Top 14+ Interior Design Trends That Stress the Brain (Even If They Look Great)

All-White Interiors

All-white rooms, from furniture to walls, have become Instagram darlings. They photograph beautifully, but psychologists such as Dr.

Sally Augustin warn that these sterile environments can lead to feelings of unease and even anxiety. Research from the University of Texas found that white, especially when used in excess, can feel cold and unfriendly, leading to a decrease in creativity and comfort.

The brain craves visual stimulation and warmth, something missing in all-white spaces. People may not notice this stress at first, but over time, the lack of color variety can make a home feel less like a sanctuary.

With design magazines still pushing this trend in 2025, many people are unknowingly creating spaces that are harder to relax in.

Maximalist Decor

Maximalism is the art of “more is more”—bold patterns, vibrant colors, and lots of accessories. While this look is undeniably striking, neuroscientific studies show it can be mentally exhausting.

According to a 2023 report from the Royal Society for Public Health, visual clutter increases cognitive load, making it harder to focus and process information. The brain has to work overtime to filter unnecessary details, leaving us feeling mentally drained.

Maximalist designs are especially stressful for those with ADHD or anxiety disorders, as noted in research published in the journal “Frontiers in Psychology.” Even for those who love bold style, too much stimulation can secretly sap your energy over time.

Statement Lighting Fixtures

Oversized chandeliers and dramatic pendant lights have become the centerpieces of many modern homes. While they make for stunning conversation starters, the constant glare or harsh shadows produced by these lights can lead to eye strain and headaches.

The American Lighting Association notes that poor lighting design—especially with excessive brightness or direct overhead bulbs—can disrupt circadian rhythms and even sleep patterns. A 2024 study from Stanford University found that people exposed to uneven lighting reported higher levels of fatigue and irritability.

Many designers are calling for more layered lighting and dimmable options to help the brain relax, but the trend for statement lighting is still going strong.

Industrial Chic Elements

Exposed brick, concrete, and metal pipes: the industrial look is everywhere. But research from the Environmental Psychology Review in 2023 suggests that harsh materials and cold surfaces can trigger stress responses.

The brain associates these elements with unfinished spaces or even danger, which is why people often feel unsettled in ultra-industrial settings. The acoustics of these materials also amplify noise, increasing stress hormones.

While the aesthetic is edgy and popular on social media, it can be mentally taxing in everyday life, especially for those who crave comfort and warmth in their homes.

Bold Geometric Patterns

Geometric wallpapers and tile designs are visually striking and can add personality to a room. However, neuroscientists warn that repetitive, bold patterns can confuse the brain’s ability to process space and depth.

A 2023 study from the University of Toronto showed that people exposed to rooms with strong geometric patterns experienced higher heart rates and reported feeling restless. The constant visual movement makes it difficult for the eyes—and therefore the mind—to settle.

While these designs are trending on TikTok and Pinterest, they can turn a relaxing space into a source of subconscious stress.

Open Shelving in Kitchens

Open shelving is a hit among home influencers, offering a chance to display pretty plates and glassware. But open shelves demand constant organization, and visual clutter quickly builds up.

According to a 2025 survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, over 60% of respondents said open shelving made their kitchens feel messier, even when cleaned regularly. The brain processes open shelves as “unfinished tasks,” which can trigger anxiety and make it hard to relax while cooking.

Despite their aesthetic appeal, many homeowners are switching back to closed cabinets for peace of mind.

Excessive Use of Mirrors

Mirrors can make a room look bigger and brighter, but too many of them can actually increase anxiety. Psychologists explain that frequent glimpses of one’s reflection can trigger self-consciousness and even body dysmorphia in some cases.

A 2024 article in “Environmental Health Perspectives” noted that mirrored surfaces can create an uncanny sense of being watched, which the brain registers as a mild threat. This is especially true in bedrooms and bathrooms, where people want privacy and relaxation.

The trend for mirrored furniture and walls looks glamorous but can quietly undermine comfort.

Neon and LED Accent Lighting

Neon and color-changing LED lights are trendy for their futuristic vibe, popping up in bedrooms and lounges. However, the blue light emitted by many LEDs has been shown to disrupt melatonin production, according to the Sleep Foundation’s 2024 report.

This can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, especially for teens and young adults. The flickering and unnatural hues can also strain the eyes and lead to headaches, as reported by the American Optometric Association.

While these lights are fun for parties, they’re not ideal for daily living.

Minimalist Furniture with Sharp Edges

Minimalism often means sleek, sharp-edged furniture with little ornamentation. These pieces look sophisticated, but according to a 2023 study in “Cognitive Research,” sharp angles and hard lines can activate the amygdala—the brain’s fear center.

This subtle sense of danger makes it harder to feel truly comfortable. Parents with small children also report higher anxiety about bumps and bruises, leading to constant vigilance.

While minimalist furniture looks elegant, softer, rounded designs are making a comeback for a reason.

Dark, Moody Color Palettes

Deep blues, greens, and blacks are trending in designer magazines for their dramatic flair. However, color psychologists warn that prolonged exposure to dark shades can dampen mood and reduce energy.

A 2024 meta-analysis in “Color Research & Application” found that people working or resting in dark rooms reported more fatigue and sadness than those in lighter spaces. Dark walls can also make small rooms feel claustrophobic, further increasing stress.

While moody rooms look chic in photos, they may not be ideal for mental well-being.

Gallery Walls with Too Many Photos

Gallery walls packed with art and photos are meant to be personal and inviting. But research from the University of Michigan in 2025 discovered that too many visual stimuli on a single wall can overwhelm the brain, leading to what psychologists call “choice fatigue.” Instead of drawing attention to favorite memories, overstuffed gallery walls make it hard for the mind to focus or relax.

This can quietly add to daily stress, especially in small apartments or bedrooms where wall space is limited.

Faux Plants Overload

Faux greenery surged in popularity as a low-maintenance way to add life to a room. But a 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that fake plants do not provide the same stress-reducing benefits as real ones.

In fact, too many artificial plants can create a sense of artificiality, reminding the brain that something is “off” in the environment. Real plants help purify air and lower anxiety, as proven in dozens of clinical studies, but faux plants simply gather dust and clutter.

Many people are now reconsidering this once-popular trend.

Mixed Metal Finishes

Mixing brass, chrome, and black metal finishes is a hot trend in kitchen and bath design. However, a 2025 study from the International Journal of Interior Design found that too many competing metallic finishes can create visual discord, increasing cognitive load and stress.

The brain prefers patterns and harmony, and when finishes clash, it creates subtle discomfort. While mixing metals can look sophisticated in magazines, many homeowners report feeling unsettled or distracted in real life.

Designers are slowly returning to more unified looks as a result.