Design Trends to Watch ~ 2026
I love watching trends—predicting what’s coming, what’s fading, and what’s quietly taking shape. I love paying attention to the industry, flipping through design magazines, listening to podcasts, and noticing patterns as they begin to emerge. Over time, I’ve learned to trust my eye and lean into what feels instinctual. Because it brings me joy and genuinely excites me, I love putting together a yearly Design Trends to Watch—diving into the details and styles I’ve had my eye on and sharing what I’ve been noticing with you.
Talking about design trends can feel a little controversial. I think that’s because people like what they like—and that’s a good thing. No one wants to hear that something they love is “out,” or that something they’ve never been drawn to is suddenly trending. But here’s the thing: trends aren’t rules. There’s nothing to follow or not follow. It doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s just for fun. For me, it’s simply fun.
I call it Design Trends to Watch—not just Design Trends or What’s In vs. Out—for a very intentional reason. It’s not about what’s considered “in” or “out.” At the end of the day, that doesn’t matter. What matters is that you feel inspired, not defeated. This isn’t about adopting the newest trend, going all-in on one look, or feeling pressure to change your home. It’s about observing. Feeling. Noticing what resonates. What feels like you? What creates a spark?
To be honest, I edit and evolve my own home slowly. I almost never dive headfirst into a trend. The most exciting part for me is the watching—the paying attention, the listening, the noticing of what lights me up. Then, over time, I add thoughtfully. A piece here, a detail there—things that enhance our home and add meaning to our personal collection. So as you read through these trends, consider them differently. What feels like you? What would truly add to your home—to who you already are?
With that in mind, here are the design trends I’m watching as we head into 2026 (in no particular order)…
1. British Romance.
The British often get it right when it comes to interiors. I think it’s because they embrace “lived-in” in a way that feels thoughtful. They embrace imperfection in a way that feels intentional. They embrace whimsy. British Romance takes that cozy charm and layers in a soft, feminine elegance. Think more—more ruffles, more florals, more chintz. More pattern, especially gingham and ticking stripes. Add in vintage finds and the warm, inviting color palettes you’d expect from traditional British interiors. It’s collected, storied, and deeply personal.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Penny Morrison; Heidi Caillier; Nicole Salvesen; The Havenly}
2. Elevated Cottage
Elevated Cottage shares a natural kinship with British Romance, so it’s no surprise that both styles are having a moment. They overlap in all the right ways—soft, lived-in, and thoughtful. Where Elevated Cottage differs is in its refinement. It feels cottage-inspired, but with an added air of sophistication. Layered, but not cluttered. Cozy, yet intentional. Subtle modern touches create a beautiful sense of balance. Kendall Jenner’s mountain home, designed by Heidi Caillier, is a perfect example of Elevated Cottage—touched with just a hint of British Romance.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Kelsey Leigh Design Co; W Design Collective; Salvesen Graham; Katie Rosenfeld & Company}
3. Dressmaker Details
If you haven’t already noticed, there’s been a quiet return to craftsmanship—and it’s been building for a while. The tide is turning away from fast and disposable, and back toward bespoke pieces made with care. Artistry. Tailoring. Needlework (monograms are back, baby). An attention to detail that feels intentional and lasting.
In 2026, we’ll continue to see a rise in dressmaker details—an organic extension of British Romance and Elevated Cottage, where these elements already play a starring role. Think interiors that feel tailored and slightly formal: pleated lampshades, skirted furniture, contrast piping, covered buttons, and thoughtful trim. Details borrowed from couture, translated into the home. These specialized, often hand-finished touches add structure and refinement, elevating a space from simply styled to deeply considered. It’s craftsmanship you can feel—quiet, beautiful, and made to last. If you’re drawn to dressmaker details but aren’t sure how to incorporate them into your home, start small—swap in a pleated lampshade, add contrast piping to a pillow, or choose skirted furniture where you can.
{Image/📷Credits – all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Amber Interiors; Amber Interiors and Loloi Rugs; Oho Interiors; Oho Interiors}
4. Pattern on Pattern
Pattern on pattern is nothing new. In fact, I had it on my Design Trends to Watch in 2024 list. This year, however, you’re going to see even more of it. Think more is more. Think pattern drenching. Previously, people were nervous to try this trend—it felt risky and easy to get wrong. But the designers who got it right, got it really, really right, and people noticed. There’s something whimsical about it. It can feel warm, inviting, and full of personality. Over time, the nerves have settled, and this “trend” has proven it’s here to stay—at least for a while.
Pattern on pattern is also about layering—and we’re seeing an unapologetic return to it. Patterned wallpaper, patterned sofas, patterned tile, and patterned textiles can work together in thoughtful harmony. It builds on many of the previous trends—especially British Romance and Elevated Cottage—adding depth and that collected, lived-in feeling both styles do so well. In these interiors, pattern isn’t precious or perfectly matched. Florals mix with stripes, checks layer with texture, and pieces feel gathered over time rather than styled all at once. Pattern on pattern simply takes that same philosophy and leans in.
Of course, pattern on pattern can be tricky to get right. If you want to embrace it, a few guidelines can help. Pay attention to scale and pattern style—pair a bold, large-scale pattern with something smaller and more subtle. Mix florals with stripes or gingham. Balance is key, and when it’s done well, the result feels intentional, expressive, and personal.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram- Studio Laloc; Avrea and Company; Lulu and Georgia; @housesevendesign}
5. Florals Reimagined
As a child of the ’80s and ’90s, I’ve sat on my fair share of floral sofas—so I was honestly surprised to see them making a comeback. I’ve been watching this trend quietly emerge, and now it’s safe to say: florals are back, just reimagined. As divisive as this may seem—the floral sofa is enjoying a full revival. Just a few short years ago, you wouldn’t have dreamed of having a sofa that wasn’t upholstered in solid, neutral-colored fabrics. Cream (or gray or beige) ruled the scene, so it’s somewhat wild to see its exact opposite make a grand re-emergence. This trend may even deserve its own Design Spotlight, because I’m a bit fascinated. We may need to discuss further.
But florals aren’t stopping at sofas. They’re appearing everywhere—from wallpaper to drapery to cafe curtains to bedding. As a focused extension of Pattern on Pattern, florals offer charm, depth, and a storied, comforting feel. The florals of 2026 bring character in a way that feels fresh: heritage-inspired, yet made for now. Plus, a dose of nostalgia never hurts.
One thing is certain: design trends always come full circle.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Oho Interiors; Heidi Caillier Design; Jenny Rose-Innes; Arhaus}
6. Micro-Print Wallpaper
Wallpaper weaseled its way back into our homes and hearts years ago, and its popularity hasn’t waned. But the style evolves slightly each year, and in 2026, micro-print wallpaper is having a moment. You’ll recognize it from British Romance interiors—small-scale, intricate patterns that add texture and quiet interest. This style creates intimate, charming moments that feel lived-in, almost like a whisper of pattern rather than a shout.
Acting as a “textured neutral,” micro-print wallpaper layers effortlessly with other design elements—perfect for bedrooms, hallways, or those little nooks that need a touch of charm. Like Pattern on Pattern and the florals we’ve been talking about, it sneaks in just enough personality to make a space feel cozy, collected, and charming—without demanding attention.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Amber Interiors; Sims Hilditch Interiors; Shoppe Amber Interiors; Heidi Caillier Design}
7. Shades of Blue
Is blue ever unpopular? I don’t think so. Blue is always in—always a good choice. It’s beloved and timeless, and has a way of adding a heritage feel to a space. Blue can be calming, playful, or sophisticated, depending on the shade and where it’s used. It has always been a favorite of mine, but it’s definitely having an even bigger moment right now.
In 2026, blue in every shade—from pale, dusty hues to deep, inky navies—is trending. We’re seeing it used almost as a neutral across cabinetry, upholstery, tile, and walls. After all the pattern and layering, blue feels like a calming reset. It grounds our spaces and supports every other trend. Watch for traditional blue-and-white pieces—like ginger jars—to be popping up more often as well. Blue is a breath of fresh air.
{Image/📷Credits – all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – McGee and Co; @alexadamsondesign; The Misfit House; Magnolia}
8. Brown as a Neutral
After years of being avoided in favor of cool grays and crisp whites, brown has quietly re-emerged as a true neutral. We’ve been easing our way back in for a while—softening the language, renaming the shades, finding ways to make it feel fresh again. And then, almost all at once, something shifted. We got comfortable with brown again. Dare I say, even excited about it.
Brown offers a depth and warmth that other neutrals simply don’t. It feels grounding and rich, yet still timeless. Think warm woods, worn leather, chocolate, espresso, and soft mocha tones. In 2026, expect to see brown used with confidence—on walls, cabinetry, furniture, and textiles—bringing balance and warmth to spaces that crave a little soul.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Fire Clay Tile; Fire Clay Tile; @caisley_interiors; Raychel Wade Design}
9. Vintage-Inspired Baths
Feeling like a comforting blast from the past, vintage-inspired bathrooms are gaining momentum in 2026. This is your grandparents’ bathroom—just gently reimagined. Think whimsical, nostalgic colors: icy blues, soft greens, dusty mauves, and even warm, buttery yellows. And yes, the 4×4 tiles of yesteryear have officially re-entered the conversation.
Bathrooms are moving back toward tradition and comfort, but with the modern functionality we actually need. The spaces we’re seeing feel timeless and familiar, layered with classic silhouettes, unlacquered finishes, and plenty of tile. It’s nostalgia, but done thoughtfully.
And then there’s the wooden toilet seat. Yep—you read that correctly. While I wouldn’t go so far as to call it a trend, it’s another quiet nod to vintage-inspired bathrooms that’s popping up more often. Once firmly in the “outdated” category, it somehow feels charming again—perhaps thanks to that romantic British influence working its way into even our most utilitarian spaces.
{Image/📷Credits- all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Rebecca Hughes Interiors; Basic Projects; Heidi Caillier Design; Basic Projects}
10. Heirlooms & Silver
One of the most meaningful trends you’ll be seeing more of in 2026—and one I hope is here to stay—is a return to quality and craftsmanship. Well-made, bespoke pieces. One-of-a-kind furniture. Your grandmother’s silver collection. Heirlooms that last. After too many years of fast fashion and disposable design, we’re all craving something more enduring. Something meaningful. Something sentimental. Something steeped in heritage.
This will show up as inherited furniture, collected objects, and a revived love of silver—used, polished, and proudly displayed. Pieces with history. Pieces with stories.
This “trend” feels almost like an anti-trend, and maybe that’s exactly why it belongs here at the end of our list. After all, 2026 is all about the timeless, the personal, and the collected—design that feels as enduring as it does intentional.
{Image/📷Credits – all images are from Pinterest or Instagram – Feast Vintage; Oho Interiors; Amber Interiors; Rachel Halvorson Designs}
Also Noticing:
There are a few quieter details I’m also noticing—trends that didn’t make the Top Ten but echo the list above, adding personality and warmth to your home. A few honorable mentions…
- Homes That Feel Like You – The biggest push is toward homes that feel more individual. More unique. Spaces curated with intention—a home that’s unmistakably yours. This echoes the spirit of Pattern on Pattern, florals, and heirlooms, where personal touches layer together to create a collected, individual spaces.
- Rich, Dark Woods – Darker, moodier wood tones are having a moment, bringing warmth, depth, and elegance back into our homes. I’m especially loving walnut right now—it’s my favorite! These richer shades pair beautifully with the Brown-as-a-Neutral trend, grounding spaces while adding a sense of history and soul.
- Monograms Make a Comeback – Can you believe monograms have made their way back?! Personalized initials and bespoke details have quietly slipped into interiors. Sliding right into the “Dressmaker Details” trend, monograms add a custom touch—a small, intentional accent that elevates everyday pieces and makes a space feel even more yours.
- Elevated Millwork – Thoughtful trim and detailing that brings structure and sophistication to a space. Pairing beautifully with Pattern on Pattern, florals, and British Romance interiors, elevated millwork adds a polished, intentional touch.
- Art as the Centerpiece – Curated, personal artwork takes the spotlight and gives your home a story all its own. Like heirlooms and collected pieces, art adds history, and a sense of meaning.
One thing is clear for 2026: homes are leaning into comfort, warmth, and personality. Lived-in, layered, collected spaces are rising as a quiet response to the world around us—when life feels heavy, we want rooms that hold us, walls that embrace us, corners that invite us to linger. Sterile minimalism is gone. Give us spaces that feel like home. Let go a little. Embrace the slightly relaxed, the softly imperfect, the wonderfully lived-in.
Think of these trends as an invitation, not a checklist. Notice what sparks curiosity. Lean into what feels familiar. Trust your instincts. Let your home evolve slowly, thoughtfully, and in a way that is unmistakably—and joyfully—yours.
