The year is barely half over, but already trendwatchers have polished their crystal balls and are peering into the future to predict what interior design will look like in 2026. Whether their guesses are accurate or way off base, it’s fun to see what people in the design biz think we’ll see next year. Here are the most common predictions we’ve seen so far…

SMART TECHNOLOGY

Image: Pixabay

Our homes are becoming smarter every year and 2026 should be no different. Smart thermostats, lighting, and appliances are becoming the standard—you probably already have one or more of these already. What that looks like on the design front is furniture with integrated charging stations and a designated place for your devices baked into a room’s design. Because while it’s great that you can ask your voice-controlled device where the heck your phone or tablet is, it’s even better when you don’t have to.

SUSTAINABILITY

Image: BambooFurnitureTalk.com

Sustainability has many faces, but some of the most popular sustainable design options are:

• Using renewable resources like bamboo and cork for floors and furnishings
• Recycled materials, such as metal, reclaimed wood, and the like
• Upcycled furnishings—because keeping things out of landfills is helpful
• Sustainable Sourcing: making sure materials are sourced from responsible suppliers to minimize environmental impact.

MINIMALISM

Image: DecorKingdoms.com

Sometimes less is more—but minimalism doesn’t have to mean cold and empty. The new wave of minimalist design welcomes color, texture, and personal touches to make your space look sensationally spare. Key to this design style is keeping it simple with pieces that are both stylish and practical.

MAXIMALISM

Image: Steph Wilson

On the other hand, sometimes more is more. If deep, rich colors and a vibe that murmurs luxury is what you crave, maximalism is just what the design doctor ordered. Remember our recent post on color drenching? This is the perfect style to use it. The key to this look is to keep all those patterns, colors, and mixed styles of furnishings and décor balanced and organized. Otherwise, your ‘more’ might turn into ‘too much.’

PERSONALIZATION

Image: Noland Live, Pexels

One of our favorite trends for 2026 is the freedom to make your home distinctly “yours.” Personalize your space with things you have a history with—your collections of whatever, something you picked up on a trip or inherited from a loved one or got an amazing deal on at a yard sale. Consider a wall color that reminds you of a favorite memory. Your home is your sanctuary. Fill it with things that make you smile and/or bring you peace.

Will these really be the 2026 design trends? What do you think?