Pub design trends to watch out for in 2025
With 2025 on the horizon, now is the time to start planning your pub’s design glow-up for spring. January and February are prime months to refresh your space and branding, ensuring you're ahead of the crowd when the busy season hits. Staying on top of bold new trends and updating your look isn’t just about aesthetics it’s about maximising profits and creating an irresistible experience for your customers. In this article we’ll explore some of the big changes in pub design for 2025 and some trends set to continue.
A great place to start is the exterior of your pub, the first thing your customers and passers-by notice. It needs to be striking and memorable. While black has been a go-to choice for many pubs in recent years, now is the time to break away from the pack and make your venue truly stand out. Think custom flags, coloured lighting, vibrant spring blooms, or and this is my personal favourite - commissioning a local street artist to transform your exterior with a bold, selfie-worthy mural. It’s all about creating a wow factor that draws people in before they even step through the door.
Stepping inside, the bold colours continue, balanced with a warmer, organic vibe, and yes, hanging plants are still going strong. Dulux has named Pure Joy Yellow as its colour for 2025, and I couldn’t agree more. The era of greys and dark tones is fading, making way for organic shades paired with striking artwork. Textures are making a big comeback, with velvet sofas in standout oranges, pinks, and yellows set against dark wood floors and terracotta tiles. Speaking of tiles, feature tiles are stealing the spotlight through patterned designs for back bars, stepping away from the overdone London Underground-style white rectangles, and bringing fresh personality into the space. Adding to the atmosphere, mood enhancing bar uplighting in soft, warm tones or bold statement colours can create a dynamic, inviting feel, drawing customers into a space that’s as stylish as it is welcoming.
Sustainability will continue to play a pivotal role in pub design by blending style with eco-consciousness. Incorporating reclaimed materials, like upcycled wood and vintage furniture, adds character while reducing waste. Energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and natural elements like living walls or hanging plants create a warm, inviting atmosphere with a lower environmental impact. Eco-friendly branding such as biodegradable menus and locally sourced décor can enhance the story your pub tells, appealing to customers who value sustainability. By designing with the planet in mind, you not only cut costs but also set your pub apart as a forward thinking, responsible business.
Making your pub ‘Instagrammable’ will be a game-changer as we head into 2025, especially with predictions of a tougher trading year. Leveraging your space so customers naturally promote your business is key. Think interactive desserts with a touch of theatre, like dry ice effects, or house made birthday cakes adorned with sparklers to elevate the experience. Eye-catching feature walls with clever neon slogans, or quirky glassware, are simple additions that encourage snaps and shares. Every drink and plate of food should be designed with aesthetics in mind because in today’s world, a camera worthy moment can be just as valuable as great service.
In conclusion, let’s talk about my favourite topic: branding. 2025 will see a resurgence of themes in pubs whether it’s a cohesive overall concept or themed areas for larger venues. Strong branding will tie everything together, from signage and artwork to menus and staff uniforms. Consistency is key not just for aesthetics but for seamless implementation across platforms, from the pub itself to social media. While minimalism has dominated recent years, 2025 introduces a bold twist: a fusion of minimalism and maximalism. Think oversized, striking typefaces paired with key on-brand messaging, all brought to life with vibrant, bold colours. The importance of exceptional design can’t be overstated, and the rise of in-house creative directors, even in smaller pubs, is set to continue, ensuring every detail stays consistent and impactful. Great branding is no longer optional it’s essential for standing out and thriving in the year ahead.
All the best,
Rob
LiftBrandworks specialises in elevating Pubs and Hospitality brands with great design and fluent copy. Subscriptions start at ￡100 pw, DM to find out more.