Interior Design Trends for 2026

In the U.K. alone, the market size of the interior design industry is £1.5bn. Despite high competition, good interior designers are still in high demand, and that doesn't appear to be changing anytime soon. 

Such a career relies upon the most recent trends and, for interior design, this changes quite frequently. In this article, we’ll take a look at the interior design trends for 2025, and then look ahead to 2026.

A Quick Look Back: Interior Design Trends for 2025

In 2025, interior design leaned heavily toward creating balance between beauty and practicality. Natural materials and hybrid rooms were especially popular, reflecting a growing desire for homes that feel both grounded and adaptable. 

Wellness-focused interiors also emerged, showing that clients want their living spaces to support mental and physical health, not just aesthetics. These trends set the stage for what we will see continue to evolve in 2026.

Natural Materials

Sustainability was a key driver of 2025 design. Clients sought out wood, stone, clay, and linen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their durability and reduced environmental footprint. Designers found creative ways to showcase the natural imperfections of these materials, celebrating texture and authenticity rather than polished perfection.

The Rise of the Hybrid Room

The shift to flexible working meant that rooms often had to serve more than one purpose. Dining tables doubled as workstations, and living rooms were designed with video calls in mind. This trend encouraged multifunctional furniture and modular layouts that could adapt to changing needs throughout the day. Home Wellness Spaces Forget the home gym, the wellness room is in. Instead of a treadmill in the living room, expect a trend toward a dedicated wellness space. This is more than just a bike or treadmill. Clients want a space for intentional wellness activities such as meditation and yoga in addition to exercise. Designers should anticipate this change when it comes to client demands.

Interior Design Trends for 2026

As we move into 2026, interior design will continue to evolve with a strong focus on comfort, sustainability, and adaptability. Clients are seeking spaces that feel personal and engaging, with design elements that go beyond appearance to create a true sensory experience. 

Colors are becoming deeper and more layered, while furniture and layouts are expected to respond to the changing rhythms of daily life. The following trends highlight how designers can meet these shifting expectations and deliver interiors that are both stylish and practical.

Tactile Surfaces

2026 is all about touch. Expect textured walls, 3D tiles, boucle fabrics, and layered finishes that invite interaction. Clients are looking for interiors that feel engaging and sensory-driven, offering warmth and comfort in a world dominated by screens. Designers will experiment with mixing smooth and rough finishes to add depth to rooms without overwhelming them.

“Muddy” Color Palettes

While 2025 favored earthy neutrals, 2026 will see a shift toward muddier, more complex tones. Think olive greens, clay browns, muted mustards, and deep burgundies. These palettes add richness to interiors while maintaining a sense of calm. Paired with natural materials, these colors create timeless, lived-in spaces that feel both modern and grounded.

Flexible Spaces

The demand for adaptability is only growing. In 2026, expect a surge in sliding partitions, hidden storage, and furniture that can transform depending on the occasion. Designers will be asked to create spaces that feel open and airy yet can quickly convert into private, functional zones. Flexibility is becoming a must-have for clients who want homes that evolve with their lifestyles.

Become a professional Interior Designer at the Institute of Creative Design

In 2026, interior design is entering an exciting new chapter. The trends of 2025 highlighted our desire for natural materials, flexible spaces, and wellness-centered homes. In 2026, those ideas are evolving further with tactile surfaces, earthy “muddy” color palettes, and adaptable layouts that reflect the way we truly live and work today.

The demand for skilled designers remains strong, and clients are seeking professionals who can balance creativity with function, sustainability, and innovation. For anyone considering a career in interior design, there has never been a better time to step into the industry and help shape the spaces of the future.

Are you interested in the future of fashion? How technology will impact the industry going forward? Take a look at our industry-accredited courses and get started today. 

FAQ

What is the Forecast for Interior Design in 2027? 

Interior design in 2027 is expected to focus on sustainability, smart home integration, and highly adaptable spaces that fit changing lifestyles.

What are the Kitchen Trends for 2026? 

Kitchen trends for 2026 highlight warm “muddy” color palettes, natural stone surfaces, hidden storage, and flexible layouts designed for social cooking.

Are Two-Tone Kitchens out of Style in 2025? 

Two-tone kitchens are not out of style in 2025. They remain popular for adding contrast and personality, though designs are leaning toward softer, more natural palettes.