As the most populous generation in the world right now, Gen Z certainly has influence, even though many are still young. The self-expression and creativity of this young group generation is clear to see across all facets of life, but especially on the internet in places like TikTok and Twitter. Their fashion and artistic stylings are eye-catching, and their interior design trends tend to be no different. While the home design of those under 26 is still blooming as more and more youngsters get homes and apartments, here are some of our favorite notable Gen Z design trends.

It’s About the Aesthetic

Aesthetic is a great catch-all word that can be used to describe Gen Z’s style. They lean towards things that create spaces with moods that communicate a feeling or a motif. Gen Zer’s create rooms with “vibes” that induce a certain feeling when you enter them. Gone are the days of all white everything: Gen Z wants to make you feel something, and they want it to be immediate.

Unexpected lighting is a popular home decor trend of Gen Z. Lighting serves as an accessory to the room, not to blend into the back but to stand out. It’s hard to find a TikTok influencer without a set of LED lights spanning the length of their room, coloring their space in a multicolored fantasy. Lighting that can be used for photography, like ring lights or lighting that creates a pattern, is incredibly popular with Gen Z. They want their spaces to be multifunctional, and to look great on camera.

Like their older generational siblings, plants are a huge part of Gen Z design. Although unlike their millennial predecessor, the plants Gen Z showcase tend to be more fake. Faux vines cascade down Gen Z walls, along with gorgeous silk plants tucked high away on shelving. It’s a great way to add greenery to a space without taking on the task of keeping a plant alive. Also like millennials, Gen Z is called towards natural pieces. Rattan, macrame, organic ceramics, and other natural materials are of frequent use in Gen Z design.

Another natural motif that Gen Z loves are mushrooms. A favorite of the cottagecore and fairy garden lovers, mushrooms have begun popping up all over products, clothing, art, and design. The younger generation pulls inspiration from past generations with these mycelium multitaskers, and uses them to add a sense of whimsy to their spaces.

Earth isn’t the only inspiration when it comes to aesthetics for Gen Z. Astrological details, like stars, moons, and the sun are favorites of the generation. Upgrading from glow in the dark ceiling stickers, these youngsters are creating gorgeous celestial spaces.

The Basics

In addition to a love of aesthetics, another trend, called “Avant Basic,” is showing up in Gen Z design, especially for the older of the generation. Avant Basic combines the innovation of avant fashion with the availability of “basic” design. It works to create spaces that are fun, whimsical, and very livable.

Avant Basic thrives with pastel colors, especially when used as pops of color in white spaces. The style utilizes psychedelic patterns, along with checkered or floral looks. It recalls the soft greens, eye-dazzling decoration, and love of roundness of the seventies. Much of the furniture of Avant Basic Gen Z design focuses on postmodern lines. Squiggly mirrors and chunky modern furniture grace these spaces, giving you plenty to look at and a wonderful sense of flow to the room.

All in all, Gen Z style leans towards what many young generations lean towards: a sense of creativity born out of the desire to not be boxed in. They want to define themselves, and let their sense of selves show up in their spaces. It’s why DIY artwork, or artwork by local artists and friends, are popular design aspects of Gen Z.

Gen Z design styles also have a feature that mimics Millennial style, a need for removal. Many of their designs are temporary, held together by removable strips and washi tape. Whether it be at a dorm or in one of their first apartments, Gen Z design is being influenced by their transience. Most do not own homes, and haven’t settled down into a space, or even a style. Their trends are malleable and individual, just like them.

While it is never an easy or complete job keeping up with what the “kids are into these days,” it’s important to keep an eye out for what Gen Z is bringing to the table. This young generation is a powerhouse of creativity, innovation, technological competence, and connectedness. Their design trends will be influencing larger design trends for years to come.