Colorful and personalized interiors are on the rise while neutrals and clean lines are fading. Three designers — Erin Sander, Nadia Watts, and Sanda Stojakovic — share their vision of living room trends for 2026. From nature-inspired colors to sculptural furniture, here’s what will define our living spaces this year.
Soft, Nature-Inspired Colors
Stojakovic notes that 2025 showcased dark wood tones against neutral backdrops, but 2026 will see the quiet return of color through soft, nature-inspired hues. She recommends dusty green, soft or deep blue, ochre, and warm brown. These tones “bring calm and depth to a room while still allowing for colorful expression,” appealing to those who want color but prefer soothing rather than energizing spaces.
Rich, Deep Colors
Watts acknowledges that neutrals have dominated but predicts a bolder direction with jewel tones. She recommends deep greens, saturated blues, and aubergine applied through paint, balanced by warm neutrals on curtains and upholstery. Jewel tones “instantly make a room feel more intimate and vibrant.”
Tile-Topped Coffee Tables
Sander highlights the rise of coffee tables with ceramic tile tops. In one of her projects, she designed a custom piece with a tiled top on a sleek black base. Tile “brings layered color and texture, adding interest to large coffee tables.” She suggests drawing inspiration from the colors of the room and using a local fabricator or trying a DIY approach.
Soft, Sculptural Furniture Silhouettes
Watts observes that her clients are moving away from straight, simple lines toward rounded edges and intricate details. She describes this evolution toward pieces that “feel soft and sculptural,” including curved sofas, arched backs, and furniture that reads almost like art.
Game Tables
Sander notes that the renewed interest in games and puzzles after COVID continues to gain strength. Mahjong and card games have grown in popularity, and clients are requesting dedicated game tables — any table that fits the existing style and floor plan can work, as long as the height allows comfortable play from a seated position.
Nostalgic and Meaningful Decor
Stojakovic sees 2026 leaning toward highly personalized spaces that reflect the owner’s story — mixed patterns, favorite colors, travel souvenirs, and nostalgic objects. She connects this to the rise of AI and automation, stating that “people will seek more individuality and authenticity at home,” making a personal, curated space a therapeutic experience.
In 2026, the living room is no longer just a room for entertaining — it’s a reflection of who you are, a space that tells your story while offering comfort and beauty every day.
