The eight interior trends that you will see everywhere in 2026

2026 will be a defining year for design. While trends are still heavily influenced by social media, consumers are increasingly looking for more than just flashy aesthetics. Instead, the emphasis is on longevity, choosing spaces that stand the test of time and reflect a more meaningful, collected approach. Even trends that may ultimately prove fleeting are rooted in intention, soul and purpose.

Here are eight design trends we’ll see in 2026, according to interior designers and industry insiders.

Maximalism returns – but with meaning

After years of being dominated by simple, minimalist looks and Pinterest-curated aesthetics, maximalism is making a comeback in 2026, but this time with a more purposeful twist. According to Stephanie Hunt, founder and creative director of The Flairhunterthe trend now is about deliberately curating meaningful objects in living spaces rather than simply stacking more stuff in layers. “Maximalism is having a new moment, with an emphasis on special pieces and pops of really, really personal items. It’s the flair factor or ‘Quirk Quotient,’ if you will. Think: Grandma came to town and passed on her stuff. Turns out she was pretty cool after all.”

To make the look memorable, Hunt recommends layering art salon style, stacking patterns, putting together grouped collections of porcelain or ceramics and incorporating statement pieces, from vintage pillows to the occasional zebra-print chair. “Normal is boring… Memorable homes reflect the personality of the people who live there,” says the designer.

Hunt also encourages breaking with tradition: “Use unexpected objects as art… The excitement of the combination… rests the eyes and makes a room memorable.”

Sustainability becomes the standard

Sustainability has long been on the radar of conscious consumers, but in 2026 it will become increasingly mainstream. Andrew Haltom, Director of Customer Success at Carpets.comshows that sustainability remains a priority for consumers and designers alike, and that design choices are evolving accordingly.

“We are also proud of our sustainability initiatives, which include planting a tree for every rug sold.” says Haltom, pointing to the brand’s extensive collection of eco-friendly carpets made from recycled materials.

For brands today, aligning with consumer values ​​is no longer optional; it is truly a business necessity.

Function becomes a design priority

In the coming year, practical design will increasingly shape consumer decisions. Haltom points to washable rugs such as the Kamala and Theia collections as examples of products that combine performance with style: “Practical functionality… making washable rugs essential for busy households.”

Storage solutions are another growth category. From trendy shoe cabinets on TikTok Shop to multi-functional ottomans and pop-up coffee tables that double as work stations, furniture buyers want pieces that do more than just look good; they want functionality that fits both their space and their lifestyle.

Biophilic design evolves beyond walls

Plant walls once dominated the interior, but then faded away. As houseplants become increasingly popular, biophilic design is returning stronger and smarter.

“Biophilic design focuses on nature-infused spaces that connect people to the natural world…” Janine Weeks, founder and lead designer of Weeks of designtells me. But she notes that the trend is broader than green on the wall: it’s a holistic approach that includes clean air, circadian lighting and conscious material choices.

By 2026, biophilia will be less about showpiece installations and more about intentional connections with nature, from landscape art to nature-inspired color palettes.

The rise of slow decorating

In an era of rapid furniture turnover and following trends, slow decorating is gaining popularity as a thoughtful alternative. This approach emphasizes meaningful pieces that tell a story rather than immediate gratification.

“Interiors definitely deviate from generic restraint…” says Janette Mallory Janette Mallory Interiors. The reward, she explains, is sustainable design that is rooted in atmosphere and intention – not fads.

One of the benefits of this approach is that it creates a more designer look rather than trying to install and finish everything right away. There is a design behind it that goes far beyond trend cycles. “This evolution reinforces a belief that has guided my work for a long time: timeless design is not driven by trends, but by atmosphere, intention and the quiet confidence of materials and spaces that age beautifully.”

Antique and economical and chic fast furniture

Thrifting has evolved from fashion to full home furnishing strategies. For many buyers, vintage shopping delivers durability, quality and uniqueness that big boxes can’t match.

Why? According to Marissa Van Noy, entrepreneur and founder of Three golden cranesvintage pieces bring history and soul to a space: “These items carry history with them… They add soul to a space in a way that mass-produced items simply don’t.”

For Van Noy, the value is not only economic, it is also about putting together heritage-worthy decors.

Tapestries and textiles contribute to the story

Tapestries will reclaim wall space in 2026. Van Noy describes them as transformative, offering texture, craftsmanship and narrative depth: “The texture, the craftsmanship, the story that is woven into every thread…”

While original pieces can be expensive, the market now includes accessible vintage finds and dupes that make it easy to get the look in a more achievable way.

Tassel details are here to stay

By 2026, tassels will be everywhere, and for good reason. Van Noy notes that they are becoming increasingly common in furniture, lamps and curtains: “What makes them work so well is their versatility…”

Brushes introduce color, movement and sophistication without overwhelming the design, providing a subtle yet powerful detail in layered spaces.