Interior design trends in 2026 are returning to a pastiche of historical styles, mixing Victorian fringes with Art Deco woodwork and ’70s carpets. Designers predict a shift toward authenticity, using rich colors and varied textures to create layered living spaces. This year, homes will move away from simple neutrals toward more complex, individualized environments.
Kitchens with a Warm, Statement Style
Kitchens in 2026 will focus on warmth and texture. Alice Penna-Benn, founder of Studio Penna, notes that freestanding furniture will make a stronger statement, particularly as kitchen islands. She expects detailed island legs to become a focal point for designers. This focus on the island often complements a renewed interest in benchtop materials.
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The recent ban on engineered stone has pushed designers to consider alternatives. Penna-Benn is specifying stainless steel and terrazzo for clients. She also predicts that quartzite may eventually replace marble due to its better performance under stress. Other materials making a comeback include square-tiled benchtops and slimline profiles, such as a 20-millimetre edge, which help balance the energy of layered materials.
Texture and individuality are also driving kitchen design. Homeowners are using freestanding furniture for flexibility. Splashbacks and hardware are increasingly used to showcase personal style, moving away from generic fittings.
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Living Rooms and Bedrooms: Drama and Colour
After a season of organic, neutral decor, living rooms are becoming more playful. Rich tones, theatrical decor, and sculptural furniture are taking over. Fringing and tassels are making a return to heighten the mood of these spaces. One major trend driving this change is “colour drenching.” This method involves using the same hue across walls, ceilings, rugs, curtains, and even furniture. According to a report by Zillow, searches for this technique rose by 149 per cent year-on-year, suggesting it will become standard in Australia.
Emma Blomfield of EB Studio observes that walls and joinery are now finished in glossy or lacquered colors. “We haven’t done that in a long time; matte and satin ruled for years,” she says. For those hesitant to fully commit to lacquer, Blomfield suggests experimenting with a high-gloss side table or buffet to introduce the effect without a full renovation.
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Bedrooms are also adopting this drama. Clients often look to luxury hotels for inspiration, wanting their spaces designed to the millimetre. Deep, jewel-toned shades are popular for their cossetting effect. Built-in timber bedheads are gaining traction, often featuring storage, shelving, and integrated wall lights. When bedside tables are added, they tend to be artful, crafted with burled walnut, leather upholstery, or lacquered finishes.
Bathrooms and Outdoor Rooms
Custom-made elements are considered the pinnacle of luxury in bathrooms. This includes cleverly concealed furniture
