12 Interior Design Trends for 2026 to Get Excited About: Tons of Character, More Color, Lots of Style
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If there’s one thing I’m loving about the direction of home design right now, it’s that 2026 is shaping up to be the year of character. I’m seeing a continued move toward warmer spaces, thoughtful details, and beautifully lived-in homes that feel curated rather than decorated. In other words, my dream aesthetic.
Which brings me to my thoughts on trends in general. I think some people hear “trend” and think of design without staying power, a fad. Truth is, a trend is just something that’s really popular. Something being a trend doesn’t mean it isn’t classic, or timeless. Sometimes a timeless design element will become trendy, but when that trend dies out, it won’t look dated. Think of subway tile or shiplap, for instance. The Joanna Gaines 2010s design de jour took the US by storm, but subway tile and shiplap have been around for 100+ years. They may not be trending in the 2020s, but because you would’ve seen them in the 1920s, they don’t look dated today.
All of the trends I’m sharing with you are either timeless (as I see it), or something that will need to be replaced right around the time it could possibly become “out”. In the end, these are my observations of the direction the design world is taking, and what I think is worth being excited about.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just refreshing a few corners of your home, these are the 12 biggest interior design trends for 2026.
Brown (in Every Shade)
Warm brown has been creeping back over the past few years and it shows not signs of stopping. From walnut cabinetry to deep chocolate textiles and even camel-tan walls, brown brings a grounded, cozy energy that instantly makes a room feel richer. I love pairing warm browns with creamy whites, antique brass, and textured neutrals for a look that’s elevated but still approachable.
Rendering of a Rocky Hill Home design.
Shop the Brown Trend
More Decorative Glass
2026 is all about those pretty glass details: stained glass, ribbed glass, seeded glass, antique glass, and even fluted cabinet fronts. Use decorative glass in furniture doors, interior French doors, built-ins, and small accents to add light, sparkle, and texture without adding visual clutter.
Shop the Decorative Glass Trend
Cozy Kitchens That Don’t Feel Like Kitchens
I’m seeing a huge shift away from sterile, hyper-minimal kitchens. Instead, homeowners want warm, layered kitchens that feel like part of the living space: furniture-style islands, pantry nooks that mimic old-world sculleries, and cozy eat-in corners with upholstered seating. Growing up, my grandmother had a sitting area in her kitchen, so this trend feels nostalgic for me. When a kitchen feels like a room you actually want to live in, not just cook in, it changes the whole house.
4. Curves in Furniture, Architecture and Decor
Another trend that’s been slowly baking for the past few years, soft silhouettes will be everywhere in 2026: rounded armchairs, curved sofas, arched doorways, even oval and round coffee tables. Leaning into curves will instantly soften a room and make it feel more inviting. Go ahead, break up those hard edges.
Shop the Curve Trend
5. A Color Comeback (Goodbye All-White Everything)
Color is back in a big way, and I don’t mean bright hues. Muddy greens, muted blues, earthy stone, and buttery neutrals are becoming the new classics. Layer color in paint, upholstery, rugs, and even wall art to create spaces that feel personal and full of life.
6. Classic Patterns Making a Strong Return
Stripes, plaids, checks, and even the occasional toile are all trending for 2026. These patterns have such staying power, and I love using them to give a room instant warmth. Think striped drapes, small-scale plaid pillows, or a checkered rug to ground the space.
7. Statement Lighting as Functional Art
Lighting is no longer just a necessity—it’s one of the most important design decisions you can make. I’m seeing oversized pendants, sculptural sconces, dramatic chandeliers, and layered lighting combinations everywhere. When lighting is treated like art, the entire room feels more intentional.
8. Wood Paneling for Instant Warmth
From beadboard to vertical slats to full room paneling, wood walls will be everywhere in 2026. I love how paneling adds dimension and quiet luxury without needing additional decor. Painted a rich color or left natural, it works beautifully in entryways, dining rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
Rendering of a Rocky Hill Home design.
9. Wallpaper That Transforms a Room
Wallpaper continues to dominate, but 2026 takes it beyond accent walls. I’m seeing full-room installations, ceilings, mudrooms, and even closets getting the wallpaper treatment. The right print adds history, personality, and warmth—especially in smaller or awkward rooms.
10. Heritage Style (Modern Traditional + Modern Nostalgia)
This one is close to my heart. Heritage-inspired spaces are all about mixing timeless silhouettes with modern functionality. Think traditional millwork, vintage-inspired hardware, classic fabrics, and a collected-over-time look. You’ll see it called many things. Shea McGee is calling it “New Heritage”, Julia Marcum is using “Polished Heritage”, I like to simply use “Modern Traditional”, but that’s just a branding choice. In the end it’s the same soulful, classic style, with a modern twist.
This shot from Studio McGee is a great example of many current and upcoming trends in once space. Dark finishes, quiet color, lots of pattern, browns, and a mix of modern and traditional style.
11. Dark Finishes for Depth and Drama
Whether it’s iron hardware, black-stained wood, oil-rubbed bronze lighting, or deep espresso furniture, darker finishes add instant contrast. I love mixing dark accents into warm, neutral rooms to create depth without making the space feel heavy.
12. Gallery Walls That Tell Your Story
In 2026, gallery walls are less about perfect symmetry and more about personal storytelling. I’m styling walls with vintage art, family pieces, landscapes, sketches, framed textiles, anything that adds meaning. When a wall feels collected and layered, it brings so much soul to the room.
Final Note
So there you have it! I’m bet I’m not the only one excited about where interior design is headed in 2026. These trends feel warm, personal, and rooted, exactly the kind of style I love bringing into my own home. Whether you introduce one trend or layer several together, the goal is the same: create a space that feels like you.
If you want more inspiration (or paint colors to pair with these trends), make sure you check out my paint guides and weekly mood boards, they’re packed with ideas you can use right away.
