Key Points
The 2026 design trends are fabric-heavy and warm-toned, and we’ve seen many of them in decades past.Valances, ruffle-skirted chairs, and trundle beds are among the pieces we may see more of in 2026.Sophisticated ’70s-inspired design—plus vintage accents from all eras—will be popular.
You might think of valances and trundle beds as nostalgic design features, but designers say they’re making a comeback in 2026—along with three other old-school features. We spoke with interior designers about which five older interior trends they believe we are likely to see again in 2026.
As we move away from minimalist, sterile designs in the second half of the decade, a desire for nostalgic, warm, and vintage styles and textures is likely to dominate this year, ranging from ’70s themes to older furniture pieces getting a modern uplift. Find out more below.
Meet the Expert
Susan Feffer is the principal designer at Chain Bridge Design.
Sydney Levy is a designer for Anthony Wilder Design/Build.
Ashley Biscan is an interior design expert for Floor & Decor.
Trundle Beds
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Whether in kids’ rooms or guest rooms, trundle beds are trending this year, according to Susan Feffer, principal designer at Chain Bridge Design, and they look more chic than you might remember.
“The new trundle beds are versatile and look good in various spaces, replacing daybeds and offering a place to lounge and read while also providing auxiliary sleeping arrangements,” Feffer says.
They’re less expensive than buying multiple bed frames, small space-friendly, and sleepover-friendly.
Ruffle-Skirted Accent Chairs
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“Another standout this year is the return of the ruffle-skirted accent chair,” Sydney Levy, a designer for Anthony Wilder Design/Build says. “[It’s] a timeless detail that softens modern interiors and brings warmth and charm to clean-lined spaces.”
Not only do accent chairs with ruffled skirts feel whimsical and nostalgic, these skirts work well to cover unappealing chair legs you prefer to keep out of sight, or help turn the area under the chair into extra storage space.
’70s Revival
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According to Ashley Biscan, interior design expert from Floor & Decor, 2026 will see a modern take on design trends from the 1970s.
However, the 1970s details will read less kitschy and more elevated.
“When balanced with clean lines and refined finishes, these retro influences feel inviting and distinctly current,” Biscan says.
What this looks like in practice? “Saturated hues, sculptural forms, and rich wood finishes,” Biscan says, for example. “Deep ambers, soft burgundies, and smoky neutrals pair[ed] with geometric patterns, curved silhouettes, and tactile materials to bring depth and personality to kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.”
Valances
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You’ll notice that many of the 2026 are fabric-heavy, with upholstered trundle beds and skirted chairs making the list. Another place you’ll see more fabric and more structure this year? Window treatments.
It’s a sign that more formal flair is returning to design, according to Feffer.
“Valances add elegance and formality to a space, as well as structure,” she says. “It’s also a way to add delicate trim, a small touch that makes a difference, as well as a way to introduce an accent color into the room.”
And valances aren’t limited to windows; you might see them pop up behind—or in place of— headboards, too, for a canopy-like effect.
Vintage Decor
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Vintage home decor is a priority for many designers again in 2026.
“We’re always drawn to accessories with personality and soul, true one-of-a-kind pieces that aren’t mass-produced,” Levy says, adding that she’s recently been sourcing vintage crystal and artisanal textiles “to add depth, texture, and character.”