The 2026 Design Edit

A closer look at the ideas shaping the year ahead, from the interior styles we gravitate toward to expressive materials and thoughtful product innovations for better living.

- Words: Disa Tan

01 Defining styles

Our homes are becoming sanctuaries shaped by ease, expression and a sense of escape.

Softer forms, layered textures and thoughtful details bring depth to compact spaces, reflecting a growing desire for comfort and individuality.

CLUTTERCORE

What happens when minimalism feels too bare? Cluttercore steps in with a more expressive, collected way of styling. It celebrates meaningful layering through art, books, vintage finds, textiles and travel keepsakes arranged with intention rather than excess. Grouping items by colour, height or theme keeps surfaces harmonious, while thoughtful placement ensures the space still feels open and inviting. Done right, cluttercore turns everyday corners into personal vignettes that feel like a quiet walk through your memories.

COZYMAXXING

Embracing comfort as a design language, this trend favours mood, softness and sensory calm over visual weight. Gentle lighting, breathable textured fabrics, plush seating and subtle scent or sound cues create a soothing, cocoon-like feel. Rounded silhouettes and tactile finishes add ease without overwhelming the eye. It's a thoughtful approach for spacious homes, where open layouts can feel a little bare.

VIBRANT TROPICS

Biophilic design is becoming more expressive, embracing bold botanicals, warm tropical hues and curated greenery that feel authentic to our heat and climate. The aesthetic is already surfacing in cafés, residential developments and the growing trend of using outdoor furniture indoors. Its natural textures and lively palettes inject new life into urban homes, creating a vibrant yet easygoing atmosphere.