As a local artist and muralist based in Columbus, Ohio, I’ve witnessed firsthand how commercial murals have evolved over the years. What started as a niche art form has now blossomed into a significant element of commercial design, bringing vibrancy, personality, and local flavor to everything from restaurants to office spaces. As we look toward 2025, the future of commercial murals seems brighter than ever, with new trends emerging that will shape how businesses incorporate art into their spaces.
Here are a few trends I believe will dominate the commercial mural scene in the coming year:
1. Interactive Murals: Merging Art and Technology
One of the most exciting trends in the world of commercial murals is the rise of interactive designs. As technology continues to advance, more businesses are looking to blend traditional art with modern tech. In 2025, we can expect to see more murals that incorporate digital elements, like augmented reality (AR) that come to life when scanned. This could mean that a mural on a restaurant wall, for example, transforms into a virtual tour of the business or provides engaging content for customers.
As a muralist, I see the potential for custom murals that invite people to interact with them in new ways—I am working on an AR mural tour of my own murals in Columbus! These types of murals create a memorable experience, transforming a static art piece into something that feels dynamic and alive. It’s a trend that speaks to our increasingly tech-savvy world, where businesses want to not only engage customers visually but also create an immersive experience.
2. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainability is a growing concern in every industry, and art is no exception. As environmental awareness increases, I expect to see a significant shift toward eco-friendly materials in the creation of commercial murals. In 2025, more businesses will prioritize sustainable paints, biodegradable materials, and low-emission processes when commissioning custom murals.
For muralists like me, this shift means being more conscious of the materials we use. I am curious to learn more about eco-friendly practices in 2025. Clients are also becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their design choices and are seeking artists who align with their sustainability values. In the years ahead, I believe eco-friendly murals will become the norm, not the exception.
3. Localized and Community-Centric Designs
As a local artist in Columbus, Ohio, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the communities I serve. One of the most powerful trends I see for 2025 is the growing demand for murals that reflect the unique culture and identity of the local community. Businesses are moving away from generic, mass-produced designs in favor of custom murals that speak to the specific history, values, and vibe of their area.
This trend aligns with the growing consumer desire for authenticity. In Columbus, I’ve worked on a number of murals that are deeply connected to the city’s culture, from designs that reflect local history to art that celebrates the diversity of its people. As more businesses look to foster a sense of community through art, muralists will be called upon to create custom designs that truly resonate with the audience, making each mural a reflection of the place and people it represents. My recent mural in Beechwold was a perfect example of a business owner celebrating the community through his mural commission!
4. Bold, High-Impact Murals for Branding
Commercial murals are increasingly being used as branding tools, and this trend will continue to gain momentum in 2025. Murals have a unique ability to convey a brand’s message in a bold and visually captivating way. More businesses will opt for large-scale, high-impact murals that not only beautify a space but also reinforce their brand identity.
In the past, I’ve created murals for local businesses in Columbus that have been eye catching for passerbys, with some becoming social media hotspots. As more brands realize the power of visual storytelling, I anticipate that we’ll see even more custom designs tailored specifically to enhance a company’s branding efforts. Whether it’s a restaurant, retail store, or co-working space, murals will continue to be an essential element in creating memorable brand experiences.
5. Integration of Multi-Disciplinary Art Forms
In 2025, commercial murals will no longer exist in a vacuum. We’ll see more murals that blend various artistic disciplines—sculpture, lighting design, and even performance art. This multi-disciplinary approach will allow businesses to create immersive environments where the mural itself becomes part of a larger, cohesive design experience.
For muralists, this means working closely with designers, architects, and other artists to create fully integrated experiences. As a muralist, I’m excited about this possibility, as it opens up new creative avenues to explore and collaborate on.
The future of commercial murals is an exciting one, full of possibilities for innovation and artistic expression. From interactive technology to eco-friendly materials, the trends on the horizon promise to shape the way we approach mural design in the years to come. As a local artist in Columbus, Ohio, I’m thrilled to be part of this evolving landscape, helping businesses tell their stories and bring their spaces to life through custom murals and designs. The commercial mural industry is growing, and 2025 will be a year of transformation and creativity.