Craft, Colour & Character Will Define our Homes in 2026

This year interior design will be shifting in quietly radical ways. Rather than chasing fleeting trends or overly polished perfection, the luxury homes of tomorrow are becoming more expressive, more layered and personal. There will be a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage and interiors that feel collected rather than styled. From rich textures and nuanced colour palettes to time-honoured techniques, here are some of the key design movements emerging now, and how to refresh your home in a way that feels both contemporary and enduring.

Careful Craftsmanship

A move away from slick, mass-produced finishes is underway. In 2026, authenticity will take centre stage, with a growing desire for originality and tactility. Subtle imperfections will be celebrated, especially within textiles and surface finishes.

Traditional techniques such as hand-block printing, handloom weaving and artisanal embroidery will become prized not just for their beauty, but for the stories they carry. These are pieces that invite conversation; fabrics and finishes with provenance, history and meaning. Investing in craftsmanship will feel less like decoration and more like stewardship, honouring skills passed down through generations and choosing materials designed to last well beyond a single season.

Reconsider the Bland Colour Scheme

Neutral no longer means safe or subdued. In 2026, colour returns with confidence, but in a way that feels considered rather than overwhelming. Expect to see deeper reds, softened blues with warm undertones, muted plums and earthy, mineral-based hues taking the place of cool greys and stark whites.

The “new neutrals” are richer, warmer and far more nuanced. Think clay, olive and chalky blush tones that bring depth and atmosphere to a space. These palettes create rooms that feel cocooning and emotionally resonant, offering drama without sacrificing elegance. Colour will be used to anchor a space, enhancing architectural detail and creating a sense of intimacy and character.

Time-Worn Interiors

Perfectly curated, showroom-style homes are giving way to interiors that feel lived-in, layered and lovingly assembled over time. Spaces that embrace a degree of imperfection, whether through gently faded textiles or time-worn antiques, will increasingly dominate both interiors and social media.

There’s a growing appetite for homes that tell a story: objects collected over years, inherited pieces sitting comfortably alongside contemporary design, and rooms that evolve organically. While these spaces remain thoughtfully designed, rigid rules and overly structured layouts are softened in favour of charm, individuality and a sense of ease. Original architectural features are preserved and celebrated, reinforcing a broader return to quality, longevity and design that truly endures.

Texture Through Textiles

Textiles will play a defining role in shaping interiors of 2026. Even the simplest woven fabrics; whether antique or modern, will be elevated as decorative statements in their own right. We’ll see textiles used more creatively: as wall hangings, curtains, headboards, upholstery and layered soft furnishings that add warmth and depth.

Rich materials such as silk velvets, damasks, brocades and tactile bouclés will be favoured for their ability to bring character and sensory richness to a room. Texture becomes as important as colour, creating interiors that feel inviting, nuanced and deeply comforting. These layered fabrics not only enhance visual interest but also contribute to the emotional warmth of a space.