The bankruptcy of iconic home furnishing brand Riviera Maison, which was declared yesterday (24 June), has thrown the interior design world into turmoil. The brand, which was founded in 1948 and grew into an international player with dozens of shops and a strong brand identity, seemed untouchable for years. But the reality of 2025 shows that even established names are not immune to the structural challenges currently gripping the interior design industry.
The Interior Club clearly lays out the facts in an analysis of the state of the home and interiors market. What emerges? The problems are not temporary, but structural, is the conclusion. Yet there are also opportunities for the rest of 2025. What is the real state of affairs? And what can interior design professionals expect?
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Causes
The Dutch home and interior design industry experienced strong years during the pandemic, but since 2023, it has been in the doldrums. The headwinds come from several quarters, according to De Interieur Club's analysis:
- Low consumer confidence
In May 2025, consumer confidence stood at -37, according to CBS. Major spending - such as furniture - is being postponed or scrapped.
- Cost increases squeeze margins
Higher wages, energy and transport costs are putting pressure on suppliers and retailers. At the same time, consumers remain price-sensitive.
- Saturated market after corona peak
During corona, there was plenty of investment in interiors. That impulse has worn off. People now opt more often for experiences such as travel and hospitality.
- Stagnating housing market and new-build dip
Fewer removals and stagnation in housing construction - partly due to nitrogen regulations - limit the natural demand for new furnishings.
- Online competition and changing buying behaviour
Those who fail to touch or entice consumers digitally with experience and service are losing ground.
Figures
The signals from the market are not soft. According to ING Research, the turnover of the Dutch home furnishing sector in 2023 was still around €11.1 billion. In 2024, the market shrank by 7%, reports Wonen360 on the basis of industry figures.
Internationally, the picture is similar: almost all European countries saw furniture sales decline by between 3% and 9% in 2024.
The number of bankruptcies in the Netherlands rose by almost 30% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
The Interieur Club links these developments to a broader trend: those who do not continue to innovate are behind the times.
Optimism
So is there no bright spot at all? Certainly there is.
- Slight recovery of purchasing power
Inflation is down to 1.5%, and thanks to wage increases, there is some room in the wallet. ING expects sales growth of 4% in non-food retail by 2025.
-Housing market picks up
ING predicts a 10% increase in housing transactions in 2025. That means more establishments, especially in existing buildings.
- Recalibrating strategies
Smart interior companies are shifting focus: less physical expansion, more wholesale, export, circular products and inspiring shop concepts. The classic showroom is transforming into a service-oriented inspiration point.
Opportunities
For interior architects, designers, retailers and brands, there are opportunities in niches and new approaches:
- Sustainable and circular design is becoming increasingly important for both private and corporate clients.
- Project design in hospitality, short-stay, healthcare and office continues to grow.
- Advice, personalisation and total concepts are gaining ground compared to just 'selling products'. Consumers demand more involvement and storytelling.
Conclusion
Riviera Maison's fall is painful, but at the same time a wake-up call for the entire industry. As the market changes, so do consumers. Companies that are flexible, dare to invest in brand experience, digital channels and sustainability stand the best chance of not only surviving this storm, but coming out of it stronger.
Source: The Interior Club