These Decades-Old (Grandma-Approved) Décor Trends Are Back in 2026

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Something interesting is happening in interior design right now. While minimalism dominated for years, 2026 is shaping up to be the year homeowners rediscover the appeal of architectural character, handcrafted elements, and patterns with personality.

The shift isn’t about recreating your grandmother’s living room. It’s about borrowing techniques and details that have worked for centuries and applying them with a fresh eye. Here’s what’s gaining momentum—and how to incorporate these looks before they hit saturation.

Architectural molding is back (and it’s not just for old houses)

Decorative molding might sound like something you’d find in a Victorian brownstone, but designers are using it to add dimension to all kinds of spaces—including modern builds that lack built-in character.

Tom Cox of Ham Interiors explains the thinking behind this approach in Homes and Gardens: “When we start a project, architectural detailing is one of the first things we consider […] Thes...