December 18, 2025
Top 6 Interior Design Trends 2026
There is something exciting about stepping into a New Year. It heralds a sense of possibility. It provides a chance for a fresh start. And it ignites the urge to refresh the spaces we live in. Every year brings new home improvement ideas in color, furnishings and design. These can make your home feel more comfortable, stylish, and alive.
A home is more than just a backdrop. It is where you live, rest, entertain, and make memories. It is not a space that just follows trends. But one that feels right every time you walk in. People pay attention to interior design trends. Not for fleeting fashion. But because trends help to make our homes feel better, work smarter, and connect with how we actually live today.
The 2026 interior design trends are all about human-centered spaces. They are about celebrating craftsmanship, personal expression, and functionality. Below is a list of top 6 2026 trends in the home design industry that you can use in your own home.
1) Curves, Limewash and Plasterwork – Soft Forms with Character
You have probably noticed that perfectly straight lines and sharp corners look neat. However, they can feel a bit cold after a while.
In 2026, homes are taking on softer and curvy shapes. Designers across the industry are calling this comfort with purpose. A design trend where curves actually improve flow and comfort in everyday living spaces instead of simply looking stylish.
Vogue’s 2026 interior forecast highlights how soft silhouettes and tactile materials are becoming a defining preference this year.
Highlights of this design upgrade include:
- Curved cabinetry – They break up hard lines for a friendly and approachable look.
- Soft archways or niches — These are great for homes with open floor plans.
- Limewash walls in living spaces — This soft and matte finish reflects light beautifully and hides small imperfections (perfect for older homes).
Where to use it:
- Living rooms, kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms.
Products to consider:
- Rounded edge kitchen islands (natural wood or matte lacquer)
- Limewash wall finishes from brands like Farrow & Ball or Portola Paints
- Plaster wall kits for DIY accent walls
2) Handmade and Hand-Painted Tile – Unique, Imperfect, and Real?
The cookie-cutter tiles of the past are giving way to handmade and hand-painted tiles. They feel more artisanal and custom like pieces of art for your home.
As part of the trends in 2026 you should forget perfectly uniform tiles. They look like they came off an assembly line. This year is all about authentic craft and character in surfaces.
According to design experts, tile is becoming architectural art rather than a purely functional material. Hand-painted and artisanal tile is rising fast as a standout trend.
This trend taps into something very real and lasting. It is authenticity. No two tiles are exactly the same. Slight variation is exactly what homeowners are craving.
Where to use it:
- Kitchen backsplashes (waterproof and high-impact)
- Bathroom showers and floors
- Accent walls in entryways and fireplaces
Products to consider:
- Moroccan Zellige tile
- Hand-painted ceramic tiles in bold patterns
- Terracotta encaustic cement tile
3) Bolder Colors and Textures – Mood Impacting, Not Just Pretty
Neutral shades are not going anywhere. But bolder color is joining the conversation.
Think of 2026 as the year interiors stop whispering and start expressing. Design trends 2026 are ushering in richer earth tones, jewel-inspired hues and layered textures. They feel warmer and more enduring.
Zillow’s home design trend analysis shows a clear color comeback with bold (but grounded) palettes like clay, olive, chocolate brown and sage gaining traction.
Color is going deeper with earthy reds, forest greens, deep ochres, and saturated neutrals. All are grounded in nature. But richer and more emotive.
Textures matter too:
- Bouclé furniture
- Textured wall panels
- Woven and kiln-textured fabrics
Where to use it:
- Accent walls, upholstery, rugs, drapery, and decorative pieces
Products to consider:
- Deep green velvet sofas
- Burnt orange area rugs
- Bouclé swivel chairs
4) Intentional and Sculptural Lighting – Functional Art
In interior design, lighting is never just bright enough to see.
In 2026 design trends too, we lean into lighting as an art form. Sculptural fixtures that are both functional and expressive. It is purposeful and beautiful. Designers are guiding homeowners to think of lighting like jewelry for your space. Fixtures that set a mood, highlight textures, and support everyday activities.
Forbes agrees calling out enhanced lighting and tactile fixtures as key design priorities this year.
Moreover, this trend combines in form, performance, and mood control. It is suitable for open floor plans and multi-use spaces.
Where to use it:
- Pendant lighting over kitchen islands
- Statement chandeliers in dining areas
- Sculptural floor lamps in living spaces
Products to consider:
- Orb LED pendants
- Asymmetrical metal chandeliers
- Curved floor lamps with integrated dimmers.
5) Color Drenching – Immersive Tones from Floor to Ceiling
What is color drenching? It means painting an entire room. The walls, trim, ceiling, and sometimes millwork, all in one cohesive color.
It is bold and immersive. Additionally, when done right, it is amazingly comforting.
You might have seen this on social feeds. One color everywhere in a room. Business Insider’s home design forecast confirms that color drenching is one of the major 2026 trends.
Where to use it:
- Dens and home offices
- Powder rooms
- Primary bedrooms
Featured Palettes:
- Muted teal
- Warm sienna
- Smoky lavender
- Moss green
6) Move away from Open Floor Plans, toward High Function and Better Flow
Open floor plans are not new. However, in 2026, they are smarter. Instead of “bigger and emptier,” the trend focuses on high-function, intentional zones that work for everyday life. Even with fewer square feet.
Designers are zoning living spaces with furniture, rugs, and lighting to create purpose without walls. Trend data shows buyers and renovators asking for purposeful open layouts that balance flow with defined comfort zones. This is perfect for modern living. It maximizes flow. It also keeps each space purposeful and cozy.
Key Elements:
- Visual separation without walls (area rugs, lighting zones)
- Furniture layout that defines purpose
- Storage that doubles as space division
Ideas to try:
- A curved sofa that defines the living space
- A kitchen island with a built-in banquette
- Room dividers that are open — like shelving with plants.
Our 5blox team has an experienced Design Team ready work with you, whether its upcoming trends or timeless design reach out for your free quote.