For the past decade, interiors have been defined by restraint. White, ecru and monochromatic palettes offered calm and clarity in a fast-moving world. I don’t believe in moving away from that foundation. Instead, it’s about evolving what we already have—building warmth, depth and meaning onto those neutral interiors with intention and restraint.
Today’s environments are curated rather than decorated. The most successful spaces feel collected over time, honoring quality, craftsmanship and materials that age with integrity.
WOOD: DEPTH, WARMTH, AND INTEGRITY
Wood is very much of the moment, yet timeless in its appeal. Rather than replacing existing finishes, I encourage layering in deeper tones—reclaimed, burled or richly grained woods that add warmth and authenticity. Kitchens, in particular, are returning to wood cabinetry, paired with sculptural metal accents for contrast and longevity.
BIG ART & HANDCRAFTED ART RUGS
Large-scale art anchors a space with confidence. Whether original works or thoughtfully chosen prints, big art brings focus to minimalist interiors. Handcrafted art rugs add another layer of expression, introducing texture, movement and warmth. These pieces work beautifully on the floor or as wall hangings, blurring the line between function and art.
COLOR DRENCHING: A REFINED EVOLUTION
Color drenching continues its bold moment, and now, it has evolved. I see it used more selectively and with nuance: an occasional sofa upholstered in velvet, a stone-clad niche or a single room wrapped in an earthy hue. Warm greens, caramels and jewel tones bring comfort and emotional resonance without overwhelming the space.
WARM TONES & TRAVELED MATERIALS
Natural materials endure because they age beautifully. Stone, bronze, ceramics and hand-blown glass develop patina and presence over time. Travel has deeply influenced my approach to curation, collecting glass, ceramics and tiles that reflect craft and culture. Murano glass, Japanese panels and Moroccan tiles, used sparingly, add depth and story rather than trend-driven decoration. Gorgeous stones that have also evolved will anchor the rooms in fireplaces, kitchens and baths.
TEXTILES: SOFTENING THE ARCHITECTURE
Textiles complete the environment. Velvets, tapestries, wall coverings, fringe and layered fabrics soften clean architectural lines and make spaces feel lived in. Antiques—carefully edited to feel cohesive—add patina and history that new pieces simply cannot replicate.
The interiors that resonate most in 2026 are not created all at once. They are thoughtful, warm and intentional—spaces that evolve over time, honoring the quiet minimalism of the past decade while embracing craftsmanship, texture and meaning.
STYLE NOTES
- Build warmth onto neutral foundations rather than replacing them
- Introduce wood, stone and bronze for depth and permanence
- Anchor rooms with large-scale art and handcrafted rugs
- Use color in refined, intentional moments
- Layer textiles to soften minimalist architecture
- Curate global pieces thoughtfully for a collected feel
Faith Berger is a St. Louis-based artist, working in acrylic, mixed medium collage. Visit her website at faithberger.com, find her on Instagram faithberger.art, or reach her via email at faith@faithberger.com.