Jack Thompson for Hallie Henley Design
Furniture has an allure that allows you to carry it with you to new locales and effortlessly rearrange it within your home. Whether sourced from a local garage sale or a chic boutique, these items tend to become long-standing companions. As we step into 2026, if you’re yearning for a change, check out these expert-endorsed furniture trends to discover how you can weave them into your living space.
Alexandra Killion, the creative mind behind Alexandra Killion Interiors in Houston, Texas, is the go-to for interior design expertise.
Emily “Bird” Lambert, the visionary founder and lead designer of Bird’s Eye Design in Atlanta, Georgia, brings her innovative touch to the table.
Sarah Scott, the proprietress and creative force at Sarah Scott Designs in Wilmington, North Carolina, offers her distinctive perspective.
Laurey W. Glenn; Stylist: Matthew Gleason
The era of pristine whites, creamy tans, and dusty taupes has given way to more opulent shades like vibrant burgundy, deep emerald, rich chocolate, and zesty mustard. As Alexandra Killion, the Houston-based founder of Alexandra Killion Interiors, notes, these hues are becoming the new go-to neutral tones for sofas, chairs, and cabinets, offering depth and personality without overwhelming the space.
As the cost of living rises, designers and consumers alike are seeking local consignment stores and antique shops. Emily “Bird” Lambert, the creative force behind Bird’s Eye Design in Atlanta, emphasizes the timeless charm of antique furniture, noting its solid wood, classic lines, and heritage value. Today, it’s not just cabinets and sideboards that are being reborn—it’s upholstered pieces as well, finding new life through re-upholstery.
Every day, Lambert scours Facebook Marketplace for pre-owned treasures to be reborn as something new. “In 2026, upcycling is not only economical—it’s a way to infuse your home with character, history, and sustainability,” she concludes.
Sofas, chairs, and even side tables are embracing the skirt trend once more. Sarah Scott, the owner and creative lead at Sarah Scott Designs in Wilmington, North Carolina, observes a notable increase in the appeal of traditional design elements, noting that “skirted furniture is the quintessential, time-honored choice.” (Outside the realm of furniture, skirts can elevate the look of a pedestal sink, giving a powder room a more dynamic feel.)
Jack Thompson for Hallie Henley Design
Killion predicts that “curves will reign supreme in the realm of furnishings, from rounded sofa backs to chairs with scroll-like arms.” This throwback to English heritage pieces is both enduring and, after years of angular styles, refreshingly contemporary.
Creative Tonic Design / Julie Soefer
Make no mistake, Lambert clarifies, she’s not referring to the chunky, slip-covered sofas of yesteryear. “We’re talking about bespoke piping on footstools, flowing fringe on coffee tables, and fabric inserts within cabinets,” she elaborates. “Upholstered beds are making a comeback, too, with vibrant hues, plush velvet, and more modern silhouettes that exude luxury and freshness.”
For years, perfectly matched furniture sets dominated home decor. However, in 2026, Killion asserts that “spaces will feel more curated over time, with a blend of vintage finds, modern pieces, and cherished antiques,” creating an environment that feels purposeful and reflects one’s unique narrative.
With an aesthetic reminiscent of the elegant style of Nancy Meyers, Killion forecasts a surge in the use of linen and other relaxed, natural textiles in upholstery and slipcovers. These materials will create spaces that are inviting yet exquisitely tailored, providing a counterpoint to overly formal aesthetics and a gentle reminder that homes can be both refined and lived in.
