You don’t have to be an art lover to appreciate the surreal. If you’re fascinated by the dream world, magic, and all things, well, strange, this is your sign to make your space reflect that. Last fall, an interest in surrealism as a design style peaked on Pinterest, and it’s predicted to keep us under its spell this year.
“In 2025, people will infuse their tablescapes and decor with modern surrealism,” reads Pinterest Predict’s page, listing curvy candlesticks, fantastical flowers, and gravity-defying centerpieces as a few desired features users have searched for.
Why Surrealism Is Seeing a Resurgence
But how did an avant-garde art movement associated with interwar intellectuals become a trending aesthetic? Made famous by artists like Salvador Dalí, Joan Miro, and Rene Magritte after World War I, surrealists created dreamlike, sometimes absurd images that twisted reality. Surrealism also bled into literature and fashion, with the most notable fashion house taking inspiration from the movement being Schiaparelli, which famously collaborated with Dalí. And you can credit fashion for today’s resurgence in surrealism.
Although Schiaparelli’s atelier closed in the 1940s, the house has been revived. Over the past few years, its designs have become a favorite of editors and celebs, leading up to a viral moment with Kylie Jenner wearing a controversial lion headdress in January 2023. Kim Kardashian wore the brand to the Met Gala a few months later, solidifying its high-style status.
With this attention on Schiaparelli came a renewed interest in surrealism itself, and with that, the trend started to cross over into home design. If you’re still unsure what surrealism is or how you can add it to your space, an expert provided everything you need to know about channeling this aesthetic.
Robert Peterson
The Surrealism Trend at Home
“Surrealist decor is a style that blends dreamlike elements and unexpected combinations to create whimsical and imaginative spaces,” says Misty Summers, senior manager of artist community & curation at Society6. “It often features unusual shapes, bold colors, and striking patterns that challenge conventional design norms.”
The desire for maximalism and individualism in the home lends itself to this look. It’s imaginative and whimsical—basically made for self-expression and escapism. Summers argues that social media has also made the movement more accessible, which means you can find plenty of ideas while you scroll.
Melanie Acevedo
How to Incorporate Surrealism Into Your Current Design
Surrealism might feel out of your comfort zone if you think that your entire living room has to look straight out of a Dalí painting, but you don’t need to take it that far.
“To add surrealist decor to your current style, start with a few eye-catching pieces like abstract art prints or uniquely-shaped furniture that have a dreamlike feel,” Summers says. “Mix bold patterns and textures with your existing decor for a fun contrast. Include quirky accessories, such as art-laden acrylic trays or throw pillows, to show your personality and make your space more interesting.”
Given the origins of this aesthetic, art is still the quintessential way to celebrate surrealism—and Society6 has an assortment of options to choose from, like SECRET PLACE by Beth Hoeckel Art Print, A Strange Dream Art Print, and The Door of Dreams Canvas Print. Any of these pieces instantly give a room a dose of surrealist style.
Ultimately though, this style is really about play and exploring your imagination. The world of the surrealists is one without rules—so feel free to let loose and create a home that reflects your inner world. It’s a sure way to create a convention-defying space where you’ll love spending your time. Do Dalí proud.
