The 5 Biggest Interior Design Trends of 2026 You’ll See Everywhere

Every year, the design world tries to crown the next big thing — and every year, some trends hit… and others completely miss the mark. As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is very clear: homes are moving away from sterile, overly curated spaces and back toward warmth, personality, and soul.

These are the five interior design trends I truly believe will define 2026 — not because they’re flashy, but because they feel lived-in, layered, and timeless.

1. Grandma Core (But Make It Cool)

Grandma core is officially having a renaissance — and no, it’s not your grandmother’s formal living room.

Think Kendall Jenner’s mountain house: cozy, collected, and deeply personal. This trend is all about mixing patterns, layering colors, and embracing a home that feels thoughtfully curated over time rather than styled in one shopping trip.

Florals with stripes. Plaids next to solids. Vintage-inspired textiles paired with modern silhouettes. The beauty of grandma core is that it celebrates imperfection — pieces don’t need to match, they just need to belong together.

This trend signals a shift toward homes that tell a story, where comfort and character take priority over trends that feel disposable.

2. 3D Wall Art & Layered Walls

Flat walls are officially out. In 2026, walls become a design feature — not an afterthought.

We’ve already seen the rise of plate walls, and that trend is only expanding. Expect to see tapestries, framed textiles, sculptural pieces, and even rugs used as wall decor. This creates dimension, texture, and visual interest that standard framed art just can’t replicate.

Layered walls also add a sense of history and warmth — especially in newer or builder-grade homes that can feel flat or characterless. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s depth.

If your walls feel empty or uninspired, this trend alone can completely transform a space.

3. Animal Print Is Back (And It’s Chic)

Animal print is officially reclaiming its place in high-end interiors — and when done correctly, it feels bold, classic, and elevated.

Leopard, zebra, cowhide, and subtle animal motifs are showing up in rugs, accent chairs, pillows, and even artwork. The key is intentional use. One or two animal-print elements can anchor a room and add contrast without overwhelming the space.

This trend works beautifully in neutral rooms, adding personality without relying on color alone. Think timeless glamour, not fast fashion.

4. Wood Is the Star of the Show

In 2026, wood is no longer just a supporting character — it’s the main event.

We’re seeing a huge move toward mixing wood tones, embracing natural finishes, and investing in statement wood furniture. Light woods paired with dark woods. Traditional pieces mixed with modern silhouettes. Nothing overly matched, everything intentional.

This trend adds warmth and grounding energy to a space, making homes feel more organic and less trend-driven. Wood brings balance, texture, and longevity — which is exactly where interior design is heading.

5. Earthy Gemstone Colors (Not Pantone’s Pick)

I’ll say it: Pantone’s Color of the Year was a miss.

What will soar in 2026 are earthy gemstone tones — rich, moody, and deeply livable. Chartreuse, burnt orange, deep blues, olive greens, and saturated neutrals are replacing washed-out beiges and overly safe palettes.

These colors feel grounded yet dramatic, bold yet timeless. They work beautifully layered with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen — and they photograph incredibly well, which doesn’t hurt.

This shift proves that color doesn’t have to be trendy to be impactful. It just needs to feel intentional.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one theme tying all of these trends together, it’s this: homes are becoming more personal again.

2026 design isn’t about perfection, rules, or what’s “in.” It’s about creating spaces that feel warm, layered, and reflective of the people who live there. These trends aren’t fleeting — they’re rooted in comfort, craftsmanship, and character.

If you’re decorating now, consider this your preview of what’s coming next — and what’s worth investing in for the long haul.