Spring Interior Design Trends 2026: Craft, Collections & Modern Maximalism

The key interior trends from the spring editions of Homes & Gardens, World of Interiors, Elle Decoration, Living etc. and House & Garden in 2026 include craft, personal collections, modern maximalism, green hues and embroidery.

Craft & Personal Collections:

Crafts, antiques & personal collections (& not necessarily expensive ones) highlight the need to feel more connected to our environment in 2026. What better way to display the things we love than within rooms designed around 'Modern Maximalism' where what we value is thoughtfully displayed in a 'real home' way.

There is a desire for interior pieces to feel like they were found in Granny's attic, like a cherished heirloom or an object that tells an interesting story. Even if, in reality, you were lucky enough to find it at an antiques fair. Pieces with a lovely patina, or aged so it is slightly imperfect work because they create interest. Blended with beautiful furniture and soft fabrics, these characterful antiques create a sense of a lived-in, more relaxed home.

Speaking to clients, their most loved pieces are often collected from their travels or made by friends (or children) and then artfully and thoughtfully displayed. One client of mine told me recently that she has very sweetly bought an ornament for their family Christmas tree every year of their boys' lives. She has done this so when they do (eventually :)) leave home, they will have their own collections.

Embroidery:

Homes & Gardens wrote about Hand & Lock who make the most beautiful embroidered framed wall art and who also feature the very talented Kara Douwma from her brand Uncommon Ancestor. Kara's view is that furniture is not just an object but described instead as 'a keeper of stories'. I work with an exceptional upholsterer who shares this philosophy, carefully giving new life to old chairs and antique sofas.

Rich Green Paint Tones:

The Spring editions of the magazines all covered our love of green paint choices (Celery, Olive, Artichoke, Sage, Celadon) but also Tobacco, Muscovado , Earth & Caramel which complement one another as they share the same undertone. These colours are deeply comforting because of their connection to nature.

Modern Maximalism:

Homes & Gardens and House & Garden always celebrate craft through showcasing seriously bold & beautiful wallpapers and wall tapestries. I personally love these painted antiques from Birdie Fortescue and also the eclectic hand-painted furniture from Devon based Ian Snow. I noted the resurgence of decorative plate walls (hooray) & Etsy is a great place to start a new obsession. A friend recommended these stick-on hook attachments which make them simple to hang & pretty wall plates add detail to a maximalist decor.

Other notable trends include:

Detox Zones For Unwinding:

There is a movement towards creating 'detox zones' or a relaxation space where you can simply read or listen to music. These spaces should ideally not have a TV & should be styled for unwinding. Even a little corner with a window seat could be just enough to read, journal or draw. You could also treat yourself to an inexpensive record player and have fun building a vinyl collection just for you.

Papier-Mâché:

Who would have thought that papier-mâché would be a trend in 2026? Thankfully it is, and this hand-crafted imperfection is becoming popular in homeware. Maybe it's the 'Wuthering Heights' effect, but whimsical and folklore are no longer in the shadows and I love to read about local places in my area who celebrate the 'making' of things (Clothkits, Loam, West Dean College etc.) and in London unique shops like Maude & Mable and A New Tribe. 

Wood Detailing:

Timber is a material that improves with age and provides warmth where paint cannot. I love cleverly detailed timber joinery with hand-cut dovetail joints. We are lucky in West Sussex (& across the UK) to have talented cabinet makers and joinery companies who all excel at their craft. I recently found a local company called Pilgrim Furniture who specialise in uncomplicated bespoke furniture and accessories that I'm sure will be passed down through future generations. Honeyed Oak, Walnut and deeper stained woods add depth to contemporary spaces, helping rooms feel more grounded and inviting.

In Summary, the February & March editions of the magazines covered:

• Richly layered colours - shades of green, tobacco, rust and chocolate

• Celebrate craft and all things unique to you

• Wall hangings, tapestries and textiles as art

• Darker woods for authenticity

• Natural tactile surfaces

• Soft shapes, arches & curves

• Vintage or antique finds

• Statement stonework

• Nostalgic interiors (e.g. maximalism)

• Detox zones, areas in the home for reading and/or listening to music

I'm glad there is a movement to the return of the handmade and a celebration of individuality over AI perfection. Homes need to feel uniquely ours in 2026. If you love crafts and antiques, why not book your tickets for the June Craft Festival in Devon or visit the IACF for dates for their upcoming antique fairs and find something unique for your home.