Design Details I am Paying Attention To for 2026
As I look toward 2026, I find myself less interested in what is new and more focused on what endures. The design details I am paying attention to now are rooted in materials that age with grace and homes that support real life without sacrificing beauty. Texture has become one of the most important tools in creating depth, especially in restrained palettes. Subtle irregularities, shadow, and tactile surfaces allow a space to feel layered and finished without relying on bold pattern or color.
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.”
I am particularly drawn to natural finishes that tell a story over time. Handmade lighting with visible patina, loosely woven sheer drapery, and handwoven textiles bring warmth and dimension while allowing light to filter softly through a space. Charcoal drawings and hand rendered artwork introduce motion and depth in a way that feels timeless and expressive, grounding interiors without overpowering them. These elements share a common quality: they age beautifully and encourage everyday use, reminding us that a home is meant to be lived in, not curated like a museum.
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Beyond materials, I am thinking more deeply about the ideologies that shape a well designed home. Comfort has become foundational, not as an afterthought but as a guiding principle. Spaces should feel grounding and lived in, with furniture and layouts that invite use rather than require care. Function is equally important, particularly when it comes to supporting everyday rituals. A successful home makes room for muddy boots, daily clutter, and busy schedules while still feeling considered and intentional.
Restraint is another principle guiding my work. Not everything needs to be expressed at once. Allowing materials to breathe and leaving space for homes to evolve over time creates interiors that feel calm, flexible, and lasting. This mindset is especially important when thinking about the idea of a forever home, where the balance between investment and longevity matters. Prioritizing structure, layout, and high touch materials creates a strong foundation, while furniture, art, and layered finishes can shift as life changes.
I am also continuing to return to time honored materials that are both durable and environmentally responsible. Solid wood, stone, linen, wool, and untreated metals have been used for centuries for good reason. They age honestly, require fewer replacements, and bring a sense of quiet permanence to a home. Looking ahead, these are the details and principles that feel most relevant to me, not as trends, but as a way of designing spaces meant to last.
“I want to see things age.”