Top Commercial Painting Trends to Watch in 2025

In the world of commercial painting, trends are constantly shifting. Colours, finishes, and materials evolve as businesses seek to refresh their spaces, attract more customers, and stay relevant in a competitive market. As 2025 approaches, new styles and practical choices are beginning to shape how commercial buildings look and feel.

Whether you’re planning a full-scale refurbishment or just a colour refresh, understanding the latest trends can help you make smart design decisions that boost your brand image and property value.

If you’re working with commercial painting contractors in Bournemouth, staying informed on these trends will help you communicate your vision clearly and achieve the best results.

Warmer Neutrals Are Making a Comeback

Neutral tones never really go out of style, but in 2025, the cooler greys and stark whites are taking a back seat. Warmer neutrals like soft beige, taupe, clay, and muted caramel are gaining popularity in commercial spaces. These shades create a more welcoming atmosphere while still maintaining a clean, professional look.

Businesses are favouring these colours in reception areas, open-plan offices, and healthcare environments where calm and comfort are key.

Bold Accent Walls for Brand Personality

Accent walls aren’t new, but in 2025, they’re being used with more intention. Companies are choosing bold, vibrant colours that reflect their brand identity or energise the space. Think deep navy in boardrooms, rich terracotta in retail spaces, or fresh greens in cafés.

Accent walls help break up monotonous interiors, draw attention to key areas, and give businesses a modern edge. Commercial painters often recommend washable or scuff-resistant finishes for these high-visibility zones.

Sustainable Paints and Eco-Friendly Choices

Environmental awareness is no longer just a trend — it’s a necessity. In 2025, businesses are leaning towards low-VOC and zero-VOC paints to improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions. These eco-friendly options are especially popular in schools, hospitals, and office buildings where health is a top priority.

Commercial painting contractors are also seeing more demand for paints made from recycled materials and natural pigments. Choosing sustainable options doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or colour variety. Many brands now offer premium eco-conscious paints with excellent durability and finish.

Textured Finishes for Depth and Interest

Flat and satin finishes still have their place, but textured walls are starting to take centre stage in 2025. Subtle textures like brushed suede, linen effects, or stone-look finishes add depth without overwhelming the space.

These finishes are being used in lobbies, lounges, and boutique retail stores to create visual interest and a more luxurious feel. With the right application, textures can also help mask surface imperfections and reduce the appearance of wear and tear over time.

Matte Over Gloss for a Softer Look

Matte finishes are gaining popularity for their sophisticated, glare-free appearance. In commercial environments, matte paints are being chosen for conference rooms, corridors, and other spaces where a modern, understated look is preferred.

Improvements in paint technology mean that matte options today are more durable and easier to clean than older versions, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas as well.

Colour Zoning for Functional Spaces

In 2025, colour is being used more strategically within commercial interiors. Colour zoning involves using different shades to define spaces or guide people through a building. It’s commonly used in open-plan offices, warehouses, or educational settings.

For example, soft greens might indicate quiet zones, while brighter blues or reds highlight collaborative areas. This trend improves flow, boosts productivity, and adds a unique design element that stands out.

Monochromatic Schemes for a Sleek Finish

Monochromatic designs — using varying tones of a single colour — are trending across corporate offices and tech companies. This style creates a seamless, cohesive look that feels both calming and professional.

Using lighter and darker versions of the same hue across walls, trims, and ceilings can help define spaces subtly without contrasting colours. It’s a favourite for minimalist brands or businesses that want a clean and modern feel.

Brand-Centric Colour Palettes

Companies are taking a more brand-focused approach to painting. Instead of sticking to generic tones, they are incorporating brand colours directly into their spaces. This could mean painting entire feature walls in brand hues or using subtle nods to logo colours in trims and accents.

It’s a smart way to reinforce identity, build trust, and leave a lasting impression on customers and visitors. Commercial painters can offer guidance on how to match paint shades to exact brand colours for consistency.

Functional Coatings for High-Use Areas

Beyond colour and aesthetics, functional coatings are seeing more use in 2025. These include anti-bacterial paints, moisture-resistant coatings, and scuff-proof finishes. They’re particularly important in hospitality, healthcare, and educational settings where walls face heavy daily use.

Professional commercial painters are well-versed in these products and can recommend the best ones based on your building’s purpose and foot traffic.

FAQs

1. What colours are popular for commercial spaces in 2025?
Warm neutrals, bold accent colours, and brand-focused tones are trending in 2025. Matte finishes and monochromatic palettes are also widely used for a modern, cohesive look.

2. Are eco-friendly paints a good choice for commercial use?
Yes. Low-VOC and eco-conscious paints are now just as durable and visually appealing as traditional options. They’re especially popular in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.

3. What is colour zoning in commercial painting?
Colour zoning uses different paint colours to define areas within a building, such as work zones, break rooms, or quiet areas. It improves organisation and enhances visual flow.

4. Can textured finishes be used in high-traffic areas?
Yes. Textured finishes like brushed or stone-effect paints not only add depth but also help hide wear and tear. They’re great for lobbies, hallways, and retail interiors.