Interior Trends in 2026

As an interior designer, I am not a big fan of following trends. I believe that interiors should be timeless and endure beyond what media and trends dictate. And since home décor and design are personal choices, trends don’t necessarily work for everyone. Minimalist or maximalist, traditionalist or modernist – there is no judgement. Instead, I will walk you through the interior styles I believe will be most popular in 2026.

Finishes – “The Neutral Nickel”

For a while, tapware and finishes featured plenty of copper and brushed brass, and while it still looks great in spaces such as farmhouse designs and other classic interiors, particularly rustic interiors, I have long promoted the use of nickel, which now seems to be on the rise. Nickel is a warm silver that blends well with other metals, making it versatile. It also has an “old world” feel, with a more robust look that works well in high-end homes.

We will see a return to silver accessories in 2026, with nickel, chrome and silver-plated items taking centre stage again. As each home has to remain individual and reflect the owners' taste, do not ditch the gold and brass if you like it. Mixing metals, when done skilfully, ensures your home stays up to date as trends come and go.

Since the ban on silica on benchtops, natural stone and porcelain benchtops and vanities have had their moment to shine. While natural stone can be challenging to keep within a budget and maintain durability, there are some great choices. Quartzite is an underrated stone, versatile and stunning. There are also some very good porcelain slabs that replicate the look of natural stone.

Colours - “Paint it white but do it right!” 

Bright whites are definitely out in 2026. At least in timeless classic designs. There are many fabulous, creamier and warmer whites that make for beautiful backdrops.

Warm tones in wood, such as oak and walnut, are making a comeback. This also relates to paint colours.   For a while, the trend has favoured lighter floors, in both townhomes and larger luxury homes, with a stronger “Scandi-feel”. I wouldn’t disregard the lighter floors, however, as a warmer overall feel in a room can be created with paint, large area rugs, and accessories.

Light neutrals will always be in, and for a long time, we have been accustomed to all-beige interiors. I don’t think this will change drastically, however. Like the floor trend, I predict that darker wall colours will be used more in 2026, particularly in rooms where you want to highlight furniture and make it pop. Think a moss-green wall with an accent colour, or a coffee-brown wall with creamy whites.  Having said that, I believe that darker neutrals are the way to go. Soft greens and soft browns go well with a natural white. Whilst I do like colour, this year will be about adding more warmth to a still quite neutral colour scheme.

Textures and Patterns

Good-quality textile accessories, such as cashmere throws or robust linen and wool, will dominate this year – and frankly, should be a constant in your home. Durable textile materials, rather than easily pilling materials, are recommended for sofas and armchairs. Layering different textiles and patterns works well and will add life to an otherwise monochrome design.

Furniture – Think Long Term

As the world moves towards a sustainable mindset, thrifting has become increasingly popular. Vintage and antiques will always find their way into a home, whether you opt for an eclectic, modern or classic interior. Do good for the planet and choose your local op shop or rummage through the markets for great timeless pieces.

I hope that we will see more classic furniture suppliers taking space in the Australian market. I have said it many times, a good, well-designed classic piece is well worth investing in.

Overall, I hope that timelessness will replace short-lived trends, not only for sustainability but also to ensure design stability, improving what we have rather than reinventing the wheel.

Architeria Interiors specialises in timeless, classic designs and has designed the interiors of some of Melbourne’s most iconic homes.

Kate Gawi

Creative Director and Interior Designer

Architeria Architects