Today we are exploring 2026 interior design trends that have appeal over the few next years. We are also hearing from three of my favorite design experts, Cindy, Annie and Carla.
Let’s face it…design trends usually take a couple of years to take hold and at my age, I’ve seen a lot of “everything old is new again.” You can keep your interiors fresh by embracing what you love with a few tweaks now and then.
2026 Interior Design Trends To Embrace
Nostalgia & Personal Storytelling
We have been talking about this for a while now and I think we all have been listening. Vintage pieces, heirlooms, mid-century furniture, and decor that references personal memories infuse interiors with meaning.
Every piece in my cousin’s living room tells a story and he will share it.
Less Open Floor Plans
This trend of having more “closed off” space is a direct result of more people working from home. When our kids were here over the holidays, the office was a popular spot working from home since you could close the door.
Cozy rooms…
The “Fifth Wall”
Ceilings are no longer ignored. Designers are painting or papering ceilings as an intentional design element to add drama and height.
Curves and Sculptural Forms
Furniture and architectural details are embracing rounded silhouettes and sculptural shapes. I’m not crazy about a lot of curved sofas and seating but a round coffee table or accent table can soften angles. As does an arched opening.
Smart Bidet Toilets
There are lots of reasons why a smart toilet is an upgrade to your bathroom remodel. If you have tried one in a hotel or at a friend’s home you will see why. The best one piece models have intelligent adjustable settings a for heated seat, dryer and water temperature. You will need an electrical outlet.
Read House Beautiful’s “The Best Smart Toilets Are Worth The Investment.”
Color Drenching & Monochrome Rooms
Painting full rooms — walls, trim, ceilings — in a single saturated hue creates a mood and cohesion while making spaces feel intimate.
Earthy Vibrancy & Warm Palettes
Rich deep earth colors like iron, espresso, olive green— are replacing cool grays and stark neutrals to bring depth into interiors.
Aged Metals & Tactile Materials
Unlacquered brass, bronze , copper and materials that develop a patina with time are trending, adding character.
Checkerboard Flooring
This has definitely been around but it seems to be gaining popularity again.
Let’s check out my friends’ thoughts on 2026 Design Trends.
CARLA ASTON
CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN
MOST LOVELY THINGS
Great post, MA. And timely as I gather inspiration for our new house. I adore color saturation. My daughter-in-law recently tole me she’s searching vintage pieces for their new home, and referenced grandma style. I had to laugh when I realized she meant mid-century modern and not the era of my grandmother. Generational divide! xo
I forgot to ask have you shared your cousin’s home before? I would like to see more. It is gorgeous!
Mary Ann This was a fun post. Love the checkerboard floors. Your brass pots on the wall always inspire me ! It looks so pretty. I do love the curved sofas for bis spaces. We once had one and I still miss it. A lot of people can sit on it comfortably.
Mary Ann, I love your post today! The fifth wall! Yes, ceilings are such a large space overlooked, and yet what an impact an interesting ceiling can make!
I’m with you on curved sofas! They do not look terribly comfortable!
Love seeing your copper!!
You nailed it on that Suzani Quilt etc at Pottery Barn – I can’t stop thinking about it!
Happy New Year, Mary Ann,
Scrolling. through your round up was enlightening. At the same time, It was fun to see glimpses of your charming home including your copper hanging outside your kitchen. I was inspired by yours when you first created it and continue to enjoy a similar display in my retirement kitchen. The warmth of the copper doesn’t seem like it will ever be “off trend”.
Hugs from Mercer Island,
Diney
Your cousin’s room is charming. It reminds me of my parents’ old CA home, which would still be “on trend” in 2026. When I see the “trends” you highlighted, I see an appreciation for warmth and timeless style. The puzzle pieces may be arranged differently than in the past, but there is a focus on quality materials with timeless appeal. It is reassuring to see an appreciation for things that aren’t the home equivalent of fast-fashion. You do a beautiful job of mixing these elements in your own homes.
Exactly Catherine!
Love these trends too, Mary Ann. It’s great to connect with you all again this year talking trends. I love how traditional, vintage and meaningful pieces are having their moment these days. It makes a home much more interesting! I’m working on several bathrooms now and we’re doing some smart bidet toilets! They are definitely popular these days.
Great article! I would love a tour of your cousin’s beautiful home.
Great roundup! I am not a fan of those odd curved sofas either Mary Ann. This is a trend that will quickly become dated in my opinion!