Design Trends for Interiors 2026

Image: Heidi Caillier

Today I am joining a few friends to talk about design trends in home decor. Lately, I’m noticing a real shift in the way we’re thinking about our homes. There’s so much more coziness, more color, and a sense of rooms being truly lived in.

Book Shelves are less styled, more functional.

Images from Pinterest

Bookshelves are filled with actual books, layered with collections gathered from travels and years of living. Maybe some kid art, or a bowl filled with shells, or matchbooks.

Cozy Dining Nooks

Images from left to right: 1. A Kind of Home // 2. Alice Grace England // 3. A Kind of Home

We’re also seeing a return to cozy dining nooks—small tables tucked into corners, eat-in kitchens that are just barely big enough for a table, and banquettes that make the most of every inch. These spaces may be modest in size, but they’re rich in comfort and charm, encouraging everyday meals to feel a little more special.

“Grandma” Sofas

Images left to right: 1. Heidi Caillier // 2. Nicola Harding & Co. // 3. Heidi Caillier

Even the furniture is softening. Those overstuffed, “grandma” sofas—patterned, comfortable, made for curling up rather than just looking good are finding their way back into our living rooms.

Sconces + Wicker Lamps and Shades

Images left to right: 1. Pooky Lights // 2. Ashe Leandro // 3. Alyson Morgan

Lighting, too, is becoming softer and more intentional. Lamps are taking the lead over overhead lighting, with wicker shades, raffia, and natural materials casting a warm, gentle glow. Paired with Edison bulbs, the light feels flattering and calm for more atmosphere than illumination.

Images left to right: 1. Pooky Lights // 2. Vivir Design // 3. Reserve Home

I love sconces with shades. They fill a hallway, a nook, or a room with just a little light that is so perfect.

Smaller rooms, lots of layers, and warm lighting.

Instead of wide-open, everything-in-one-room layouts, there’s a renewed appreciation for rooms that feel defined, warm, and purposeful.

Altogether, it feels like a return to comfort, and to homes that tell a story and truly wrap their arms around you. When I walk into my house at night, and the lights are perfectly warm and glowing, it feels like my house is embracing me. That’s the way I want it to feel when anyone walks into our home, day or night. I don’t think it’s a trend; it’s more about appreciating the little things and the beautiful moments that take place in our homes.

A few favorite wicker lamps & sconces + inspiring design books.

1. Como Petite Table Lamp // 2. Studio McGee Wicker Lamp // 3. Brookings Floor Lamp // 4. Larkspur Sconce // 5. Gunnar Table Lamp // 6. Como Gourd Table Lamp // 7. Ahrens Sconce // 8. Dora Table Lamp // 9. Flynn Table. Lamp // 10. Edison Bulb // 11. Edison Bulb // 12. Candelabra Bulbs // 13. Brigette Romanek Pearl Rattan Table Lamp

Books: If These Walls Could Talk // Storied Style // Memories of Home

Let’s see what these ladies have to say about home trends in 2026!

Cindy Hattersley

Classic Casual Home

Carla Aston Designed