Design trends that will sell in 2026

Minimalism is giving way to facades with depth, louvres, slat walls, veils, semi-transparent walls and obscured sightlines, according to Architect David Longpre (Longpre Architecture) 

When forecasting for 2026 trends in the real estate market, numbers and statistics tell only part of the story. Interior designers and architects have a clear influence on the housing market, from the way a home is staged for listing photos to the difference in market appeal between a Craftsman and mid-century modern home; every detail matters.

Agents should have a pulse not only on sales and listing data, but on the ongoing trends in the interior design and architectural world. Here’s what industry experts — Julie Lepper, an interior designer with Synthesis Design, and David Longpre, an architect with Longpre Architecture — say you should look out for in 2026.

Wrought iron

This traditional, elegant style can often be reminiscent of fairy tales or historical sites. Commonly used in home features such as stairs, railings, fencing, furniture, fire pits, and hardware, Lepper also sees wrought iron as doubling for sculptural art in a home.

“Wrought iron has an artisanal quality, hand-forged and durable,” they share. “It’s being embraced in both modern and classic interiors to anchor spaces.”

Lepper sees blackened or matte finishes being more popular in 2026, as they offer what they call “a bold but refined statement” for any indoor or outdoor space in a home.

The surge of layering

According to Longpre, 2026 is set to be the year of layers:

“Flat, boxy minimalism is giving way to facades with depth, louvres, slat walls, veils, semi-transparent walls, obscured sightlines,” he says. “Spaces that play with light and shadow, creating mystery and intimacy.”

Imagine a novel, with the stories unfolding throughout each chapter. This trend is about treating luxury with care and tenderness — no longer shouting. Longpre explains it’s in the rich moments of day-to-day life.

Colour drenching

Ever walk into a room where you feel like you were bathed in a single colour? In interior design, that technique is known as “colour drenching.”

“A single colour is applied across multiple surfaces in a room, including walls, ceilings, trim, furniture, and even decor to create a cohesive, immersive look,” says Lemmer. 

Colour drenching creates a “wrap-around effect,” emanating a mood that can be both cozy and dramatic. Another expert tip from Lemmer? If a room has architectural details such as crown moulding, using the same colour throughout can enhance the beauty of those structural elements.

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Silver paired with earthy tones and colour drenching are “in” for 2026   (Synthesis design)

Simplicity in architecture 

In 2026, opulence might not necessarily equal luxury.

“The McMansion era is over,” says Longpre. “Millennials don’t want houses that scream status; they want homes that work.”

Expect architectural designs that are more refined and functional, with a scale that feels more modest and restrained — spaces where the natural landscape and garden spaces take the lead.

“I’ve seen more clients choosing architecture as the quiet frame around nature rather than the star of the show,” he adds. “That humility is the new luxury.”

Silver over gold accents

While gold has represented “first place” in interior design for years, silver accents might be giving gold a run for its money in 2026.

“Silver feels like the natural evolution, sleeker, quieter and more understated,” comments Lemmer. “It reflects a moodier, quieter elegance rather than bold opulence.”

Experts expect to see silver paired with earthier tones such as burnt orange, rust, olive, and chocolate brown. Lemmer also recommends layering with natural materials such as stone, marble, and dark wood.

Softness

For some architects, mental health is starting to matter just as much as aesthetics when it comes to designing homes.

“In 2026, you’ll see a push toward softness — texture, wood, warmth, tactility,” Longpre shares. 

These are spaces designed for the mind just as much as the body. This is what Longpre calls “psycho-architecture.”

“Wellbeing doesn’t need to be an add-on for the elite; it can and should be baked into the architecture itself.”

What does softness look like when applied to architectural practice? Imagine curved lines, inviting textures, and warm lighting rather than sleek and cold looks.

Vintage and heirloom pieces

As we continue to implement environmentally-friendly ways to design and build homes in 2026, vintage and heirloom pieces feel like a natural trend to come into vogue in 2026.

Items such as eclectic accents and statement furniture pieces each come with their own unique story, something that homeowners and designers alike are appreciating more and more. 

“The slight wear and imperfections add authenticity and a ‘lived-in’ charm that new items can’t replicate,” adds Lemmer.

Thrift stores, antique shops, estate sales, flea markets and online marketplaces are hotspots for vintage and heirloom finds

Treat these as cues to test, not commandments. Translate them into better photos, thoughtful walkthroughs and sharper pricing conversations, then watch how buyers in your market respond. Agents who pair design intelligence with clear counsel will earn trust in 2026.