The painter and decorator industry in the UK is undergoing significant transformation in 2025. Driven by rising demand for sustainability, smart design, and digital convenience, professionals in this sector must adapt quickly to stay competitive.
Whether you’re a sole trader, contractor, or design firm, understanding the latest painting and decorating trends is key to standing out in a busy market.
UK Painter and Decorator Industry: Market Snapshot
In 2025, the UK painting and decorating market is showing signs of growth, with a projected value of £4.4 billion. While overall growth remains modest, the decorative paints and coatings segment is expanding faster, thanks to increasing demand for eco-friendly and design-focused products.
- Decorative coatings market set to grow at 3.8% CAGR through 2030.
- Decorative paints sector expected to rise from £3.25 billion in 2025 to over £4.5 billion by 2032.
- Strong regional activity in London, the Midlands, and the Northwest.
Top Painter and Decorator Trends in 2025
1. Eco-Friendly Paints and Sustainable Practices
Consumers are prioritising health and sustainability.
In 2025, expect high demand for:
- Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints
- Water-based coatings
- Brands with eco-certifications (e.g. BREEAM, LEED)
2. Smart Paints and Innovative Coatings
Technology is making its mark with:
- Self-cleaning and anti-bacterial paints
- Heat-reflective coatings for energy efficiency
- Smart finishes that change colour or resist moisture
3. Textured Finishes and Statement Walls
Homeowners are shifting from plain walls to feature walls with:
- Textured plasters (e.g. Venetian, limewash)
- Bold, rich colour palettes (greens, rusts, deep blues)
- 3D wall panels and metallic finishes
4. Biophilic Design and Natural Aesthetics
Interior design in 2025 is focused on wellness and calm.
Key elements include:
- Earth-toned paints (clays, olives, terracotta)
- Botanical-themed wallpaper
- Wood grain and natural textures
5. Personalised Spaces and Zoning
With more people working from home, decorators are increasingly tasked with:
- Zoning open-plan spaces
- Using paint to define home offices, play areas, and relaxation zones
- Bespoke colour schemes that reflect personal style
6. Digital Transformation in Decorating Services
Professional decorators are embracing tech:
- Online bookings, quotes, and invoicing
- Search engine optimisation (SEO) for better online visibility
- Social media portfolios to showcase work
7. Regional Construction and Infrastructure Boost
Government housing and infrastructure projects are expanding opportunities in:
- New-build housing developments
- Commercial fit-outs
- Facilities maintenance contracts
Industry Challenges in 2025
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| DIY competition | Homeowners doing it themselves due to economic uncertainty |
| Material costs | Price volatility for paints and supplies |
| Skills shortage | Fewer qualified tradespeople, especially in decorative techniques |
How Decorators Can Stay Ahead
- Offer sustainable and smart solutions
- Specialise in trending finishes
- Use digital tools and SEO to boost visibility
- Develop expertise in zoning and interior design
- Target commercial and regional opportunities
Future Outlook for UK Painting Sector
Despite a flat overall growth rate (~0.1% CAGR), decorative paint demand is rising steadily, particularly in bespoke and premium markets. Decorators who align with current design, sustainability, and technology trends will have a competitive edge in 2025 and beyond.
Seasoned professional with a strong passion for the world of business finance. With over twenty years of dedicated experience in the field, my journey into the world of business finance began with a relentless curiosity for understanding the intricate workings of financial systems.