__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Interiors styles, Craftsman, Tudor and English Cottage, but can be adapted to minimal spaces with refined millwork. Its popularity reflects a collective desire for warmth and layered personality after years of ultra-minimal design.
Plaster walls
Plaster, an age-old material, is having a contemporary moment. Applied in layers, it offers durability and subtle depth, creating a softness that simple paint cannot achieve. It’ s often used in focal areas like stove hoods or fireplaces, but also throughout homes with Spanish or Italian influences. Plaster softens interiors without cluttering them, making it perfect for minimalist spaces that still crave tactility and comfort.
Wall coverings
Wall coverings have evolved far beyond traditional wallpaper. Upholstered walls, grasscloth, leather, wood veneer on rolls, and hand-painted murals now offer incredible versatility. These treatments bring texture and depth, instantly elevating a room with minimal architectural change. Block-printed wallpaper suits Craftsman homes, handpainted Chinoiserie excels in formal settings, and grasscloth adapts almost anywhere. Wall coverings are trending because they allow homeowners to make a bold impact while fostering a sense of warmth and personality.
Ultimately, interiors in 2026 are about creating homes that feel lived-in, layered, and welcoming. Clients are gravitating toward spaces that tell a story, mixing eras, textures, and materials in a way that feels thoughtful yet effortless. Whether through warm woods, tactile finishes, earthy color palettes, or nuanced wall treatments, the common thread is a longing for refuge; a home that feels like a personal sanctuary.
We are entering a period where interiors are not just about aesthetics but about how a space makes you feel. People are embracing warmth, depth, and personality, crafting homes that are rich with narrative and imbued with life. In this moment, comfort is luxurious, texture is essential, and character is timeless. ■
◀ Project images credit: Laurey Glenn
▼ Photo credit: Kacey Gilpin
Mel Bean www. melbeaninteriors. com
Mel Bean is the founder and principal designer of Mel Bean Interiors, an award-winning luxury residential design firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With over 20 years of experience, Mel creates personalized interiors that reflect each client’ s unique lifestyle and taste, blending timeless style with thoughtful, approachable design.
modernhb. com 17