As House Month at Guaranteed Irish gets underway, we’re shining a spotlight on the brands and experts shaping the future of Irish homes. Proud Guaranteed Irish member and House Month sponsor Crown Paints is leading the conversation, bringing colour expertise to the fore. In this feature, Kathryn Lloyd, Crown Colour Specialist, shares her insights on the interior trends set to define 2026 - from nostalgic influences and comforting palettes to the cultural moments inspiring how we decorate today.
Many of the decor trends we expect to see in 2026 are rooted in comfort, nostalgia and small touches that show personality or are reflected in cultural moments. We also anticipate upcoming film releases will have an impact on design choices, including the return of The Devil Wears Prada, Emerald Fennell’s take on Wuthering Heights, and the highly anticipated season four of The White Lotus.
This year, we’re seeing a shift to styles that feel familiar yet refreshed as designers look to reimagine what it means to be ‘classic’. Think well-loved fabrics used in modern ways and heritage details, like panelling or spindle furniture, paired with simple, contemporary shapes.
In the same vein, retro 70s style is making a comeback, but it’s more about the mood than a full throwback. We’re seeing rounded shapes, fun patterns and a love of cosy, nostalgic colours – including coloured enamel and avocado bathrooms. Greens such as Woodland Wanderer and Evergreen Echo can help bring this look to life, offering a nature-inspired palette that feels both retro and fresh.
2016 is also a key year when looking at the colours that we’re seeing rise in popularity now. Brown was hugely popular 10 years ago as interiors shifted from cold greys in search of cosier tones. This year, we’re seeing a resurgence in the popularity of browns from mushroom shades to chocolates, as people once again seek comforting spaces – this time in refuge from screens and technology.
For those using brown hues such as Potted History or Chocolate, colour drenching is a great way to cocoon a room and create a feeling of relaxation. I’d recommend using this technique in spaces where you unwind after a busy day – such as your living room or bedroom – and choosing accessories like rugs and cushions in deep shades to extend the colour drenching look even further.
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