As we approach the halfway mark of 2026, it’s time to take a look at what’s going on in the design sphere. Were the predictions of design trends made in the latter part of 2025 correct? We talked to two of our top designers to get their perspective on what people are gravitating towards this year.
Make a Statement: Bold Colors and Patterns
Move over neutrals; bold color pops are making a comeback in the design conversation. One of the most anticipated trends of 2026 was the revival of color in interiors. “2026 is very exciting because we are seeing a shift from monochromatic interiors to contrasting colors, patterns and textures,” Huma Sulaiman, principal designer of Huma Sulaiman Design, says.
According to Sandra Vila, principal designer at Sandra Vila Design House, homeowners are using earthy tones as the base palette, then accenting with brighter colors. “I think we are going back to more of the 70s,” Vila says. “I am seeing a lot of use of the rust color as well as soft browns; they’re colors that are earthy but still strong.”
Along with bold colors, fun patterned wallpapers and textiles are serving as statement features within homes. From ornate floral wallpapers to Art Deco shapes and motifs in magentas and teals, these fun additions to the home are not only sparking conversation but also showcasing how personalization can shine in home design.
“More and more clients are really embracing more patterns and color…as a designer that’s really exciting because I am always looking for something new and creative,” Sulaiman says.
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Curated and Cozy: Warm Interiors
Minimalism is making its way out. The cold, understated interiors that were once all the rage are shifting toward spaces that exude warmth, comfort and coziness. “With the fast-paced life that we are living, I think people are looking for things that are more soulful…rather than having a place that looks like it’s been done up…they’re looking for homes that have more character,” Sulaiman says.
Texture has played a big role in making spaces feel warmer and more inviting, and, according to Vila, it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. “I think texturally, we’re all over the place in a good way,” she says. “There isn’t a room that wouldn’t benefit from texture, whether it’s in tile form, dimensional or if it’s a sheepskin throw over a chair. We are looking at wall-to-wall carpet again in bedrooms, ceilings with wall treatments; there are so many ways to add that kind of texture.”
Sulaiman notes that she is beginning to see materials in unexpected places, like kitchen countertops. “In some of my projects, we are working on making the countertops with tiles,” she says.
Health is Wealth: Wellness Spaces
People have been prioritizing their health for years now, but many are taking it a step further by integrating spa-grade amenities into the comfort of their homes in 2026. “It’s more about having a healthy lifestyle at your fingertips,” Vila explains. “We’re incorporating all kinds of spaces: cold plunges, saunas, morning sunlight moments, tech-free quiet zones and steam rooms…it’s beyond just home gyms.”
Having a connection to nature goes hand in hand with implementing health into home design. Many designers and architects are adopting a biophilic approach to their projects, creating homes that support their clients’ overall wellness. “There’s just something about having nature be inside the home,” Vila says. “It’s the opportunity to take a minute to be away from everything. I think if we can give a little bit of that to everybody, it would make a huge difference.”
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