Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about home design! The year 2026 is shaping up to be a game-changer for interiors, and I, Elaine FitzGerald, a seasoned Interior and Lighting Designer, am here to spill the beans. After nearly a decade in France, I’ve brought my expertise to Donegal, where I run Eyra Interiors (https://www.eyrainteriors.com/), working on everything from new builds to refreshes across Ireland.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: I’m not a fan of the word trends. It feels so fleeting, doesn’t it? But, in a total contradiction, I’m obsessed with what’s gaining popularity. It’s like a guilty pleasure—I can’t help but wonder, What are people doing in their homes, and can I incorporate that into mine? Call me nosy, but it’s all in the name of inspiration!
So, what’s on the horizon for 2026? Let’s dive in.
And this is the part most people miss... Wellness-focused interiors are taking center stage. With neurodiversity becoming more widely recognized, sensory design is no longer a niche—it’s a necessity. Think softer lighting to combat harsh glares, greenery to promote grounding, and tactile materials that invite touch. Even solutions for echo-y rooms are gaining traction. It’s all about creating spaces that nurture both the mind and body.
But here’s where it gets controversial... The era of fully open-plan living is fading. Yes, you heard that right. After years of knocking down walls, homeowners are now craving boundaries. Pocket doors, glass partitions, and wooden dividers are making a comeback. Why? Because while open spaces are great for keeping an eye on little ones, they’re less ideal when those kids grow into screen-obsessed, bickering teens. Sometimes, you just need to close a door and reclaim your sanity.
Color palettes are also evolving. Bold statement alert: Scandi minimalism is making way for richer, warmer tones. Think deep walnuts, warm oaks, and neutrals with pink or red undertones. Even olive greens and russets are stepping into the spotlight. As a nation, we’re embracing color with confidence, trading beige Instagram-ready spaces for bold, personality-driven homes.
Speaking of personality, this is the trend I’m most excited about: homeowners are ditching cookie-cutter showhome styles in favor of interiors that reflect them. Fun, functional, and practical designs are in, while generic, staged looks are out. It’s about creating spaces that tell a story—yours.
Now, here’s a question to spark debate: Are we moving too far away from open-plan living, or is this shift exactly what modern families need? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
For more insights and inspiration, follow me on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078192243364) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/eyra_interiors/). Let’s make 2026 the year your home truly reflects you.
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Elaine FitzGerald
Elaine FitzGerald, founder of Eyra Interiors, is a qualified Interior and Lighting Designer. After nearly a decade in France, she now works with clients across Ireland on new builds, rebuilds, refurbs, and refreshes.
