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.
- 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
Hi Annie
I almost used that same Heidi Callier photo in my post! I think wicker is so timeless, and it adds textural interest in almost any room! I am glad you mentioned the unstyled bookcase look, Great roundup!
“So much more coziness, more color, and a sense of rooms being truly lived in.” You definitely hit the nail on the head with that statement, Annie. And I am happy about it.
Hi Annie, agree with you on all counts here! Grandma sofas are so comfy and inviting and are really becoming popular these days. Love the bookshelf idea too. My MIL used to have her bookshelves packed with interesting things, books, travel momentos, picture frames, I was always drawn to them. It’s great to connect with you guys again on our blogs with these design trends posts, I always enjoy them!
Annie, So many good things here! You find the coolest places. I love all these trends. We need coziness right now. You can see how we are trending towards that.
Fun post!
Yes! Kim, you are right, coziness and a whole lot of love and compassion! xx
Love this. Do you have any sources for just wicker lamp shades (like in number 3)? I have a lamp that needs that kind of short wide lamp shade. I don’t need an $800 lamp. :/
Hi Marie, I did a little searching and found some at Pottery Barn. Available in two sizes. Here’s a link:
https://go.shopmy.us/p-41165243
Some of these trends are really nice. If you’re bringing in vintage lighting, it’s worth updating the wiring and switch even if it “works.” Makes it feel like a new piece without losing the character. Old wiring can be a fire hazard.
These 2026 interior design trends are gorgeous! I love the shift toward warmer, more lived-in spaces. For anyone updating their living room to match these trends, this guide on choosing the right furniture set is a great starting point: https://billsmattressandfurniture.com/how-to-choose-the-best-living-room-furniture-set/
Such a comprehensive look at 2026 design trends! I especially love the move toward warmer tones and natural materials. For anyone looking to update their living room furniture to match these trends, this guide has some excellent tips: https://billsmattressandfurniture.com/how-to-choose-the-best-living-room-furniture-set/