How’s the decor, design, and lifestyle industry faring in 2025? A recent survey from over 1,400 professionals in the Maison&Objet community sheds light on the past six months and offers a glimpse into the future.
The start of 2025 hasn’t been easy. Inflation in France at the end of 2024 affected people’s buying power, and new U.S. tariffs altered trade. While most regions faced hurdles, the Middle East and Southeast Asia thrived, thanks to booming real estate and tourism. Despite these challenges, the overall focus in the industry has been on looking ahead.
Interestingly, reports show that around 70% of industry professionals experienced stable or growing business from April to September 2025. The percentage of those maintaining sales rose to 40%. Retailers reported the most significant stability, with 45% of architects and designers also reporting steady activity levels.
Independently-owned shops and big chains each added about five new brands to their offerings in this period. Consumers leaned towards affordable items like fragrances and decorative pieces to refresh their spaces during these uncertain times.
Inventory levels seem healthy overall. While 56% of retailers have normal stock, 35% of French independent shops reported issues with excess inventory. Still, optimism remains high: 90% of retailers plan to place more orders within the next few months, and 78% are hopeful about future sales.
Brands also show adaptability. Sixty-two percent reported normal inventory levels, and many are gearing up for new product launches—87% have plans in the pipeline. About 78% feel positive or neutral about upcoming sales.
Among architects and designers, the project pipeline is steady. Specifiers managed an average of five new projects during the first half of the year. Residential contracts remained stable, with a modest rebound seen in both France and globally. Strong investment in commercial design is on the rise too, with €1.3 billion poured into France in early 2025—a 239% increase compared to the same period last year. This sector is expected to expand over 10% each year through 2030, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
The hospitality industry is also growing. In restaurants, 43% of specifiers reported stable or rising activity, although independent establishments in France are still facing difficulties. Hotels, however, are on an upswing, with 54% of professionals noticing stable or higher project numbers, as major chains like Accor and Marriott expand aggressively worldwide.
Overall, the design and lifestyle sectors are showing resilience. As the industry adapts to changes, it’s clear that businesses are focused on moving forward.
For a deeper dive into the findings, check out the full report here.
