What design trends are we bringing to 2026? Let’s start with less “Instagram Perfect” and more real life. Less minimalistic and more lived-in. 2026 design trends will emphasize personality and authenticity. Blending mixed textures, warm earth tones and artisanal pieces to create an aesthetic that is stylish, individualized and welcoming.

The Lived-In Look

“Homes that feel genuinely lived-in and loved form one of the defining moods of the year,” explains Lucy Hammond Giles, director at Sibyl Colefax & Fowler (vogue.com). Interiors should be more than just stylish showpieces for Instagram; they should look lived in, personal and practical. Blend antique pieces, vintage décor and curated objects to create a space that is inviting and truly feels like a home - think “gentle clutter.” Whether showcasing a family heirloom or thrifted piece, merging vintage objects and furniture brings a sense of soul and story to a place. This focus on a time-worn aesthetic also reinforces a preference for sustainability and craftsmanship by repurposing furniture, supporting artisans and showing an appreciation of unique details and craft.

Textures, Textiles and Layering, Oh My!

Image by Marie Masureel via marthastewart.com

Sinclair Tassel-Fringed Velvet Pendent Anthropologie.com

Hortensia Wall Tapestry Mcgeeandco.com

Mixing textures, layering pieces and playing with fabrics creates depth and adds character. Designer Steven Graffam explains that the textural layering approach is “about creating a multisensory experience in the home” (housebeautiful.com). To achieve this look, combine rich wood grains with woven fibers and tactile wall finishes. Whether sourced from an auction house or a flea market, tapestries have a resurgence in 2026, as they “provide an enormous amount of visual impact, warmth and artistry,” says the New York-based interior designer Billy Cotton (newyorktimes.com). Wallpaper companies such as Watts 1874 are also taking inspiration from this decorative art form offering scenic collections printed on linen, velvet, grass cloth or paper. Lime wash is even making a comeback as a wall finish to provide neutral colors with more presence and interest. Decorative detailing (think fringe and tassels) is appearing on curtains, lampshades and upholstery. “Fringe accents add a pop of visual and tactile interest to any piece of furniture,” states designer Kathy Kuo (homesandgardens.com).

Knock on Wood

Kitchen cabinet, yiren-furniture.com

Manoir Bed, andsotobed.co.uk

In keeping with the trend towards interiors that feel more layered and well worn, darker toned wood finishes, burl style (show off those knots), and reclaimed pieces are popping up everywhere from standalone kitchen cabinets to sleigh beds. Ever versatile, wood pairs well with other materials such as natural stone to metals to soft fabrics.

The New Neutrals

Behr Hidden Gem

Benjamin Moore Silhouette

Sherwin Williams Universal Khaki

Dunn Edwads Midnight Green

No need to play it safe painting your walls gray or beige. The new neutrals are warm, earthy and muted. “Deep olives, moody blues, warm browns and softened plums are replacing flat neutrals,” states Jennifer Davis, of David Interiors (homesandgardens.com). With the world feeling slightly chaotic, these hues are rooted and grounded. Color preferences have become moodier with a deepening of tones. Maximalism to the max: Don’t be afraid to color drench an entire room (not just an accent wall) to promote an intimacy and sense of cocooning. Experiment with a vibrant color on trim or woodwork to create drama and highlight architectural details (houseandgardens.com).

2026 Trends