Cloud Dancer and colour capping: The interior design directions to watch out for in 2026
- Lifestyle (https://www.theage.com.au/lifestyle)
- Life & relationships (https://www.theage.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships)
- Interior design (https://www.theage.com.au/topic/interior-design-jak)
Design trends are often seen as something to be avoided, but in reality, they're an inevitable part of the creative process. Whether you're an experienced interior designer or a casual enthusiast, it's impossible to remain completely immune to the influence of popular trends. From subtle shifts in color palettes to bold design statements, these trends shape the way we interact with our living spaces.
In this article, we delve into the upcoming interior design trends for 2026, as predicted by industry experts. We'll explore the latest color forecasts, design styles, and emerging concepts that are set to make a splash in the world of interior design.
The Color Forecasters
Dulux, a renowned paint company, releases an annual color forecast for Australia, offering a glimpse into the upcoming trends. Their latest forecast introduces three color palettes, each with its own unique charm.
One of the palettes, Elemental, is expected to be a favorite among homeowners in 2026. It features warm neutrals like Hog Bristle Quarter and Blended Cream, enhanced with caramel and gold shades, as well as chocolate browns and steel blues. This palette is ideal for those looking to introduce color gradually, with its subtle and earthy tones.
Another palette, Cloud Dancer, has been chosen as Pantone's Color of the Year for 2026. While it may seem like a neutral choice, Dulux's color and design manager, Lauren Treloar, believes it will be popular for its versatility. However, she also highlights the Evoke palette, which is rich and nostalgic, with colors like blush pink, melon, and warm mustard, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere during cooler months.
Treloar also predicts the rise of color drenching, where the same color is used on walls, skirting boards, and architraves, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. Additionally, she introduces the concept of color capping, where shades of a similar color are used on the ceiling and walls, with deeper shades on the ceiling and lighter ones on the walls, adding a touch of luxury and dimension to a room.
The Stylist's Perspective
Jono Fleming, a Sydney-based stylist and author, offers a different perspective. He believes that 2026 will see a greater emphasis on pattern and layering. Fleming suggests embracing bold and expressive colors, such as purples, chartreuse, deep reds, and burgundy tones, which he encountered at the Milan Design Fair. These colors, he argues, reflect the world's current mood and add a sense of personality to interior spaces.
In terms of spatial planning, Fleming predicts a shift away from open-plan minimalist designs. Instead, he foresees a return to more defined spaces, with living rooms becoming distinct areas within open-plan homes. This trend allows for greater flexibility in creating division using curtains, joinery, levels, or furniture arrangements.
The Interior Designer's Take
James Treble, an interior designer, shares his insights on the upcoming trends. He emphasizes the importance of personalized spaces that reflect the owner's unique tastes. Treble encourages individuals to embrace their creativity and incorporate bold accent pieces into their existing designs. He suggests using colors like pink, orange, and navy blue, or exploring textures like chenille for a statement-making impact.
Treble also highlights the enduring popularity of earthy colors and organic shapes with curved edges on furniture, shelving, bedheads, and island benches. This trend, he notes, has been gaining traction for several years and is here to stay.
The Trend-Defying Decorator
Lynda Gardener, a Melbourne-based author, stylist, retailer, and designer, takes a different approach. She proudly declares that she doesn't follow trends, favoring a timeless and eclectic style. Gardener is drawn to autumnal tones, natural and neutral colors, and layers textures and patterns, particularly stripes.
Her design philosophy revolves around creating a layered and textured environment, mixing multiple patterns while maintaining a cohesive color palette. Gardener's current home features a checkered rug, striped cushions, and an old floral floor cushion, all in autumnal tones, resulting in a unique and unexpected aesthetic.
