The way a home feels is everything. And at the heart of that feeling is interior design – how we transform the four walls of a property into a sanctuary that feels uniquely us.
We’re passionate about helping people create these kinds of spaces. So, to better understand the joys and challenges of this journey, we surveyed 2,000 people across the UK about everything from their style confidence to their redecorating plans.
In this article, we’re going to look at the key findings, providing a snapshot of how Brits approach interior décor.
To read our Sofological Study in full, complete with our expert tips to transform your own space, download the report here. (Opens in a new window)
We’re Ready to Refresh Our Interiors
It’s a feeling many of us know well: you look around a room and realise it simply doesn’t feel like you anymore.
Our latest study shows this is a feeling shared across the country, with an overwhelming appetite for change. A huge 72% of Brits have changes they’d like to make to their homes, with the most common reason being that their space feels outdated or tired (40%).
This creates what we call an “aspiration gap” — the space between the home we have and the home we want. While we’re full of ideas, practical barriers often get in the way, from the cost of materials and labour (51%) and furniture (40%) to the time needed to complete the work (33%).
Our experts believe this desire for change is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating a home that reflects how we live today. Our homes should evolve with us, and when a room starts to feel “tired”, it can be a sign that it no longer meets our needs or reflects who we are.
A refresh, then, isn’t simply about redecorating. It’s about reclaiming your space and making it work for you again.
It’s All About the Living Room
When it comes to the rooms we care about most, there’s a clear favourite. More than half of Brits (52%) are most particular about their living room, making it the undisputed heart of the home.
We’ve seen the role of the living room evolve in recent years, shifting from a more formal space into a relaxed, social hub for entertaining, connecting and unwinding.
That makes its centrepiece - the sofa - more important than ever. And it’s a decision we don’t take lightly. Our research found that 39% of Brits take their time when choosing a sofa, while a further 33% are prepared to spend a long time searching for the right one.
After all, it’s a piece of furniture that has to work hard for us, from lazy evenings and weekend lounging to hosting friends and family. Getting the choice right matters.
Finding Our Interior Style
While we may be full of ideas, 21% of Brits say a lack of confidence in their interior design choices is a major barrier to making changes. This can create what we call a “cohesion conundrum”: having all the right pieces but struggling to make them work together harmoniously.
Our research found that 32% of Brits want to learn how to confidently mix and match different styles and textures, while 26% want to create a more unified aesthetic throughout their home.
And sometimes, achieving a cohesive look isn’t just about personal confidence. More than 1 in 5 (22%) of 25–34-year-olds say disagreements with their partner about interior design can get in the way of creating the look they want.
Our experts believe the secret isn’t about committing to a single style forever. Our tastes naturally evolve. Instead, it’s about identifying the colours, textures and moods you love most and using them as your creative anchor.
So, Where Do We Turn for Inspiration?
When it comes to finding interior inspiration, nothing quite beats seeing things in real life. Visiting and browsing physical stores is the most popular source of inspiration (29%), highlighting the importance of being able to see, touch and experience furniture in person.
That doesn’t mean digital inspiration has lost its influence. Social media remains a major source of ideas, particularly among younger generations, with 65% of 18–24-year-olds turning to Instagram for interior inspiration.
This digital influence is also shaping the styles we love. While the timeless appeal of Scandi style remains the nation’s favourite (22%), the emerging trend of Midimalism (20%) is close behind. Combining the calm of minimalism with the personality of maximalism, it offers a liveable approach to interiors that feels stylish without becoming sterile.
Ultimately, though, authenticity wins. A huge 69% of Brits want their homes to feel more like “me” than a collection of trends.
As our experts always say, trends should be a starting point, not a rulebook. Take the elements you love, then make them your own.
Turning Inspiration Into Reality
The data speaks for itself: we’re a nation of interior lovers, eager to create homes that are comfortable, functional and, above all, personal.
But bridging the gap between inspiration and confidence requires the right tools and guidance.
Our full Sofological Studies report is designed to help. Packed with expert insight, analysis and actionable advice, it can help you turn your ideas into a home that truly feels like yours.
Download your free copy of the report now. (Opens in a new window.)
For more interior design inspiration and practical tips, explore the Sofological blog or browse our collections of made-to-order sofas.
