If you’ve been enjoying a slower summer at home, chances are you’ve already started spotting little things you’d love to refresh in 2026. The good news? This year’s trends are less about “perfect” homes and more about spaces that feel warm, practical and genuinely you.
Here are the interior design trends our experts are most excited to see in Kiwi homes this year:
Sustainability, but make it liveable
Healthier, lower-fuss materials
We’re continuing to see homeowners lean towards products that feel good to live with - think natural textures, quality finishes and materials chosen with longevity in mind. Natural fibres and low-emission options remain popular as people focus on comfort and indoor wellbeing.
Energy smart window treatments
Window furnishings are playing a bigger role in comfort and power bills, especially when they’re chosen for insulation as well as style. Thermal linings and honeycomb-style blinds are still a smart, simple upgrade for year round comfort.
Smart home features that work quietly in the background
“Smart” design in 2026 isn’t always flashy - it’s often the quiet upgrades that make everyday life easier. Motorised blinds are a great example: clean, modern and easy to control by remote, app or Smart Home setup.
Warm neutrals are evolving
Cool greys are still around, but the overall mood is shifting warmer and richer. Think layered neutrals and earthy tones such as sand, oat, clay and cocoa. These are often used tone on tone to create a calm, grounded feel.
If you want an easy update, start small:
- swap cushions/throws for warmer tones
- add texture (linen-look, boucle, woven finishes)
- choose flooring and window treatments that sit quietly in the background while your décor does the talking
Soft minimalism: less clutter, more comfort
Yes, “less is more” is still going strong, but it’s softer now. Instead of stark minimalism, homes are feeling calmer through better storage, fewer “busy” patterns, and more focus on cosy finishes and lived-in comfort.
We’re also seeing more soft curves (think rounded sofas and gentle arches) which keep minimal spaces feeling warm, not cold.
Practical flooring is having a moment
In busy Kiwi households, we’re seeing strong demand for floors that look great and handle real life - especially waterproof, low maintenance hard flooring styles (like hybrid and vinyl planks) that work beautifully through kitchens, living areas and high traffic zones.
Layered window treatments
Sheers are still a favourite for that soft, natural light and we’re seeing more layering too: sheers for daytime glow, paired with drapes (or blinds, depending on the space) for cosiness, privacy and versatility.
Your 2026 refresh is just a free consultation away
If you’re considering updating your home with new flooring, curtains or blinds, the Harrisons team can help you choose something that suits your style, budget and lifestyle.
We’ll bring the showroom to you, so you can see samples in your own light, in your own space and get a clear, no-obligation measure and quote.
Book a FREE in-home consultation today.
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