As we move into 2026, interior design continues to evolve, blending warmth, craftsmanship, personality, and function. Designers and trend forecasters are highlighting materials and forms that feel both timeless and fresh. Here are some of the key interior design trends leading the way this year.
More Wood
I know, we’re a little bit biased. But we’re trusting the experts here! According to Vogue, natural wood is one of the standout trends for 2026. Rather than sleek, uniform finishes, designers are embracing wood with character: reclaimed pieces, live edge, and rich grain that tells a story.
Why it matters: Wood fosters a sense of comfort and natural warmth, anchoring spaces while still feeling updated and refined.
How to do it:
- Incorporate woods into your kitchens, dining rooms, and bedrooms
- If you already have wood in your space, consider adding a different species to enhance its contrast
- Start small! Use a wooden serving tray or bowl as an accent on top of other materials
By Katie Harbison Interior Design. Photo by Michael Sinclair.
Informal Dining Areas
Dining spaces are evolving from formal, static rooms into flexible, multifunctional areas designed to support our chaotic lives. Designers are reimagining dining areas as comfortable places for everyday routines, rather than rooms reserved only for special occasions. from family breakfasts to casual dinner parties. “We’re again seeing a real desire for a more relaxed space to gather for meals, which reflects how people actually live day to day,” explains interior designer Clare Kennedy for Living Etc.
The shift reflects how we actually use our homes: socially, fluidly, and without rigid boundaries.
How to do it:
- Think about investing in an extendable dining table – something that can flex with you
- Utilize casual banquette seating
- Arrange furniture using an open-plan that naturally flows into living and kitchen spaces
By Clare Kennedy Interiors. Photo by Joseph Bradshaw.
Dark Wood Tones
Following us from 2025, rich, dark wood tones are here to stay in 2026. From Black Walnut to dark-stained wood, designers are choosing finishes that lend depth, elegance, and gravity to your space. They ‘add a lot of character to a home,’ says Shea McGee for Homes & Gardens. We’re seeing this trend becoming even more visible across furniture, cabinetry, and statement pieces.
Why we love it: Dark wood creates a visually rich backdrop that pairs beautifully with soft textures and contrasting materials — everything from light upholstery to metallic accents (silver is going to have a moment this year!).
How to do it:
- Pick a species like Black Walnut or English Elm to add some warmth and depth to your space
- For a more budget-friendly approach, consider starting with a lighter wood and staining it to your desired color
By McGee & Co.
Craftsmanship
In a world dominated by mass production, there’s a growing appreciation for handmade, artisanal design. According to Business Insider, designers note that homeowners increasingly value pieces with character, detail, and visible maker’s marks, whether that’s in furniture, textiles, or decor.
This shift reflects a deeper cultural desire for spaces that feel authentic and personal – homes curated over time, not just styled by trends. Craftsmanship brings a sense of story and substance into design, countering the sterile feel of mass-produced interiors.
How to do it:
- Contact a representative at Baldwin Hardwoods about getting your custom piece started today – one-of-a-kind and built to last, we care about making your dreams a reality
- Work with a local interior designer to help you find the right craftsman for your project
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Sculptural Furniture
Furniture in 2026 is less about function alone and more about form and presence. Sculptural pieces – whether a curvaceous sideboard, an oversized lounge chair, or a fluid coffee table – are becoming huge focal points in interiors. According to Castlery, these pieces make a space feel alive, inviting movement and visual rhythm.
Sculptural furniture blurs the line between art and utility, turning everyday objects into conversation pieces
How to do it:
- Look for rounded silhouettes
- Create organic lines that echo architecture and art
By Castlery. Photo by Steve Cordony.
What This All Means for 2026
Together, these trends show that 2026 interiors are all about depth, intention, and adaptability:
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Natural materials like wood bring warmth and ground your space.
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Flexible spaces mirror real lifestyles.
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Rich finishes and refined accents elevate without overpowering.
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Craftsmanship prioritizes longevity, personality, and beauty.