Source: Anthropology
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2026 Design Trends
In a world where our news feeds are filled with turmoil happening around the world and we are constantly questioning what is real and what is fake, people are craving comfort, familiarity, and security now more than ever. Spaces that calms your nervous system and help you recharge after a long day of staying hyper vigilant are on the rise and 2026 interior design trends echo these sentiment with the use of grounding materials, nostalgic treasures and playful details.
Less AI, More ‘Lived-In’ Spaces
Yes, lived in! Places that feel too staged and unrealistic do nothing to help us let our guard down. Places with soul and personality do. How do we achieve this? With natural materials, meaningful objects that come with stories, and ‘intentional without being manicured’ living spaces. Take a load off, put your feet up and stress less because the the allure of ‘Pinterest perfect’ and heavily curated rooms has worn off.
Credit Ellerslie Interiors
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Saturated Blue
Said to represent clarity, peace, and stability, deep saturated blues have been gaining popularity when it comes to 2026 color trends with Deluxe naming an entire family of blues as their ‘2026 Colours of the Year’. Three great techniques designers use to incorporate trending colours into a home include colour drenching or double drenching, tonal layering (using a different shade on walls, ceiling and trim) and adding blue accent pops via decor, window treatments and furniture!
Solid Area Rugs
Where patterns and motifs used to dominate, solid area rugs are now gaining momentum but with a luxury upgrade that focuses on tactility. The use of ‘high-and-low’ pile profiles are a great example of this as they give solid area rugs ‘pattern’ or ‘movement’ by providing subtle ‘light-play’. A chunky weave can also do the trick by feeling rich and grounding while ‘biomorphic’ or irregular shaped solid area rugs (my favourite) can be eye catching - like a sculpture for the floor - and soften sharper furniture lines.
‘Burl Furniture’ is currently on the rise in Google search! Credit Arhaus
Warm Dark Woods in Furniture
While last year cabinetry and millwork were popular places for designers to incorporate dark stains, this year dark furniture pieces will add to the momentum. A dark stained English oak sideboard can feel inherited even if they are brand new and give a room more warmth and character while also being grounded and cozy. It’s also a great way to take advantage of this growing wood trend without committing to an expensive remodel.
Tiles As The Main Character
A great way to add visual movement or a backdrop to your space, tiles are another great way to give rooms and furniture pieces character and personality. Moroccan-style ‘Zellige’ tiles with irregular edges and tonal variations have been popular for the last few years. Now in 2026, you’ll see them being paired with tiles with decorative motifs in a technique called ‘pattern splicing’. To make this trend work, composition is key! First pick your pattern tile and then find something within the same tonal range for your ‘solid’. This is a great technique if you want to bring attention to a specific area of a room like a kitchen range or inclosed shower as it adds an unexpected pop of character without being to overwhelming.
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Credit: Fen Living
Hanging Textile Art & Tapestries
Just to be clear, I am not talking about bohemian macrame from a few years ago, I am talking about the use of vintage tapestries depicting landscapes and scenes, and artwork that incorporate textile materials. I have seen both designers and DIY YouTubers use hanging textile art and tapestries (many sourced second hand) in projects and their homes as a way to add warmth and character. A budget friendly way to incorporate this trend into your home is by stretching a vintage scarf or beautiful fabric over a frame.
Curved Ironwork
In 2026 you can expect to see more ironwork coming into play in lamp stands, balusters on a staircase, and in furniture as designers return to using classic materials with longevity over the ‘matte black finishes’ that have dominated in recent years. These ‘living finishes’ age over time but unlike the old, heavy ornate scrolls of the early 2000’s you can expect slimmer profiles, and more simpler, curved profiles.
Source: Pinterest
Fringe, Piping, Embroidery, Oh My!
One of my favourite trends of 2026 is the use of fringe, piping, trim, and embroidery to add a touch of luxury and point of interest to a piece of furniture, decor or even window treatments. A plain white napkin can be easily elevated with a monogram addition. A accent chair can really pop with contrast piping. Drapes with fringe detail can take them from ready-made to feeling custom-made! It’s playful, it’s tactile and it’s a great way to make your home feel bespoke.
Animal Accents
The use of animal prints have been popular in fashion over the past few years (especially with last year’s ‘cowboy’ trend) so there should be no surprise that it has now trickled down to interiors, but let this be a warning to use it sparingly. Although seen as an easy way to add personality to a room, it can be overpowering if not executed well. Slow and steady is the way to go as this trend (in my opinion) won’t have longevity. I would stick to pillows and smaller pieces as a way to incorporate it into a space without breaking the bank. That way if you get sick of it a year from now, you won’t cry about it.
Dramatic drapery used at the entrance of a wedding venue - Source Pinterest
Dramatic Drapery
There is no denying the dramatic atmosphere a little drapery can add to any space. Trend setters and designers have been utilizing this technique to design atmosphere that envelope their guests for big events and parties. Now people want to bring those romantic vibe in their homes. From bed canopies to sun shades, dramatic drapery can be incorporated in many (and more practical) ways. I recently did a master bedroom refresh in which I layered embroidered Romans with floor to ceiling curtains to give my large bay window a cozy, elegant feeling. I also suspect I’ll be adding some sort of canopy to our upcoming backyard transformation. The possibilities for this trend are truly endless.
So there you have it! Ten 2026 interior design trends that are on the rise!
If you are curious to see how the rest of my home renovations turned out and what interior design trends I am incorporating into my Toronto Victorian home, you can subscribe to my Instagram and YouTube channel! If you think this list is missing any big 2026 design trends or you are obsessed with anything I shared above, feel free to let me know in the comments below!
Until next time,
- Soheila
