As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: design is becoming more personal, more layered, and more reflective of how people truly live. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, homeowners are seeking spaces that feel authentic, warm, and thoughtfully crafted to stand the test of time.
To explore what’s ahead, we asked some of our trusted Alair Wisconsin design partners to share what they’re most excited about in the year to come. Their insights highlight a shared theme we deeply believe in at Alair Homes: great design starts with listening, evolves through collaboration, and results in homes that feel both intentional and lived in.
Below, hear directly from the designers and industry experts who inspire our work every day.
Warm, Layered Interiors with Lasting Character
Kaitlan Schick Design – Green Bay
“In 2026, I think interior design is going to trend toward warm, layered interiors that feel lived in. Historically, British interiors do this really well, and I predict inspiration being pulled from those.”
We’re seeing a clear shift away from stark, overly minimal spaces and toward interiors that feel collected over time. Think rich materials, thoughtful pattern play, and rooms that tell a story. This approach celebrates comfort and character—spaces that feel welcoming the moment you step inside.
Learn more about Kaitlan Schick Design → http://kaitlanschick.com
2026 Trend-Eclectica
Melissa Couture, Senior Designer
Designs of the Interior
This 2026 trend embraces the “traveled and gathered” look, shifting away from perfection and toward spaces that tell a story. Often referred to as “Eclectica,” it celebrates intentional layering and curated collections, where surfaces are styled with meaningful pieces and global finds, from African and Asian artifacts to vintage textiles and artwork.
With a “more is more” philosophy, the look combines rich textures and warm, earthy color palettes. Think tapestries hung as art over grasscloth walls, a hide layered atop a hand-knotted vintage rug, and bold accents balanced with grounded neutrals. Rooted in nature and global heritage, this style feels less like a passing trend and more like a way of living, one that creates depth, personality, and timeless character in a home.
2026 Trends with Alair Homes Milwaukee Design Partners:
Personality Is the Point
Kelly Marie Brainerd, NCIDQ, EDAC
KMB Design | Consulting
Personality isn’t a trend—it’s the foundation.
Kelly believes the most meaningful spaces are created by deeply understanding how a client lives and what makes them feel at home. Form, function, color, pattern, texture, comfort, and ease all play a role—but listening is where great design truly begins.
“At KMB Design | Consulting, we are passionate about crafting spaces that deeply resonate with you. Exceptional interior design goes beyond aesthetics—it’s a reflection of your unique vision, uncovered through thoughtful research and collaboration.”
The result is environments that balance beauty and practicality while expressing personality in surprising, personal ways. The imagery from Kelly’s work showcases how no two designs look alike—because no two clients are alike.
Explore KMB Design | Consulting → kmbdesignconsulting.com
Staying True to Yourself
Leslie Dohr, ASID
Leslie Dohr Interior Design LLC
“One of my favorite ways to talk to clients about their project is to ask them to stay true to their own design preferences and not be swayed by what’s trending on social media or what their friends think.”
Leslie emphasizes that individuality always outlasts trends. While she wouldn’t label it a trend outright, she notes a strong response to richer color palettes, increased use of wood, and a move away from gray-and-white interiors.
“When no two people are alike, no two designs should be either.”
This return to warmth and depth supports spaces that feel grounded, timeless, and distinctly personal.
Discover Leslie Dohr Interior Design → lesliedohrinteriordesign.com
Lighting That Evolves with Your Home
Caitlin Frye
Sales Associate, Visual Comfort & Co. – Milwaukee
Mixed metal finishes are taking center stage in 2026.
By combining metal tones, lighting becomes more flexible and sophisticated—designed to grow with your home rather than compete with future changes. This approach creates a curated, timeless look that adapts beautifully as styles evolve.
See lighting inspiration from Visual Comfort & Co. → visualcomfort.com
The Quiet Luxury of Alabaster
Stephanie Uzzardo
Sr. Business Development Specialist, Visual Comfort & Co. – Milwaukee
Alabaster continues to make an impact thanks to its soft translucency and natural elegance. This fine-grained mineral brings warmth and depth to lighting and decorative pieces, offering a subtle glow that feels refined yet approachable.
Its timeless quality makes it ideal for homeowners seeking understated sophistication—materials that elevate a space without overwhelming it.
Learn more about alabaster lighting → visualcomfort.com
Looking Ahead
Across every perspective, one message stands out: 2026 is less about chasing trends and more about creating homes that feel personal, intentional, and enduring.
At Alair, we’re proud to collaborate with designers and partners who share this philosophy. Together, we help homeowners create spaces that reflect who they are today—and support how they want to live tomorrow.
Stay tuned as we continue sharing inspiration, insights, and real projects throughout 2026.
