Home Design Trends That Are Fading Out by 2026

As the world of interior design evolves, certain popular trends are gradually being pushed aside to make room for fresh ideas and styles that reflect modern sensibilities. Here’s a look at some of the design elements that are expected to fade out by 2026, along with expert insights on what’s taking their place.

1. All-White Kitchens

Once a hallmark of modern design, all-white kitchens are slowly losing their appeal. Designers are steering away from stark white interiors in favor of richer colors that add depth and warmth to the space. Corinne Ekle, of C2 Design, notes, “Design is moving toward more layered, atmospheric spaces that embrace depth and warmth—think deep greens, inky blues, and soft taupes.” Homeowners are seeking kitchens that feel cozier and more inviting rather than sterile.

2. Scallop Headboards

Those whimsical scallop-headboards that captured hearts in recent years are becoming less relevant. Christopher Boutlier from Christopher Boutlier Interiors highlights that while scallop-top beds provided a soft aesthetic, the trend is shifting back to more tailored and architectural headboard styles, featuring stronger lines and the use of natural materials for a more grounded look.

3. Waterfall Kitchen Islands

The sleek and modern look of waterfall islands is waning, according to Colleen Lettich Hyde of ODE Design. Once considered a modern staple, their overuse has led to a search for warmer, more personalized options. Homeowners are now looking to mix materials like wood and metal to create a unique, inviting focal point that reflects their personality, rather than sticking to a singular, cold aesthetic.

4. Millennial Gray

After dominating the design scene for some time, millennial gray is on its way out. Designers like Amber Guyton from Blessed Little Bungalow have observed a significant trend towards warmer neutrals and bolder colors. The shift represents a longing for spaces that feel vibrant and lived-in, eschewing the cool and distant tones that characterized the millennial gray era.

5. Oversized, Statement Pendants

Gone are the days when oversized statement pendants were the go-to choice for lighting. As Corinne Ekle explains, lighting is becoming more refined. Designers are opting for smaller, thoughtfully scaled fixtures that complement the room’s architecture instead of overpowering it. This shift aligns with an overall trend toward subtler elegance in home design.

6. Traditional Dining Rooms

In a world where informal gatherings are on the rise, traditional dining rooms are frequently underutilized. Jamie Lyn Smith from Smith Home Studios notes that clients are now prioritizing eat-in kitchen areas and finding creative uses for formal dining rooms—transforming them into home offices, cozy movie rooms, or even intimate libraries. This evolution reflects a broader lifestyle shift towards casual, multifunctional living spaces.

7. Understated Craftsmanship

The era of simple, understated craftsmanship is giving way to a demand for detail and uniqueness. As Liz Fraser Wooten of Ashdown Studio points out, there is a growing nostalgia for tailored, artisanal details in home design, such as sophisticated millwork and decorative ceiling treatments. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to imbue their spaces with character and quality, moving away from generic finishes.

8. All-Neutral Rooms

While neutral tones will always hold their place in design, the all-neutral room is on the decline. More homeowners desire depth and richness in their color palettes. Liz Fraser Wooten again emphasizes a trend towards limewash finishes and patterned fabrics, moving away from the blandness of a grayscale palette to vibrant, engaging spaces that tell a story.

9. Modern Farmhouse Style

The modern farmhouse aesthetic, characterized by its predominately white and black scheme, is starting to feel outdated. Liz Potarazu from LP & Co. expresses a desire for more intentionality in design, cautioning against confusing minimalism with lack of vision. The current shift is towards homier, warmer designs that feel less like a showroom and more like authentic living spaces.

10. Bouclé Fabric

Bouclé fabric has been a darling of designers for nearly a decade, but its overuse is leading to a decline in its desirability. Christopher Boutlier points out that designers are now searching for richer textures—like brushed wool and slub linen—that provide the same comfort but with added depth and sophistication.

11. Minimalism

The allure of minimalism is giving way to maximalism, where bold colors, patterns, and layered designs reign supreme. Eleanor Tate Trepte from Dekay & Tate Interiors observes that clients are eager for spaces that are both calm and visually striking, reflecting a balanced lifestyle that isn’t afraid to embrace personality and vibrancy.

12. Matching Wood Tones

The trend of matching wood tones throughout interiors is shifting as well. Designers like Sierra Schmitt from S-Squared advocate for a more varied approach, embracing a mix of wood tones that add warmth and individuality to homes. A layered look not only feels more grounded but also adds a sense of character that uniformity lacks.

13. Flat Drywall

The future is looking textured! Rosa Santiago Zimmerman from RSZ Design + Development notes that textured walls and ceilings—think plaster finishes and fluted details—are taking over as flat drywall becomes less popular. This trend aims to infuse spaces with warmth, dimension, and a notable sense of purpose.

14. Catalog-Inspired Rooms

Homeowners are moving away from the sterile look of catalog-inspired rooms. Cheryl Stauffer from Crimson Design Group highlights the desire for authenticity, where spaces reflect personal stories rather than the anonymous polish of showhouses. A more thoughtful approach evokes confidence without overcrowding, making each room feel like a personal narrative.

15. Café Curtains

While once favored for their charm, café curtains are losing ground to more seamless window treatments. Designers advocate for fuller, floor-length drapery or simple linen shades that enhance the architecture and allow an abundance of natural light, as noted by Christopher Boutlier.

These evolving trends reflect a collective desire for warmth, individuality, and thoughtful design as homeowners seek to create spaces that are truly their own. The future of interior design promises to embrace authenticity, creativity, and a deeper connection to personal style.