A trend is typically short-lived and doesn't age well, particularly when it comes to fashion. However, even furniture goes through cycles of increasing popularity, and these cycles are becoming ever shorter.
This doesn't mean that you should jump onto every trend that is emerging, especially for sustainability's sake. Instead, we have analysed emerging design trends for 2026 and picked those that will easily stand the test of time.
Natural materials: wood and metal
Natural wood is returning to its rawest and most tactile state. In 2026, we will move away from the highly polished, orange-toned stains of the past, favouring "living" finishes instead. Think open-grain oak, walnut with visible knots and reclaimed timber with character. The aim is to be able to feel the texture under your fingertips and bring a grounding element into the home.
To offset the warmth of timber, brushed metals are becoming increasingly popular. The cold, high-shine of chrome is being replaced by the muted sophistication of bronze, aged brass and satin nickel. These metals are not just sitting on the surface, but are integrated into the architecture of the room through cabinetry and inlay details. They provide an industrial counterpoint to the soft irregularities of natural wood.
Cautious Maximalism
Maximalism does not mean excess. Nor does it mean pomp. It means decorating with intention and caution, but not being afraid to mix and match. You probably won't need to invest much in new objects; you'll likely already have plenty of great pieces tucked away, acquired when minimalism became popular and made you feel guilty for buying that colourful vase in Andalusia one summer.
Take it out, dust it off and start experimenting! But don't overdo it. Focus on one corner or wall that needs refreshing and balance it with complementary colours and a lower density of items around it. Consider combinations such as bright blue and orange, lush green and maroon, or yellow and royal purple.
While maximalism is undoubtedly audacious, it's more about having the confidence to embrace vibrant colours, different textures and patterns, and paying attention to detail.
Rugs with personality
Surely, this could be considered part of the maximalism trend, but it deserves to be in the spotlight in its own right. For too long, rugs have been viewed as neutral foundations designed to blend into the background. This year, however, the floor becomes the 'fifth wall'. There is a growing trend towards sculptural pile heights and irregular, organic silhouettes that transcend the traditional rectangular form.
Whether it's a hand-tufted piece, a bold geometric pattern or a vintage Persian rug bearing signs of wear, the rug is now the starting point for a room's colour scheme rather than an afterthought. The focus is on adding a layer of soul to the floor: something that feels as good to walk on as it looks.
Art
In 2026, art is moving away from the 'gallery wall' of small, mismatched prints and towards singular, large-scale pieces. Texture is in increasing demand: think heavy impasto, palette knife strokes, textile hangings, or mixed-media pieces that cast shadows.
This trend is less about matching your paintings to your cushions and more about selecting wall art that evoke a physical or emotional response. Don't be afraid of 'difficult' art; pieces that challenge the viewer often become the ones you love the most.
Dining tables
This seems odd, doesn't it? But consider how many people have shifted their meals away from a dining table to the couch to eat while watching Bridgerton. In 2026, we're witnessing a conscious rebellion against 'dinner on the sofa'. The dining table is being reclaimed as the heart of the home once again, and its design is changing to reflect this.
We are moving towards heavy, communal tables with chunkier legs and softened, rounded edges. Basically, designs that encourage you to linger long after the meal is over. The table is becoming a multifunctional focal point for conversation once again.
