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Go With the Flow: How Curves Are Shaping Design in 2025

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Curves are making a bold comeback in architecture and interiors, offering a welcome contrast to the sharp minimalism of recent years. The resurgence of curves is also closely tied to a broader retro revival. From arched doorways and rounded furniture and décor, this organic design trend invites a sense of serenity into homes and commercial spaces.

Shaped by Nature, History, and Retro Charm

As an alternative to minimalism, designers and architects are now taking cues from the bold, expressive styles of the 1960s and 1970s, an era known for its rounded furniture, sculptural forms and vibrant colours. Today, this nostalgic style is being reimagined with a more grounded approach, pairing muted earthy tones with vintage-inspired shapes to create warm and inviting interiors.

Terracotta All Around: Klay’s Fluted Tiles

Crafted from natural terracotta, Klay’s Fluted Series celebrates the beauty of rhythm, and its design potential is anything but rigid. These rounded terracotta tiles allow designers to create sweeping walls and sculptural façades. Whether installed vertically or horizontally, the linear movement of the rounded tiles creates an energetic surface that shifts with light.

For those who prefer subtle geometry, Klay’s peaked flutes offer a more structured profile that pairs beautifully with curved interiors, adding contrast and dimension without disrupting the softness of the space. While the fluted series adds beautiful texture to walls, their rounded or peaked profile isn’t ideal for use on flooring. They’re designed to be felt with the eyes, not underfoot. These tiles, as with Klay’s full range of cladding products, are suitable for use in areas that may be exposed to heat or moisture like the kitchen, bathroom and outdoors, as long as they are finished with a proper sealant.

Curves, Colour, and Klay: Architecture on Display

The Tropicana Hotel in Sea Point is an iconic addition to Cape Town’s skyline. Drenched in pink and blue, this vision came to life by Robert Silke, along with Signatura Property Development and RMD. Built with Klay’s Maxi bricks, the hotel boasts bold Art Deco curves, a striking nod to Miami modernism, revived for the Atlantic Seaboard.

Their signature ground floor restaurant, Juno, has also embraced the curve and showcases fluted tile cladding along their counter – a modern interpretation of curved architecture that creates texture and engages the senses. So, next time you’re going for your Sunday morning walk on the promenade, pop into Juno for some delicious design inspiration (their croissant French toast is also to die for!).

Shape the Mood: How Curves Create Calm, Welcoming Spaces

When incorporating curves in interior design, it’s often the subtle touches that make the biggest impact. A curved wall or fluted cladding can soften harsh edges, their organic forms help make spaces feel more natural and nurturing. Let Klay’s Fluted Tiles be your point of departure when designing your next curvy creation.