5 Home Design Trends That Will Take Shape in 2026

Interiors are shifting towards comfort, personality, and sensory richness. From cosy retreats to playful expressions, designers are moving away from one-size-fits-all minimalism and embracing spaces that feel layered, personal, and emotionally engaging. As we look ahead to 2026, homes are no longer designed simply to impress, they are designed to support how we live, rest, and connect. 

Below, Roberta Cirstea, Interior Designer at CR Group explores five key trends shaping how interiors will evolve in the year ahead.

Layered and luxurious spaces

    In 2026, homes will prioritise depth, softness, and a sense of indulgence. The clean, pared-back interiors of the past are giving way to rooms rich with texture and warmth. Layering is key, think plush rugs underfoot, upholstered furniture in bouclé or velvet, and generously styled beds with quilted throws and tonal cushions. Colour palettes lean towards earthy neutrals, warm creams, and muted jewel tones, creating an enveloping atmosphere. These interiors feel intentionally lived-in, offering comfort without sacrificing style, a reflection of our desire for spaces that restore as much as they impress.

    Photo by D5 Render on Unsplash

    Scandi / Mid-century 2.0

    Scandinavian and mid-century modern design continue to influence interiors, but in a softer, more expressive form. This updated approach blends clean lines with organic shapes, warmer woods, and tactile finishes. Curved sofas, rounded tables, and sculptural lighting soften the structure of classic mid-century design, while Scandinavian functionality keeps spaces practical and uncluttered. Sustainability plays a larger role too, with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and timeless pieces. The result is interiors that feel calm, balanced, and modern, designed for longevity rather than trends alone.

    Modern Twee

    Modern Twee brings playfulness back into the home, balancing charm with sophistication. Pastel tones, scalloped edges, ruffled bedding, and delicate floral patterns are reimagined through a contemporary lens. Rather than feeling overly decorative, these elements are paired with clean silhouettes, modern materials, and thoughtful styling. This trend celebrates personality and nostalgia without tipping into kitsch, making it ideal for bedrooms, dressing rooms, or creative spaces. In 2026, interiors are increasingly about self-expression, and Modern Twee offers a joyful, character-led way to do just that.

    Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash

    Tactile and textured interiors

    Design in 2026 is as much about how a space feels as how it looks. Tactile interiors emphasise layered materials such as linen, wool, raw timber, stone, and plastered walls to add depth and visual interest. Neutral colour palettes allow texture to take centre stage, while subtle contrasts prevent spaces from feeling flat. Biophilic details, including natural light, indoor plants, and organic materials, enhance the sensory experience and promote wellbeing. These interiors encourage slower living, transforming homes into multi-sensory sanctuaries.

    Nature-connected design

    As wellbeing remains central to modern living, nature-connected design continues to gain momentum. Organic shapes, earthy textures, and natural materials help create a sense of grounding and balance within the home. Large windows, soft natural light, and indoor greenery blur the boundaries between inside and out. This approach fosters calm, supports mental health, and reflects a growing desire to reconnect with nature in everyday life. In 2026, homes will increasingly feel like restorative retreats, spaces designed to nurture both body and mind.

    As these trends take shape in 2026, one thing is clear, the future of home design is deeply personal. Interiors are no longer about following rigid rules or fleeting aesthetics, but about creating spaces that feel meaningful, comforting, and reflective of how we truly live. Whether through layered textures, playful details, or a stronger connection to nature, the homes of the year ahead will prioritise emotion, wellbeing, and individuality, proving that good design is not just seen, but felt.

    Top photo by Taitopia Render on Unsplash

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