ASID 2025 Year in Review
As 2025 draws to a close, we look back on a year of progress, creativity and connection in the design community. From a successful national conference, GATHER, where many in our industry came together to celebrate 50 years of ASID, to honoring those who have excelled as ASID designers through our robust award programs, we’ve witnessed meaningful innovations, milestone projects and an inspiring commitment to the design industry as a whole. As we reflect on these moments of commitment and growth from this past year, we look forward to 2026 and the industry’s continued dedication to design professionals and the creation of spaces that enhance the lives of those who inhabit them.
Residential design has evolved this past year in ways that really reflect where people are in their lives. We’re all rethinking what matters, as we redefine comfort and ask what “home” really means. Clients are coming to the table with more intentional questions and they are prioritizing quality and wellness over quick fixes. They are seeing design as an investment in how they live, not just how things look.
In my own practice, we’ve noticed our role with our clients and our design firm has become increasingly strategic. We keep a close eye on ASID’s Trends and Economic Outlook reports because they help us stay engaged in what’s happening across the industry. Our clients trust us to know and to understand where the market’s heading and how to translate that into spaces that work for them.
ASID’s research cements the power of the interior design profession and other built environment contributors. Specifically for 2025, the Barnes Report adds an estimated 56,449 self-employed interior designers, reflecting a 3.4% year-over-year increase. When combining both employed and self-employed professionals, the total number of interior designers in the U.S. is estimated at nearly 128,509. The data underscores a stable, resilient profession, one that continues to adapt, expand its reach and shape the evolving landscape of design.
What stands out to me about these numbers isn’t only the growth, but a real nod to the stability and maturity of the design industry. Even as the world shifts, interior design continues to prove its value and adaptability. We’re seeing more collaboration between design and construction professionals and a stronger demand for spaces that perform on multiple levels: aesthetic, functional and emotional. The ASID data reminds us that this is not a niche industry; it’s a vital, evolving profession that touches how people engage with the built environment every single day.
From a business and design firm perspective, the U.S. interior design sector continues to demonstrate steady growth. According to the 2025 Barnes Report for U.S. Interior Design Services, the number of interior design firms is projected to reach nearly 17,500 in 2025, marking a 3.4% increase from the previous year.Recognizing the challenges of running a design business, ASID has curated resources such as Design Business, Design Careers and Design learning to support professionals in starting, sustaining and strengthening their firms, helping the community navigate these changing market conditions.
Running a design business today takes more than creativity. It takes strategy, structure and support. For residential designers and small studios, ASID’s resources help bridge the gap between the creative side and the business side. Many people see the beauty in what we do but do not always realize the strategy behind it, from pricing and process to the constant balancing act that comes with a changing market.
This past year reminded us that design thrives not only in moments of prosperity but in times of change. Interior designers have shown incredible adaptability, navigating market shifts, embracing new technologies and finding creative ways to meet clients where they are. The continued expansion of design firms, along with the resilience of small studios, shows just how vital and diverse the industry is becoming.
ASID has continued to be intentional about building a strong and professional design community. I have experienced that journey firsthand, from my days as a student member to an emerging professional, Allied, Professional and now Fellow and the Chair-Elect to the National Board. Over the years, I have watched this organization progress in influence and impact, always pushing the profession forward. As we move into 2026, I am inspired by the momentum we have built and excited for what is ahead; a year to explore new ideas, strengthen our connections and continue elevating the standard of what design can do.
Shundra Harris is the Director At Large for ASID National Board. She is also the CEO of Shundra Harris Interiors. She can be reached at Sharris@shundraharrisinteriors.com.
This column is feature in our December issue of Builder and Developer, read more here
