For the last decade, we lived in the era of “Country Modern”. The American Farmhouse look dominated everything. But as we move toward 2026, that is changing. The sharp black-and-white contrast is softening. The rustic edges are being polished.
We are entering an era I call Soft Modern. It mixes the simplicity of Art Deco with the detail of traditional design. It is about character, comfort, and homes that feel good to touch.
Here is your guide to the key design shifts coming in 2026.
1. The curve is king
Straight lines are giving way to curves. We first saw this with furniture like curved sofas and rounded chairs. Now, it is fundamental to the architecture itself. We are seeing curved balconies, rounded facades, and arched entryways.
Photo by Alex Lukey.
Inside, this translates to softer edges. We are moving away from the rigid boxiness of modern minimalism toward shapes that feel organic and welcoming.
2. Textured and intricate tiles
If you look at the new tile collections, you will notice two things. We are seeing intricate patterns and texture.
There is a return to detail featuring intricate circles, curves, and floral patterns that almost look vintage. But the biggest shift is texture. We are seeing “ribbed” tiles and surfaces that are tactile. The hard, shiny edge of modern tile is being replaced by something softer and more interesting to the hand.
Photo by Alex Lukey.
Where should you use patterns and texture? Make a statement in powder rooms, showers, or pantries. These are perfect spaces to add personality without overwhelming the main floor.
3. Wallpaper with character
Wallpaper is not new, but the application is changing. We are moving past simple textured papers into full-on pattern. Think vintage florals, Canada Geese, and nostalgic motifs (like daisies) that conjure up a time gone by.
Use these in your personal spaces, such as your walk-in closet, pantry, or powder room. These are your “treat” spaces where you can have fun.
4. The new colour palette: peach & chocolate
I know many of you are still married to gray, but the palette is undeniably warming up.
Peach is back. This is a wonderful, soft color that is incredibly flattering on skin tones. It is perfect for a makeup room or dressing area.
Photo by Alex Lukey.
Chocolate brown is making a huge comeback. We are pairing rich chocolate brown with charcoal, black, and cream. It offers a classic, grounded look that feels far more comfortable than stark gray.
The reds are also trending. Look for deep terracottas, burgundies, cherries, and cranberries.
5. Toasted hardwoods
The blonde wood trend is darkening. We are moving toward a color I call light toast. Imagine a piece of white bread that has been lightly toasted. That warm, golden tone is the new standard.
Photo by The Reagan Group, Chatsworth Fine Homes.
We are also seeing a cleaner grain. The rustic, knotty character grade woods of the last five years are being replaced by cleaner Maples and White Oaks with long, tight grains. It looks polished and sophisticated rather than rustic.
Don’t discount carpet. Broadloom is returning for bedrooms and dens. It deadens sound and adds that “cocoon” feeling we are all craving right now.
6. The metal mix
Cool metals are coming back, but they aren’t the bright chrome of the 2000s. We are seeing:
- Gliver: This is my term for the mix of gold and silver. It’s a champagne tone that bridges the gap between warm and cool.
- Bronze: Dark brown metals are essential for grounding the new lighter palettes.
- Soft Chrome: A brushed, matte version of silver that feels sophisticated, not shiny.
The bottom line: personalization
The biggest trend for 2026 isn’t a colour or a shape. It is personalization. It is about creating a home that is meaningful to you, not just one that looks good on Instagram. Whether it is a piece of art you love or a bold chair reupholstered in an unexpected fabric, design is becoming less about the rules and more about how you live.
