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For those looking to refresh their living spaces, home and design platform Houzz has revealed its predictions for the top interior trends of 2026.
Insights gleaned from its community Homeownerdesigners and home improvement professionals alike have expressed a clear desire for spaces that harmonize personality with comfort.
These emerging styles are expected to gain significant momentum in the coming year.
Inheriting maximalism
“Minimalism interior design This trend has been growing in popularity among UK homeowners for some time, but we expect a shift driven by tradition,” reveals Kiya Kelly-Paine, home design trends expert at Houzz.
“This design style is known as ‘traditional maximalism’ and incorporates the British Creating a timeless, modern appeal while being rooted in a contemporary sensibility,” she explains.
“Think bold color palettes, historic patterns and gorgeous details, from furnishings to finishes.”
Mel Massey, founder of Mel Massey Studio, said: “We’ve noticed more and more clients embracing bold interior design choices, from detailed wallpapers and patterned interiors to dramatic color palettes.
“At the same time, homeowners are embracing contemporary styles to personalize their spaces,” Ms. Massey emphasized.
While the choices may be intimidating at one time, she says visual tools like mood boards give homeowners “the confidence to combine these elements into a curated look rather than a chaotic one.”
Hidden space and seamless design
Whether you’re looking to optimize a smaller space or simply minimize clutter, Ms. Kelly-Paine said, smart design features, “such as hidden home bars and recessed built-ins, can help you achieve a leaner, more sophisticated look.”
“These hidden spaces offer homeowners the best of both worlds: functional functionality when needed and seamless design when not,” she adds.
Omar Bhatti, founder and design director at Space Shack, said: “Requests for bespoke joinery are becoming increasingly common as our clients look to personalize their homes.
“These bespoke solutions not only add character but are practical and tailored to suit our clients’ lifestyles.”
Immersive visualization becomes the new blueprint
Ms. Kelly-Paine noted that homeowners and design professionals increasingly rely on 3D modeling to communicate their ideas and explore possibilities.
“These visualization tools are mutually beneficial for homeowners and professionals because they help set and manage clear expectations throughout the project,” she explains.
Laura evans“Visualization tools like 3D floor plans have been a game-changer for me and my clients,” says interior designer and founder of Brick and Stone Interiors.
“Digital models provide my clients with a realistic picture of what to expect by bringing concepts to life,” Ms. Evans said. “Not only does this ensure we are consistent throughout the process, but it also helps them communicate any changes proactively.”
Soft and simple
Photos of cocoon-like spaces layered with neutral colors, organic materials and tactile finishes are among the most popular images on Houzz, as homeowners seek to create calm sanctuaries in their homes, Ms. Kelly-Paine said.
“Together, these elements create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels comfortable and relaxing.”
Ms Evans agrees: “In recent years, our clients have been leaning towards an ‘organic modern’ style, from bedrooms to kitchens and everywhere in between.
“As homeowners look to create a softer minimalist style, they are introducing warm neutral colors, textures and organic shapes to create tranquil, restorative spaces.”
“We hope to see this trend continue as it is an adaptable aesthetic that works well with a variety of home design styles,” she continued.
The return of dark wood
“Dark wood tones like walnut and mahogany are making a resurgence as homeowners strive to bring a sense of depth to interior spaces,” Ms. Kelly-Paine said.
Additionally, she said searches on Houzz reflected this recovery, with Google searches for “blackwood” growing 187% in the first three quarters of this year compared to the same period in 2024.
Mr Batty said: “For many years many homeowners have favored light wood tones and stucco finishes, but recently customers have shown interest in darker, more dramatic wood tones.
“Whether it’s kitchen joinery, bespoke built-ins or wall cladding. To offset dark wood tones, we often pair them with warm metals or textured stone for a more balanced look,” he explains.
Transparent renovation project
Ms Kelly-Paine said research showed homeowners were keen for more transparency throughout the renovation process. “41% said a clearer timeline would improve their project experience.
“Almost as many want better communication with their professionals (40%).”
In fact, Mr. Bhatti said having access to a real-time communication platform has been helpful for his clients. “This makes collaboration smoother; clients can stay informed about real-time project updates, so they feel less stressed and more empowered throughout the process.
“Given how effective it is, I expect this type of collaboration software will see wider adoption across the industry.”
Light as art
From sculptural alabaster pendants to playful glass shapes, homeowners are making personalized statements light Ms Kelly-Paine outlined ways to transform their space.
“Of course, lighting plays a functional role in illuminating a space, but if chosen and positioned thoughtfully, lighting fixtures can become independent works of art.”
Ms Massey said: “Lighting fixtures have become a focus for our customers as they look to inject personality and even a bit of drama into their spaces.
“For anyone considering personalized lighting, it’s worth using visualization tools to understand where fixtures will fit in the space before making a final decision,” she advises.