Interior Design Trends for 2026

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Interior design is everywhere. It influences how we move through our homes, how we relax after a long day and how comfortable our spaces truly feel. From the furniture we sit on to the lighting we turn on at night, design plays a quiet but powerful role in everyday life.

Design trends reflect what people crave at a particular moment in time. That is why furniture stores like La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston keep a close eye on how interiors are evolving. These trends help homeowners decide what feels current, what feels comfortable and what feels right for their lifestyle.

To better understand interior design trends for 2026, we spoke with Michelle MacLellan, Interior Designer at La-Z-Boy Hunt Club, and Mary Lee Smyth, Interior Designer at La-Z-Boy Kingston. Together, they share what they are seeing in real homes right now and how these design ideas can be approached in a way that feels natural and achievable.

So what design trends are emerging this year, and which ones are worth considering for your home? Let’s take a closer look.

Key Takeaways:

• Interior design trends for 2026 focus on creating spaces that feel comfortable, personal and lived in. Homeowners are moving away from overly styled interiors and choosing designs that support everyday life.
• Warm neutrals and earthy colour palettes are replacing cool greys and stark whites. These tones help rooms feel grounded, inviting and easy to live with long term.
• Texture is playing a larger role in home design, with natural materials and layered finishes adding depth without overwhelming a space.
• Furniture choices are prioritizing comfort and longevity, with softer shapes, sculptural silhouettes and personalized upholstery becoming more popular.

In This Article...

• The Nancy Meyers Style
• Warmer Colour Palettes and Earthy Neutrals
• Colour Drenching and Heritage Paint Colours
• Rustic Textures and Natural Materials
• Rugs That Ground the Room
• Sculptural Furniture and Soft Curves
• Warm and Layered Lighting
• Dining Rooms and Entertaining at Home
• Personalized Comfort and Statement Pieces
• Which Interior Design Trend Is Right For Your Lifestyle?

1. The Nancy Meyers Style

One interior design style continuing to resonate in 2026 is what many people now recognize as the Nancy Meyers style. Even if the name is unfamiliar, the look itself feels instantly recognizable. These interiors are warm, inviting and timeless, often seen in films where the home feels like a character of its own.

This style leans heavily on warm neutrals, natural materials such as linen, wood, and wicker, and classic furniture that prioritizes comfort and elegance. Spaces feel layered rather than styled, with books, fresh flowers and collected décor that reflect real life.

Michelle MacLellan, Interior Designer at La-Z-Boy Hunt Club, says this style connects with homeowners because it feels approachable. “People want their homes to feel welcoming and comfortable. The Nancy Meyers style works because it never feels forced or trendy.”

For anyone wondering how to make their home feel cozy without looking outdated, this design approach remains a reliable starting point.

2. Warmer Colour Palettes and Earthy Neutrals

Colour trends for 2026 are shifting noticeably toward warm, earthy tones. Cool greys and crisp whites are giving way to warmer whites, beige, taupe and mushroom shades that create a softer foundation in living spaces.

Darker neutrals are also making a return. Chocolate browns, cognac tones and soft blacks are appearing more frequently in accent furniture, wood finishes and leather upholstery. These colours add depth while still feeling timeless.

Mary Lee Smyth, Interior Designer at La-Z-Boy Kingston, has noticed growing interest in richer hues. “Burgundy is coming back in a big way. It feels warm and classic, and it adds character without taking over a room.”

These colour palettes are especially appealing to homeowners asking what colours make a living room feel warm and inviting without feeling heavy.

This is one of the main colour trends expected to appear in the coming year, which you can learn more about in our Colour Trends for 2026 article.

3. Colour Drenching and Heritage Paint Colours

Colour drenching continues to gain attention in 2026, especially for those looking to add impact without introducing multiple colours. Painting walls, trim and ceilings the same colour creates a cohesive look that feels intentional and grounded.

This year, colour drenching is being paired with heritage-inspired paint colours and matte finishes. Earthy greens, warm browns and muted blues are popular choices that feel rich rather than overwhelming.

Michelle notes that this approach works best when balanced with texture and lighting. “Matte paint and warmer colours help colour-drenched rooms feel cozy instead of too bold.”

For homeowners wondering if colour drenching makes a room feel smaller, thoughtful colour choices and layered lighting can actually make the space feel more inviting.

To learn more about What Are the Best Colours For Your Home, take a look at this article.

4. Rustic Textures and Natural Materials

Texture is one of the biggest interior design trends for 2026. Rather than sleek, polished finishes, homeowners are embracing rougher, more organic materials that add warmth and personality.

Natural fabrics like linen, wool and cotton soften furniture and window treatments, while stone, wood and ceramic bring contrast and structure. There is also a shift toward honed and leathered stone finishes instead of polished surfaces.

Michelle explains that texture helps balance modern spaces. “Rough textures bring warmth and contrast to clean lines. That balance is what makes a room feel finished and comfortable.”

This trend speaks to anyone asking how to make a modern home feel warmer and more lived in.

Did you know that natural materials in fabric and leather furniture can mix well together? It's true! You can learn more about How to Mix and Match Fabric and Leather Furniture with this article.

5. Rugs That Ground the Room

Rugs are becoming an essential design element in 2026 rather than an afterthought. Homeowners are choosing rugs that properly fit their furniture and help define the room.

Textured, tonal rugs are especially popular, offering warmth without overpowering a space. Natural materials like wool and jute remain favourites for their durability and timeless appeal, while heritage-style patterns are being mixed with modern furniture.

Mary Lee has seen a noticeable shift in how rugs are used. “People are finally paying attention to scale. A well-sized rug can completely change how a room feels.”

For anyone asking if carpets are coming back in style, this renewed focus makes the answer clear.

To learn about La-Z-Boy’s Area Rug Selection, take a look at this article.

6. Sculptural Furniture and Soft Curves

Furniture silhouettes in 2026 are becoming softer and more sculptural. After years of straight lines and sharp edges, curves are making a strong return.

Rounded sofas, curved accent chairs and organic coffee tables help create better flow within a space. These pieces feel inviting and visually soften a room, especially when paired with warm colours and textured materials.

Mary Lee notes that comfort plays a big role in this shift. “Curved furniture feels more relaxed. It makes people want to sit down and stay awhile.”

This trend appeals to homeowners looking for furniture that feels modern while still being comfortable for everyday use.

7. Warm and Layered Lighting

Lighting in 2026 is about creating atmosphere rather than relying on a single overhead fixture. Rooms are being designed with layered lighting that includes table lamps, floor lamps and wall sconces.

Warmer light temperatures are preferred, helping spaces feel comfortable in the evening while still functional during the day. Lighting placed on end tables and consoles also adds visual balance to a room.

Michelle emphasizes the impact lighting can have. “Adding lamps throughout a room instantly changes how it feels. It makes the space feel warmer and more complete.”

This approach answers a common question of how to make a room feel cozy at night. Michelle also gives more in-depth tips on How to Decorate Your Home in Layers, which you can learn more about with this article.

8. Dining Rooms and Entertaining at Home

Entertaining at home continues to shape interior design trends in 2026. Dining rooms are becoming more flexible, with furniture that adapts easily to different occasions.

Expandable dining tables are growing in popularity, allowing families to host larger gatherings without dedicating permanent space. Dining areas are also being styled with rugs and layered lighting to create a comfortable atmosphere that encourages people to linger.

Mary Lee has noticed increased interest in these setups. “People are hosting more at home. They want dining tables that can grow when they need them to.”

This trend reflects a renewed focus on connection and hospitality within the home. La-Z-Boy has an extensive dining room selection, which you can learn more about with our Dining Room Furniture Guide.

9. Personalized Comfort and Statement Pieces

Personalization continues to play a major role in 2026 interior design. Rather than matching sets, homeowners are choosing statement pieces that reflect their personal style.

Comfort remains a priority, but it is now paired with bolder upholstery choices. Recliners and accent chairs are being selected in colours like blush, turquoise and burgundy, proving that comfort does not have to be neutral.

Mary Lee highlights this shift toward individuality. “People want furniture that feels personal. Comfort can still be stylish.”

A sofa colour can really make the difference between a traditional style and a contemporary style. To learn more about Tips for Choosing the Right Sofa Colour, take a look at this article.

Which Interior Design Trend Is Right For Your Lifestyle?

With so many interior design trends emerging in 2026, it can be hard to know which ones actually make sense for your home. Not every trend works for every lifestyle, and that is completely okay. The key is understanding how you use your space day to day and choosing design elements that support that.

Here is a simple way to think through which interior design trends may be worth exploring for your home.

Love Comfort and a Lived-In Feel?

You may be drawn to warm, layered interiors inspired by the Nancy Meyers style. This approach focuses on comfort first, with soft neutral colour palettes, natural materials and furniture that feels inviting rather than formal. 

Think plush sofas, textured upholstery, cozy throws and spaces that look collected over time rather than styled all at once. This style works especially well for homeowners who want their space to feel welcoming, relaxed and easy to live in.

Drawn to Warmth and Natural Elements?

If calm and balance are important to you, earthy neutrals and natural textures may be the right fit. These interiors rely on wood tones, linen fabrics, wool rugs and stone finishes to create a grounded, soothing environment. Warmer whites, taupes and soft browns help rooms feel cozy without feeling heavy. 

This design approach is ideal for open-concept homes or spaces with good natural light, where materials and texture can do most of the work.

Enjoy Hosting and Bringing People Together?

If your home is a gathering place, consider trends that support entertaining and flexibility. Expandable dining tables, properly sized area rugs and layered lighting help create spaces that feel comfortable for both everyday living and larger get-togethers. 

Thoughtful lighting, such as table lamps and wall sconces, can make dining and living areas feel more inviting and encourage people to linger longer.

Prefer Bold Choices and Personal Expression?

You may enjoy leaning into colour-drenching, sculptural furniture and statement pieces. Painting walls, trim and ceilings in a single colour can add depth and personality, while curved furniture and unique lighting fixtures create visual interest. 

These trends work well for homeowners who want their space to reflect their personality and are comfortable making design choices that stand out while remaining livable.

At the end of the day, the right interior design trend is the one that makes your home feel comfortable, functional and personal. Whether you prefer subtle warmth or bold expression, working with a designer can help you explore these ideas in a way that feels approachable and stress-free.

What's Next?

Now that you are up to speed with the 2026 interior design trends, it is up to you to decide which design trend speaks to you. 

If you’re interested in any of these trendy ideas, there is no better place to start than by talking to an interior designer. 

La-Z-Boy has expert interior designers eager to lend a helping hand with your home design. Make sure to check out any of our La-Z-Boy furniture stores in Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston or book an appointment before coming in.

La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston also offer good quality living room furniture that will help emphasize your taste and design. Make sure to check out some of our best-selling articles to get ideas on what may pique your interest.

• Best-Selling Recliners at La-Z-Boy
• Best-Selling Sofas at La-Z-Boy
• Best-Selling Sectional Sofas at La-Z-Boy

To learn more about La-Z-Boy furniture in general and how it can be incorporated into your interior design, take a look at our comprehensive Furniture Buyer’s Guide.

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