2026 Design Trends
As every year begins, interior designers around the world make predictions about what style trends will gain popularity. This year is poised to see a notable shift in how people decorate their homes and enhance their living spaces. For the last 10-ish years, there have been many overarching trends saturating interior design around the world. Mid-century modern, cool grey tones, minimalism, and the modern farmhouse aesthetic are just a few examples of these lasting trends. However, in the past year, interior designers have started to see a shift away from these tired trends. Replacing these minimalistic trends is something designers have coined as “meaningful maximalism"; This involves rich colors, bold accents, and natural materials to evoke a more playful, cozy feeling.
COLOR DRENCHING & RICH COLORS
Credit: Zeke Ruelas / Brad Ramsey Interiors
Color drenching is a newer term used to describe a room that is painted entirely in one color, including the trim and ceilings. This style of painting is one of the hottest trends on the horizon and is often mixed with rich statement tones like the earthy, jewel-toned green pictured above. This style of moodier interiors is a callback to 60s and 70s trends, originally inspired by avant-garde art. Here at CBB, we think color drenching with rich tones is an excellent way to bring warmth and personality into your home, and the trend has major lasting potential.
NATURAL WOOD TONES
Credit: CBB Design & Tzu Chen Photography
Being based in the mountains of North Carolina, CBB is very accustomed to using natural materials like wood and stone in mountain homes, lake homes, and modern homes alike. We have been delighted to see the resurgence of wood textures coming to replace flat whites and grays, especially in the kitchen. Pictured above is a picture of a client’s home that features tons of natural wood texture. The wood that we featured in this kitchen helps create an elegant yet warm space; it gives a distinctly modern yet warm feel, but it doesn't feel sterile like some stark white kitchens can. This natural modern feel is complemented by wood furniture and natural stone textures featured in the kitchen island and backsplash.
PATTERNED WALLPAPERS
Credit: Artscape Wallpaper Design
Wallpaper has made its triumphant return into the scope of interior design over the past few years; however, this year it has become more refined. Large florals, murals, textured and botanical design wallpapers like the one pictured are going to be some of the most influential designs this year. These wallpapers are also accented by other 2026 design trends, such as rich jewel tones as seen in the florals above. Wallpaper is a great way to add a pop of art to your space, and these days, you have more options than ever!
Want to integrate any of these trends into your home? Let us help you to take your space to the next level. Contact us to book a consultation today!