier exemplifies this trend, with architectural curves that seamlessly blend form and purpose. Its arched legs and luxurious dark wood finish command attention, creating a striking centrepiece that balances elegance with contemporary design.

NOSTALGIC TOUCHES IN DESIGN

Designers are reimagining nostalgic items with modern sophistication. Vivaarta’s lights bring whimsy to interiors, blending nostalgia with a sleek aesthetic. Inspired by rolling pins, these lights feature smooth, elongated shapes in natural wood tones, casting a warm, inviting glow. Perfect for kitchens or dining areas, they add a charming touch of organic beauty.

VIVID COLOUR ACCENTS IN CONTEMPORARY SPACES

Bold colour accents are enlivening minimalist spaces, with shades like electric blue adding impact. The Femme Rug by Fazo Project captures this trend with its striking blue hue that punctuates interiors. Combining femininity with strength, its deep blue tones and metallic accents exude an industrial edge softened by playful curves.

WHIMSICAL LIGHTING WITH SOFT AMBIENCE

Lighting has become a canvas for creativity, introducing playfulness and ethereal qualities into interiors. Bird in a Hoop by Emanate Lighting exemplifies this trend, blending whimsical design with functionality. This poetic fixture casts soft shadows and evokes the illusion of flight, adding a dreamy ambience to any space.

Also read here, Rahul Mishra’s Couture Spring 2025 mirrors our cities through skyscraper-inspired designs and poses an important question: what happens when built structures are no longer sustainable or habitable?