5 Design Trends to Watch in 2026, According to Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens recently shared five design trends they predict will shape interiors in 2026, and they point to something we’ve all been craving: homes that feel intentional, expressive, and lived-in, not flat or overly safe.
According to Better Homes & Gardens, here are the five trends to know:
Strong Stripes
Circles & Spheres
Multi-light Pendants
Green Marble
Climbing Houseplants
Let’s break down what each trend looks like and why it matters.
Trend 1: Strong Stripes Make a Confident Return
Stripes are officially back, but in 2026, they’re anything but subtle.
We’re seeing bold, graphic stripes used in wallpaper, upholstery, rugs, and even accent walls. These aren’t delicate pinstripes; they’re confident, intentional patterns that add instant character to a space.
What makes stripes so appealing is their versatility. Depending on scale and color, they can feel classic, modern, playful, or refined. They bring structure without heaviness and interest without clutter.
Why this trend works:
Strong stripes add movement and personality while still feeling timeless. They’re a smart choice for anyone who wants to move beyond neutral without committing to something overly busy.
Trend 2: Circles & Spheres Soften Our Spaces
Alongside bold patterns, 2026 is embracing curves.
Circles and spherical shapes are showing up everywhere, from rounded furniture and mirrors to lighting and architectural details. This shift away from harsh straight lines is part of a larger move toward spaces that feel softer and more inviting.
Curves balance modern interiors beautifully, especially in homes that already have a lot of angular architecture.
Why this trend works:
Rounded forms make rooms feel calmer and more welcoming. They add visual interest without overwhelming the space and help create a sense of flow and ease.
Trend 3: Multi-Light Pendants Become Design Statements
Lighting in 2026 isn’t an afterthought. It’s a focal point.
Multi-light pendants are gaining popularity as statement pieces, especially over dining tables, kitchen islands, and entryways. These fixtures don’t just light a room; they define it.
Instead of a single central light source, layered, sculptural lighting is becoming essential to how a space feels.
Why this trend works:
Thoughtful lighting adds warmth, depth, and intention. A well-chosen pendant can anchor a room, highlight architecture, and completely change a space's mood.
Trend 4: Green Marble Brings Nature Indoors
Green marble is emerging as a standout material for 2026 and aligns perfectly with the growing love for natural textures and organic materials.
With its rich tones and unique veining, green marble adds depth and character to kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces, and accent surfaces. It feels luxurious without being flashy, grounded, timeless, and elegant.
Why this trend works:
Natural stone brings texture, history, and a sense of permanence to a home. Green marble, in particular, feels bold yet calming, a perfect balance for modern interiors.
Trend 5: Climbing Houseplants Create Living Design
Houseplants are evolving from decor to design elements.
In 2026, climbing and trailing plants are being trained along walls, shelves, and architectural features, becoming part of the room itself. Instead of sitting passively in pots, greenery is allowed to grow, move, and soften the space.
This trend taps into biophilic design. The idea is that bringing nature indoors improves how we feel in our homes.
Why this trend works:
Climbing plants add warmth, texture, and life in a way no accessory can. They make a space feel cared for, personal, and genuinely lived in.
The Bigger Picture Behind the 2026 Trends
What ties all five of these trends together is a clear shift in mindset.
2026 design is about:
Personality over perfection
Warmth over minimalism
Intentional choices over safe defaults
Strong stripes, soft curves, statement lighting, natural materials, and living greenery all point to the same idea: homes should feel good to live in, not just good to photograph.
Final Thoughts
Whether you adopt one of these trends or all five, the takeaway is simple: design in 2026 is becoming more human. It’s expressive, grounded, and thoughtfully layered.
So, what do you think?
Is there a trend you’re excited to try or one you’re not sold on yet?