In 2026, interiors are no longer just about how a space looks — they’re about how it makes you feel. Pinterest’s latest decor forecast reveals a move toward homes that are expressive, playful and emotionally rich, mirroring the same shift we’re seeing in beauty, fashion and wellness. This decor design prioritises joy over perfection, texture over trends, and personality over polish.
Style director, Louise Hilsz, unpacks this forecast.
Neo Deco: Modern Glamour, Softened
Glamour returns in 2026, but with a lighter touch. Neo Deco borrows the confidence of Art Deco — curved lines, metallic accents, luxe fabrics — and reinterprets it for modern living. Think velvet armchairs, sculptural lighting, chrome details and marble finishes, styled effortlessly rather than formally. It’s the interior equivalent of a bold lip paired with fresh skin — elevated but not overdone.
Style Tip: Choose one statement piece and keep the rest relaxed. Neo Deco works best when it feels lived-in, not styled to perfection.
Resene Aquila Wallpaper Collection DGILA101 available from Resene ColorShops. Tom Dixon Melt Shade Bronze, $2670. A&C Homestore Nolan chair, $950. Home Elements Natural Marble Vase, $119.
Playful Interiors: When Whimsy Becomes Chic
Pinterest data shows a growing appetite for interiors that don’t take themselves too seriously. FunHaus styling introduces bold stripes, sculptural shapes and graphic patterns — but in a curated, fashion-forward way. It’s playful without being childish, joyful without being chaotic.
Style Tip: Treat playful decor like an accessory. If you're unsure, a bold moment —such as a striped wall or a statement chair—is enough to elevate the entire space. But if you dare (like me), go all out!
World Of Craft Emanuela Cushion Cover, $130. Temple & Webster Observatory Light, $500. Resene Suzie Q paint available from Resene ColorShops. Bulbsquare dining chair, $453.
Afrohemian Living: Soulful, Collected, Global
2026 embraces a deeper connection to craftsmanship and culture. Afrohemian interiors layer hand-woven textures, artisanal ceramics and vibrant textiles with relaxed, modern pieces. This trend feels soulful and intentional — every object tells a story, much like a carefully curated wardrobe.
Style Tip: Focus on quality over quantity. A few meaningful pieces create more impact than filling a room with “boho” decor.
Resene Papis Wallpaper Collection 33797 available from Resene ColorShops. Flux Boutique Spiral Hand-Painted Ceramic, $99. Resene Brandy Punch available from Resene ColorShops. Città Rasmus Woollen Cushion Cover, $135.
Cool Blue: The New Calm
Soft cool blue tones emerge as a key colour influence for 2026 — calming, fresh and quietly confident. This shade is restorative, making it ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, and wellness-inspired spaces. Paired with warm neutrals, blush or timber, it creates a sense of balance and ease.
Style Tip: Think spa energy, not seaside. Muted blues feel more grown-up and timeless.
Bed Threads Lagoon Duvet Cover, $272. Resene Excalibur available from Resene ColorShops. Coco Republic Laurent sofa, $3355. Alex & Sony Iridescent Blue Rarotonga, $170.
Poetcore Interiors: Living Like a Love Letter
Quiet, reflective and deeply personal, Poetcore emerges as one of 2026’s most emotionally resonant interior aesthetics. Rooted in literature, nostalgia and slow living, Poetcore spaces feel like a pause from the outside world. Think writer’s desks, overflowing bookshelves, soft lamps, ceramic vessels and objects that feel chosen rather than styled. These homes don’t shout — they whisper.
Style Tip: Layer warm, worn textures with personal objects and soft lighting — create a space that feels curated, not perfect.
French Country Collections S-Curved Book End, $99. Resene Fashion for Walls Wallpaper Collection 2537V-11available from Resene ColorShops. Furniture By Design Irish Coast Desk, $2999. Early Settler Maldon 3 Drawer Bookcase, $999.
Gimme Gummy: Soft, Sensory, Comfort-Led
Rounded shapes, glossy finishes and tactile textures define Gimme Gummy — a trend that taps into our desire for comfort and softness. Curved sofas, plush cushions and sculptural accessories invite touch and relaxation, turning homes into feel-good sanctuaries.
Style Tip: Stick to a tonal palette to keep the look chic rather than novelty, ie all pastel or all bright.
Eeeza 15-Drawer Modern Minimalist Metal Chest, $1360. Modscene Outdoor Chair, $549. Top Furniture Soda Glass Coffee Table, $550. Stonebaths Hugi Coloured Resin Basin, $495.
The Beauty of 2026 Living
At its core, Pinterest’s 2026 decor forecast reflects a broader lifestyle shift — the desire for spaces that nurture, inspire and reflect who we are. Just like beauty in 2026, interiors are:
Less about perfection, more about feeling good
Confident, expressive and emotionally driven
Designed for joy, not validation
Because the most beautiful spaces are the ones that feel like you.
Here’s some inspiration.