As 2025 draws to a close, interior designers across the United States are sharing their predictions for home decor trends that will define spaces in 2026. Experts point to a shift towards more personal, tactile environments, moving away from past minimalist aesthetics. Expect to see a strong emphasis on 'analog joy,' statement-making natural stone, and a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship.
Key Takeaways
- Homes will feature dedicated 'analog rooms' designed for screen-free activities.
- Colored and patterned natural stone will replace traditional white marble as a focal point.
- Craftsmanship, custom built-ins, and heritage styles will see a resurgence.
- Personalized art, including portraiture, will tell unique stories within spaces.
- Lighting design will evolve with a focus on pleated shades and cordless options.
The Rise of Analog Rooms
One of the most compelling trends for 2026 is the creation of 'analog rooms.' These are dedicated spaces designed to encourage people to unplug from digital devices and engage in activities that foster connection and calm. Dallas designer Kara Adam coined the term 'Analog Joy' to describe this movement.
"More and more clients are craving what I call ‘analog rooms’––basically spaces designed for slowing down," Adam explained. "It’s not about going off the grid; it’s about creating a room that naturally invites focus, conversation and calm."
These tech-free environments are perfect for puzzles, card games, reading, or simply enjoying cocktails and conversation with loved ones. The focus is on creating a layered, tactile space that feels lived-in and intentionally disconnected from the digital world. It represents a quieter form of luxury, with a growing demand from homeowners.
Interesting Fact
Game tables are making a significant comeback. Ten years ago, aesthetic options were limited, but today, designers report a wide array of beautiful choices. The renewed interest in games like Mah Jong has also spurred furniture designers to create new, stylish game tables.
Statement Stone Takes Center Stage
While classic Carrara marble will always have its place, 2026 will see a dramatic shift towards colored and patterned natural stone. This trend is a direct response to the minimalist white kitchens that dominated the 2010s.
Lina Galvão, co-founder and principal at Curated Nest in Greenwich, Connecticut, noted, "More and more over the past five years, we’ve been seeing bold stone across the board as a backlash against the minimalist white kitchens of the 2010s."
Homeowners are seeking unique and bold slabs that evoke strong moods and act as art pieces within their homes. James Huniford of Huniford Design Studio in New York anticipates a surge in green and plum tones, as well as gold-veined cream and dramatic onyx. He emphasized that clients desire stone that feels like art, adding rich color and movement to kitchens and bathrooms.
Trend Evolution
Veiny stone will become a focal point, not just in kitchens and baths, but also on foyer floors and even door trims. Designers are experimenting with mixing different types of stone, such as limestone and marble, or warmer marble tones like brown and cream, to create unique combinations.
Craftsmanship and Heritage Style Return
The coming year will highlight craftsmanship in all its forms, from intricate architectural detailing to custom-built furniture. Built-in elements are gaining popularity, acting as an extension of a room's structure rather than freestanding decorative pieces.
James Huniford expressed his enthusiasm for built-in seating, drawing inspiration from 1970s Mexican modernist designers like Luis Barragán. He believes built-ins make a space feel curated and calm, offering an uncluttered, efficient, and sculptural look that integrates seamlessly into the architecture.
Heritage style will also rise to prominence, bringing a sense of tradition and timelessness into interiors. This broad term refers to historical design, often inspired by Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian periods, but refined for contemporary living. Key characteristics include darker wood finishes, wallpaper, patterns, heavy layering, and classic materials such as brass and marble.
"We’re seeing a reversion back to traditional molding and plasterwork to add dimension and character to homes," Galvão observed. "Even modern homes are getting a traditional glow-up with wood paneling, picture molding with interesting profiles and crown molding."
Personalized Art and Lighting Evolution
Building on the personalized spaces seen in 2025, art in 2026 will be even more intentional. Homeowners are searching for pieces with substance and meaning, reflecting their unique experiences and identities.
Austin, Texas, designer Annie Downing noted that clients are embracing this personalized trend, gravitating towards items with soul. This includes flea-market discoveries, hand-thrown ceramics, travel sketches, and anything that tells a personal story. The aim is for art that feels discovered, creating a lived-in, layered, and slightly imperfect wall, contrasting with past symmetrical gallery displays.
Portraiture is also making a significant comeback. Gretchen Farrell, a designer based in North Salem, New York, highlighted the inherent human curiosity drawn to faces. She explained that portraits, whether of familiar or unknown subjects, serve as stylish decor while fostering legacy and meaningful storytelling, often sparking engaging conversations at gatherings.
Lighting Trends
Lighting design is also undergoing an evolution. The British pleated shade trend is gaining traction in the U.S., adding a touch of classic elegance. Furthermore, cordless lamps are expected to become increasingly popular, offering flexibility and a clean aesthetic without visible wires.
- Pleated Shades: A classic, elegant touch.
- Cordless Lamps: Offer flexibility and a streamlined look.
These shifts in home decor reflect a broader desire for authenticity, comfort, and personal expression in our living environments. The trends for 2026 suggest a future where homes are not just aesthetically pleasing, but deeply personal sanctuaries.