Interior design trends for 2026: timeless, grounded and rich in character
As we look ahead to 2026, interior design is moving towards more thoughtful, enduring aesthetics.
Rather than chasing fleeting trends, the focus is on spaces that feel calm and considered, prioritising high quality materials and unique touches that are deeply personal.
Here we explore the key design directions for 2026, from Pantone’s Colour of the Year to the resurgence of rich wood tones and heritage influences.
A blank canvas: Pantone’s Colour of the Year
Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2026 is PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a soft, airy white that Pantone describes as “A whisper of tranquillity and peace in a noisy world”.
This timeless white is a true blank canvas and reflects a desire for calm and simplicity – bringing light and clarity to interior spaces.
Unlike crisp whites of the past, this nuanced tone feels warm and welcoming, making it ideal for cabinetry, walls and ceilings alike. It allows architectural details, textures and materials to shine, while also providing a backdrop for accent colours and natural finishes.
Charcoal and black: a confident design statement
If you’re looking to introduce depth and drama, charcoal or true black finishes make a strong statement.
Smart and effortlessly sophisticated, darker palettes are being used with confidence in kitchens and throughout both contemporary and traditional interior spaces.
Dark tones pair beautifully with brass or bronze toned hardware, as well as glass features, and they provide the perfect complement to soft whites such as Cloud Dancer.
Dark cabinetry and statement kitchen islands feel luxurious rather than heavy. The contrast brings balance; dark colours can feel grounding, whilst aged brass cabinetry handles and quartz countertops add warmth and refinement.
Green spaces: bringing nature indoors
The move towards more natural, calming interiors shows no sign of slowing.
Green continues to be one of the most influential colours of 2026, reflecting a collective desire to reconnect with nature within our homes.
From soft sage and olive tones to deeper forest greens, this palette works beautifully in kitchens, bedrooms and living areas. Combined with natural materials such as wood, stone and marble, green interiors promote a sense of balance and wellbeing.
Decorative panelling: creating texture and interest
Texture will play a vital role in adding depth and individuality to interior design in 2026 and decorative panelling is leading the way.
Fluted, reeded and sculptural panelled surfaces bring visual interest without overwhelming a space.
Used for kitchen islands, cabinetry, walls or even ceilings, panelling offers a refined way to introduce character and craftsmanship. These tactile details elevate minimalist designs and work equally well in contemporary and heritage-inspired homes, adding a layer of subtle luxury that feels personal and considered.
Home sanctuaries: spaces designed for wellbeing
Our homes are increasingly expected to achieve more for us – and 2026 interiors reflect this continued need with a focus on sanctuary spaces.
For example, calm, smart home offices are designed to enhance productivity without sacrificing style or atmosphere, incorporating soft colour palettes, clever storage and integrated technology.
Bathrooms, meanwhile, are embracing Scandi-inspired design, achieving relaxation through simplicity. The hallmarks of these designs are natural materials, muted tones, warm woods and uncluttered layouts.
Modern heritage: rich wood and true craftsmanship
One of the most compelling trends for 2026 is the rise of modern heritage interiors, where classic materials meet contemporary design. Rich wood tones are central to this movement, bringing warmth, depth and a sense of enduring style to kitchens and living spaces.
A perfect example is Stacey Dooley’s kitchen renovation, which champions dark wood cabinetry set against light stone worktops and soft, neutral walls. Rather than following more transient trends, the design focuses on quality materials and thoughtful contrasts. The result is a kitchen that feels timeless, characterful and deeply personal – it’s been labelled an ‘anti-trend’ choice, but it’s also a clear sign that wood-led interiors are firmly back in fashion.
Revival style: Art Deco and mid-century influences
Looking to the past for inspiration is another key theme for 2026. Art Deco and mid-century moderninfluences are making a confident return, reinterpreted for contemporary living.
Expect to see curved forms, geometric detailing, warm metallic accents and bold yet balanced colour combinations. These revival styles bring a sense of glamour and nostalgia, while still feeling fresh when paired with modern layouts and materials.
Whether through lighting, furniture or subtle architectural references, this trend adds personality and flair without feeling theatrical.
Read more about this mid-century inspired kitchen.
Looking ahead: quality and longevity
The interior design trends for 2026 have a clear thread running through them: thoughtful design that prioritises longevity, comfort and character. This year’s interiors are about creating homes that feel beautiful, but are designed to be lived in.
If you’d like to chat to us about your design goals for 2026, you’ll find lots to inspire you at our spacious and welcoming showroom, or please call us to book your design consultation.
