Interior Design Trends I Want to See in 2026
Every year brings a new list of “design trends”, and if you’ve been around long enough, you know most of them are recycled ideas in slightly different packaging. Rather than regurgitating what the industry says is “in”, I thought I’d share my trends for 2026. These are the design ideas I’ll be embracing with my clients this year - the things I’d genuinely love to see more of in our homes.
Warmth, natural colour, bold stones and handmade touches - the real heroes of 2026 interiors.
Playful Tile Patterns
Tiles don’t need to sit quietly in the background. In 2026, I’m leaning into checkerboards, diagonal layouts, mixed sizes, and colour-blocked walls. Tiles can add a sense of fun and artistry, whether it’s a kitchen splashback that doubles as a statement wall or a bathroom floor that feels like a graphic rug underfoot.
Coloured Cabinetry (in Deep, Saturated Tones)
White kitchens will always have their place, but this year I want to see more cabinetry with confidence. Think olive greens, burgundies and burnt orange. Deep, saturated tones ground a space and give joinery the presence it deserves - especially when paired with natural stone or warm timbers.
Bold Natural Stones
Veins, fossils, texture, movement - let’s celebrate them. I’m all for stone with personality in 2026. Quartzites, travertines, richly veined marbles, even onyx if you’re feeling adventurous. Benchtops, splashbacks, side tables - natural stone deserves to be a feature, not something safe!
Layered Lighting
If I could ban blanket grids of downlights, I would. Good lighting is layered lighting: task lighting for function, wall sconces for mood, pendants for sculptural impact, and concealed LED strips for that soft glow. Lighting should adapt to how you live in a room, not give you a headache.
Curves with Purpose
Curves aren’t ground breaking anymore, but they can still be brilliant when done thoughtfully. Rounded island ends, arched shelving, curved banquettes - used sparingly, they soften a space and create flow without tipping into gimmick territory.
Sustainability that’s Tangible
Buzzwords are out, action is in. I’m more interested in using Australian-made tiles and timbers, reconstituted stones, recycled materials, and finishes that age well. It’s about creating homes that last decades, not just until the next Instagram trend cycle.
Mixed Metals and Unexpected Details
Matchy matchy finishes feel showroom perfect but soulless. This year, I’m all for combining mixed metals, think bronze with antique brass, or blackened steel with lacquer. Add in a ceramic handle or a handmade light fitting, and suddenly a space feels personal, layered, and lived-in.
Personal Display Moments
Cabinetry doesn’t just need to hide things away, it can also showcase the things you love. Built-in shelving for books, ceramics, plants, or art turns joinery into a story about you, not just storage.
Texture Beyond Fabric
We all know linen isn’t going anywhere (the jury’s out on boucle), but let’s widen the net. Texture can come through stone, handmade tiles, timbers with grain, limewash walls, or even metal finishes. Spaces that invite you to touch, not just look, always feel more grounded.
Homes that Actually Work
The real trend of 2026? Function. Hardworking laundries, family kitchens that can handle entertaining and weekday chaos. Less show-home perfection, more spaces that adapt to the messy, beautiful reality of daily life.
Final Thoughts
2026 interiors are about personality, play, and practicality. Bold, layered, sustainable homes that reflect the people who live in them - not what a catalogue says they should look like.
If you’re ready to create a home that feels like you (and not like everyone else’s Pinterest board), I’d love to help. Get in touch here and let’s make it happen.
We’ll handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your home! See also our custom joinery design and interior design services.