As we step into 2026, many of us are busy setting resolutions to hit the gym or eat healthier, but there’s a whole world of creativity buzzing among interior designers who are reimagining the spaces we call home. What if your living room could tell a story, or your kitchen became a gallery of unexpected textures? This year, the pros are shaking things up, and we’re here to spill the secrets—plus, we’ll tell you what to snag before these trends go mainstream.
Interior designers are the unsung heroes of making spaces feel alive, yet even they admit there’s always room for improvement. From daring color choices to unconventional materials, 2026 is all about breaking the mold. And here’s the part most people miss: these changes don’t have to be drastic to make a huge impact. Let’s dive into the seven decorating resolutions designers are swearing by this year.
1. Dare to Be Bold
Image credit: Tom Mannion. Design: Studio Hollond
Tired of playing it safe with neutrals? You’re not alone. Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley (https://gruvercooley.com/) is urging everyone to step out of their comfort zone in 2026. ‘After years of designing luxury homes, I’ve learned that the most unforgettable spaces are those that reflect personality and joy,’ she shares. It’s not just about slapping on bright colors—though that’s one way to go. It’s about choosing pieces that resonate with you, whether it’s a hand-marbled waste bin or a bronze tiger lumbar pillow. But here’s where it gets controversial: Does bold always mean bright? Cathleen argues no—it’s about trusting your instincts and letting your unique style shine.
Shop Now:
- Z Gallerie: Bronze Tiger Lumbar
- HAY: Antiquity Dinner Plate
- Inner Child: Hand-Marbled Scallop Waste Bin
2. Rethink Metal Finishes
Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin. Design: Hollie Bowden
Flat, predictable metal finishes? So last year. Sarah and Rebecca Goesling of Goesling Group (https://www.goeslinggroup.com/) are all about subverting expectations with etched brass, molten chrome, and reverse-knurled steel. ‘Even swapping out cabinet knobs can transform a space into a tactile masterpiece,’ they explain. But here’s the question: Is this trend too niche, or is it the next big thing in adding depth to your home?
Shop Now:
- ARHAUS: Wall Mount Antique Brass Dinner Bell
- Ferm Living: Agapé Wall Candle Sconces
- Zentique: Diggs Metal Table Vase
3. Warm Up with Wall Textiles
Image credit: Studio Alexandra
Tapestries and hanging rugs aren’t just for boho enthusiasts anymore. Franky Rousell of Jolie (https://wearejolie.com/) predicts they’ll be everywhere in 2026. ‘They add texture, soften acoustics, and create a layered look that’s both cozy and sophisticated,’ Franky says. And this is the part most people miss: Wall textiles can be just as impactful as traditional art, but often at a fraction of the cost.
Shop Now:
- Urban Outfitters: Palmera Fan Floating Headboard
- McGee & Co.: Hortensia Wall Tapestry
- The Salvaged Vessel: Hand Painted Abstract Textile Art
4. Experiment with Unexpected Color Pairings
Image credit: James McDonald
Annie Harrison of Fare Inc (https://fare-inc.com/) is tired of playing it safe with color palettes. ‘Why should red and green only shine in December?’ she asks. This year, she’s all about pairing satin periwinkle with velvet chocolate or matte tangerine with metallic moss. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are these combinations genius or just plain chaotic? Let’s debate in the comments.
Shop Now:
- Threshold: Velvet Contrast Fringe Dec Pillow
- Palais Lampshades: Thalassa Palm & Cinnamon Lampshade
- Anthropologie: Adele Martini Glasses
5. Upgrade Your Hardware
Image credit: Kensington Leverne. Design: De Rosee Sa.
It’s the simplest change with the biggest impact. Annie Harrison insists that updating your door knobs or cabinet handles can refresh an entire room. ‘It’s a small touch, but one you interact with daily,’ she notes. But here’s the question: Why do we keep putting this off when it’s so affordable and effective?
Shop Now:
- West Elm: Modernist Wood & Antique Brass Hardware
- AnthroHome: Odessa Jewelry Knobs
- Berenson: Iron Cabinet Handle
6. Embrace the Surreal
Image credit: Summerill & Bishop
In a world that feels increasingly uncertain, Sarah and Rebecca Goesling are leaning into surrealism. Think 1920s circus stripes, vegetal tones, and glass block accents. ‘It’s about embracing ambiguity,’ they say. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this trend too avant-garde for the average home, or is it the perfect antidote to cookie-cutter design?
Shop Now:
- Crate & Barrel: Cubey Linen Table Lamp
- Birch Lane: Jebb Upholstered Ottoman
- Zodax: Clam Shell Serving Dish
7. Edit Ruthlessly
Image credit: Sarah West Interiors
While some designers are going maximalist, others are stripping back. Philip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James (https://www.studiothomasjames.com/) believes less is more. ‘Removing clutter elevates what remains,’ he says. Christopher Boutlier of Christopher Boutlier Interiors (https://boutlier.com/) agrees: ‘It’s not about making your home feel empty, but about removing the noise.’ And this is the part most people miss: Editing doesn’t mean sacrificing personality—it means letting quality shine.
Shop Now:
- Casafield: Open Weave Wall Hanging Basket
- BELOVED: 20 Pair Shoe Storage Cabinet
- H&M Home: Foldable Storage Basket
So, which of these resolutions will you adopt in 2026? Are you team bold colors or team minimalist editing? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—and don’t forget to grab those must-have items before they sell out!
