Goodbye Minimalism: The Styles Set to Dominate Homes in 2026

After years of minimalism being the style everyone followed, 2026 is all about one thing: showing your own personality at home. Yelp’s latest trend report says people are using their walls, stairs, bathrooms, spare rooms, and pretty much every corner of their homes to express who they are and what they love. And we’re here for it.

The Return of Gallery Walls

Yelp says gallery walls aren’t slowing down, but they are changing. Instead of neat rows and matching frames, people are choosing items that feel personal. Searches for “custom framing near me” are up 329%, and “specializing in framing services” is up 63%. That means more people want to frame things that matter to them.

These new gallery walls aren’t filled with standard art prints. They’re made of meaningful pieces. Vintage plates are up 96%, framed posters are up 108%, and even photo booth strips are popping up. It’s a nostalgic, fun mix where anything you love, from a concert poster to a postcard, can go on the wall.

Stairs Are Now a Key Design Focus

If you’ve been overlooking your stairs, 2026 is a good time to change that. Searches for “stair runner installation” are up 402%, and searches for “custom carpet installation” have climbed even higher. People are turning a basic part of the home into a real design feature.

This trend leans into dopamine decor, with patterned runners, bold paint, and even tiled risers becoming popular choices. If you rent or don’t want anything permanent, peel-and-stick wallpaper on the risers can give you the same hit of color without the commitment.

Bathrooms Are Going Vintage

Bathrooms are getting a big boost this year too. Searches for “bathroom remodeling contractors” are up 2,520%, which shows homeowners are ready to bring more personality into these practical spaces.

Trend watchers say classic pieces are coming back. Clawfoot tubs, brass fixtures, and pedestal sinks are all returning. The style mixes old and new, pairing something like a 1930s sink with rich, modern tile for a look that feels both nostalgic and comfortable.

Wellness Is Top of Mind: Why Health Can No Longer Be an Afterthought

It’s clear that everyone benefits from a dose of self-care, and while that often takes the form of a long bath or a quiet yoga session, homeowners are planning something much more ambitious for 2026.

Many are now converting extra rooms into dedicated wellness retreats, and recent spikes in searches for “sauna installation” show just how quickly the idea is catching on. Wellness design is shifting from surface-level style to intentional, daily practices that turn the home into a place built for restoration, comfort, and a sense of calm you won’t want to step away from.

Playful tile is stepping into the spotlight

To bring the whole trend into focus, the clean, all-white look is finally losing steam. Searches for tile contractors have jumped 351%, a clear sign that homeowners are craving richer color and tactile materials, from glossy zellige to warm terracotta.

Designers are also pushing tile far beyond the usual spots. Laundry rooms, stair risers, and even fireplace surrounds are becoming canvases for pattern and personality. Whether used as a subtle accent or splashed across an entire wall, one thing is obvious this year: safe and simple are out, while bold choices are taking center stage. If you want to dive deeper into what’s trending this summer, you can explore the full report on Yelp’s website.

FAQs

1. How can homeowners add personality without making permanent changes?

Removable wallpaper, modular shelving, bold textiles, and curated accessories let you experiment with color and pattern while keeping the structure of the home intact.

2. Are maximalist trends more expensive than minimalist ones?

Not necessarily. Many people build character using thrifted finds, DIY art, vintage materials, and small statement pieces instead of full-scale renovations.

3. What colors are expected to dominate in 2026 interior design?

Rich earthy tones, jewel colors, and warm neutrals are rising. Designers are also seeing a return of muted pastels paired with deeper accent shades.

4. How can small spaces embrace the 2026 trends without feeling cluttered?

Strategic layering helps. Choose one statement moment—tile, artwork, or a patterned runner—then keep surrounding elements simple to maintain balance.

5. Are natural materials still popular?

Yes. Wood, stone, clay, and handmade finishes remain in demand because they add warmth and texture, especially as homeowners shift away from sterile minimalism.

6. Will technology play a role in 2026 home trends?

Smart lighting, automated wellness features, and app-controlled fixtures are becoming more common as people seek homes that are both personal and functional.

7. What trends are emerging for outdoor spaces?

Homeowners are extending personality outdoors with colorful tile patios, painted garden walls, curated seating areas, and small wellness corners designed for fresh-air relaxation.

8. How do homeowners keep bold choices from feeling overwhelming?

Using a consistent color palette helps tie everything together. Many choose one “hero” material or pattern and repeat it in subtle ways throughout the home.

9. Are vintage pieces still easy to integrate with modern décor?

Absolutely. Mixing eras is becoming a key design strategy. A single vintage item—like a mirror, chair, or light fixture—can ground a modern room and add instant character.

10. What’s the best way to try trends before committing long-term?

Start with low-risk updates like artwork swaps, accent cushions, peel-and-stick tile, or painted furniture. These small changes let you test a look without big investments.