The way we design our homes is shifting. We're moving away from rigid, untouchable spaces and embracing interiors that feel warm, authentic, and full of life. The coming year is all about creating rooms that tell your story, blending comfort with curated style. Looking ahead to 2026, the biggest trends aren’t about overhauling your entire house, but about making intentional choices that bring personality and ease into your everyday life.
This Curious guide will walk you through the top interior design trends for 2026. We’ll explore how you can use these ideas to craft a space that is not only stylish but also deeply personal and inviting. From nature-inspired colours to daring ceiling choices, get ready to be inspired.
Earthy Tones: Bringing Nature Indoors
The era of cool greys and stark whites is making way for a warmer, more grounded palette. In 2026, earthy tones are taking centre stage, creating spaces that feel both cosy and sophisticated. Think of colours drawn directly from the natural world: rich terracotta, deep moss green, warm ochre, and soft clay. These hues provide a soothing backdrop that pairs beautifully with organic materials.
This trend is incredibly versatile. You can go all-in by painting your walls in a warm caramel or olive green to create an immersive, comforting atmosphere. If that feels like too much of a commitment, introduce these colours through textiles like cushions, throws, or a new rug. The goal is to build a scheme that feels connected to the outdoors, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Wallpaper: Fizz Supreme- Onyx.
A Touch of Earthy Vibrancy
For those who love colour, this trend also has a bolder side. Designers are using saturated versions of these earthy hues to add energy and visual interest. A rich, rusty red accent wall or kitchen cabinetry painted in a deep forest green can make a powerful statement while still feeling grounded and welcoming. It’s the perfect way to balance warmth with a touch of drama.
Cushion: Tiana- Antique
Animal Prints: A Sophisticated Comeback
Forget the loud, brash animal prints of decades past. In 2026, patterns like leopard and zebra are making a chic and refined return. Used thoughtfully, they act as a "new neutral," adding a layer of texture and a hint of playful elegance to any room. This trend is less about making a wild statement and more about adding a touch of daring personality.
Wallpaper: Fierce Bloom- Nectar, Fabric: Wild Whispers- Savannah
The key is moderation. Instead of a full-on feature wall, consider introducing an animal print through a stylish rug, a set of accent cushions on your sofa, or an upholstered ottoman. These patterns work wonderfully in otherwise neutral schemes, providing a focal point without overwhelming the space. Pair them with rich textures like leather, boucle, or linen to create a look that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Cushion: Wild Whispers- Grassland
Statement Ceilings: Look Up!
For too long, ceilings have been the forgotten "fifth wall" in our homes. That’s all changing in 2026. Designers are increasingly treating ceilings as a canvas for creativity, transforming them into stunning design features. This trend encourages you to think beyond plain white and consider how your ceiling can add depth, dimension, and character to a room.
Wallpaper: Opium Blush- Winter
A popular approach is to use a high-gloss, lacquered finish. This not only adds a touch of glamour but also reflects light around the room, making it feel brighter and more spacious—a brilliant trick for smaller spaces. Another option is to paint the ceiling in a deep, saturated colour. Imagine a living room with a deep navy or an earthy terracotta ceiling; it creates a dramatic, cocooning effect that feels incredibly luxurious.
Wallpaper: Opium Blush- Summer
Warm Minimalism: Soft, Simple, and Inviting
Minimalism isn’t going away, but it is evolving into something softer and more approachable. Warm minimalism swaps cold austerity for a more human touch. It focuses on clean lines and uncluttered spaces but layers in tactile materials, gentle curves, and subtle colour variations to create a sense of comfort and serenity.
Curved furniture is a cornerstone of this trend. Sofas with soft, rounded edges, circular coffee tables, and arched doorways help to break up harsh lines and promote a sense of flow. Combine these forms with a palette of warm neutrals and plenty of texture—think wool, unfinished wood, and soft linen. The result is a space that feels calm and considered, yet anything but cold.
Cushion: Electric Lagoon- Mist
Refined Layering: The Art of the Mix
The days of perfectly matched furniture sets are behind us. The new approach is all about refined layering—the intentional mixing of textures, patterns, and styles to create a space that feels collected and personal. This trend celebrates individuality and the beauty of items that have a story.
This look is about creating harmony rather than uniformity. You might place a vintage rug under a modern sofa, drape a chunky knit throw over a sleek leather armchair, or create a gallery wall with a mix of contemporary art and antique finds. By layering different elements, you build a rich, multi-dimensional space that reflects your unique taste and experiences.
Fabric: Liberatzion- Malachite
Natural Materials: Honest and Timeless
There is a growing appreciation for materials that are authentic, sustainable, and built to last. In 2026, natural materials like wood, stone, rattan, and handcrafted ceramics will be more popular than ever. These elements bring tactile warmth and a sense of character to our homes, connecting us to the craft and history behind them.
Look for furniture made from solid wood with visible grain, stone countertops with natural veining, and handmade pottery that shows the touch of its maker. These materials not only look beautiful but also age gracefully, developing a unique patina over time. Embracing natural materials is a move away from mass-produced uniformity and towards pieces that feel special and enduring.
Cushion: Liberatzion- Tourmaline
Bold Colours: Intentional and Impactful
While earthy neutrals provide the foundation for many 2026 interiors, bold colour still has a crucial role to play. The difference is that it’s being used with more intention and purpose. Instead of splashing bright colours everywhere, designers are using them to create striking focal points and add personality to specific areas.
Wallpaper: Dragonfly Swarm- Sage
Expect to see deep blues and teals used in bedrooms and home offices to create spaces that are both calming and impactful. Rich reds, berry tones, and burgundies are perfect for adding a touch of drama to a dining room or living area. Even dark colours like warm black and inky green are being used on cabinetry and accent walls to add depth and sophistication without making a room feel heavy.
Cushion: Zellandine- Noir
Creating a Home That’s Truly Yours
Ultimately, the interior design trends of 2026 are about one thing: creating a home that feels good to live in. It’s about finding the right balance between comfort, personality, and timeless style. Whether you’re drawn to the calming influence of earthy tones or the sophisticated edge of animal prints, these trends offer a wealth of inspiration for making your space a true reflection of you.
Don’t feel pressured to adopt every trend. Instead, choose the ideas that resonate with you and think about how you can incorporate them into your home. Whether you’re embarking on a full renovation or simply refreshing a room, let these trends empower you to create a home that is welcoming, personal, and beautiful.