Editor's Note
This editor’s note highlights the key facts and market implications behind “Designers Are Calling It: These Interior Design “, with emphasis on sourcing, product fit, fabrication, logistics, or buyer impact.
We're in for just as much excitement on the design front in 2026. Some design trends to look out for? Pros are thrilled about terracotta tiles making a comeback, the use of statement mirrors to add dimension to a room, and decorative flooring with personality.
Terracotta Tiles
“Terracotta tile and other earthy, natural materials are making a strong comeback for 2026. Homeowners are gravitating toward a warmer, cozier aesthetic, and terracotta offers that timeless, lived-in feel. Whether you choose authentic terracotta or a porcelain lookalike, today’s options come in fresh shapes and new patterns, lending a modern twist to a classic material that has been used for centuries.”
“In 2026, we’ll say goodbye to stark, impersonal interiors. The all-white look has had its moment, but homeowners are now craving depth, warmth, and personality—a shift we’ve seen evolving in the last couple years. Expect to see richer, more tactile finishes, patterns, and layering: beautifully stained woods, hand-crafted tiles, rich fabrics, and patinated hardware that bring soul to a space.”
Statement Stone
“Natural stone has long been a staple in design, but in 2026, I see a focus on slabs with bold, organic movement, featuring veining and patterns that feel almost sculptural. These surfaces act as both functional materials and artistic statements, bringing drama and warmth to kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. I expect this trend to gain popularity because homeowners are craving unique, one-of-a-kind textures that feel authentic and tactile, helping spaces feel grounded while still making a statement.”
“Neutrals will always be in our back pocket, but deeper hues are feeling more luxurious and timeless—especially in formal spaces. Colors like cranberry red, sapphire blue, and emerald green ground a room and pair beautifully with layered materials like stone, wood, and brass. Clients are gravitating toward jewel tones in living rooms, dining rooms, and powder rooms to create a sense of mood and sophistication–a subtle departure from the rest of the home, yet still cohesive.”
“In 2026, I expect to see a continued return to natural materials that showcase honest texture and depth. Clients are gravitating toward stone with movement, warm woods, and hand finished metals, paired with architectural details that feel purposeful rather than decorative. There is a growing desire for interiors that feel grounded, sensory rich, and connected to their surroundings.”
As the year comes to an end, we couldn't help but ask interior designers about the top trends that will dominate homes in 2026. We've seen it all in 2025—color drenching, checkered flooring, wood tones, you name it.
Use the roundup of trends below as inspiration to upgrade just about any space in your home. It can be as simple as a bedroom refresh or a complete kitchen makeover that gives you the freedom to have fun blending a few trends with your personal design style.
Warmth and Personality
Cortney Bishop, Cortney Bishop Design
Fluted and Reeded Wood Details
“I’m loving the look of fluted and reeded wood in kitchens and beyond. This fresh yet timeless architectural detail works on islands, cabinets, wall panels, and even furniture pieces. There’s an elevated sense of craftsmanship that gives a basic silhouette an unexpected artistry.”
Gil Walsh, Gil Walsh Interiors
Moody Color Palettes
“For 2026, I’m expecting color palettes to shift into richer, moodier territory. Saturated maroons and burgundies and other jewel tones are poised to make a big comeback, and instead of stark neutrals, olive-gray hues will lend a grounding feel that’s earthy and soft.”
Jennifer Sissom, Ryan Street Interiors
Sculptural Lighting
“Lighting is no longer just functional–it’s becoming an art piece in a space. Sculptural fixtures cast light in ways that minimalist lighting can’t. Clients are wanting to invest in expressive pieces–a statement ceiling fixture or sculpture sconce that draws the eye when on or off.”
Nicole Hirsch, Nicole Hirsch Interiors
Unique Ornamentation
“There’s a quiet return to ornamentation—subtle curves, tailored trims, and architectural detail that adds drama without overwhelming a space. Design is becoming more emotional. Less about what’s ‘in’ and more about what feels lived-in, personal, and lasting.”
Stephanie Martin, Stephanie Martin Interior Design
Brown Hues
“Brown is back in a big way, and it works beautifully across styles—from midcentury to traditional. A mentor once told me that you should only choose browns if they looked like something you would eat, and honestly, that still holds true!”
Mel Bean, Mel Bean Interiors
Mirrors As Art
“Mirrors are no longer just functional–they’re becoming a statement in a space. Oversized, sculptural, and uniquely framed mirrors bring depth, reflect light, and act as a focal point in a way standard mirrors can’t. We like to use a statement mirror in living, dining, and powder rooms to add an extra dimensional element to the space.”
Source: Read the original article | Published: December 28, 2025