5 design trends to ignore in 2026

After decades in the industry I’ve noticed that I have a very strong ability to predict trends, and anticipate which trends have better longevity, and which are “fluff trends” that should be ignored. Though this will likely spark a great deal of criticism and debate, the fluff trends are overwhelming right now and I have to say my piece.  ;)

1.        Wavy/rippled tile

Okay so maybe it’s more of an acquired taste than a fluff trend, but I don’t know who thought this was a good idea. It just looks old and sloppy. Even if you find a version of this that is attractive, the installation is more cumbersome, and I never intentionally make my installers’ job harder. Pass on the ugly sloppy tile.

2.        Luxury vinyl plank

This is not so much a fluff trend as a popular material that is widely misused because it’s cheap (or used to be). There’s a place for this type of flooring. It’s the laundry room. The mudroom. A home gym. A craft room (if you must). Should it be the primary flooring throughout an enormous 2 story home? No. Just no.

Consult with a designer if you’re not sure. There are exceptions to most rules.

3.        Wall trim

I’ll be clear. I have a passion for custom millwork, wainscoting, and cabinetry. But in the Bay Area, where most homes are open concept, or have been converted to open concept, many flaunting ridiculous 20-foot ceilings, this Midwest inspired trend should be used very carefully and selectively. If you're one of the lucky few to have ceilings that are anything shy of 12 feet (paired of course with a surplus of cash) call a designer to help you source quality trim and installers. The trim trend is best suited to traditional style homes/rooms with lower more accessible ceilings, much like wallpaper, bringing me to my next trend…

4.        Wallpaper accent walls

I am a huge fan of wallpaper.  But not of wallpaper accent walls. It just feels lazy, cheap, and wimpy. If you can’t stomach wallpaper in the whole room, don’t do it. If you have the budget but not the balls, call a designer. They will tell you if it’s a good idea or not and even recommend a specific material and installer for you (if you’ve not already committed to one). Click here to book a “One & Done” consultation.

5.        Stone sink aprons

THIS is a fluff trend. I’m seeing many posts lately with a stone sink apron that mimics a farmhouse sink. Look people, if you don’t like real farmhouse sinks, don’t get one. If you love them, get one. To me, the stone façade looks ridiculous, interrupting the flow of the beautiful cabinetry for no apparent reason. As always, if you LOVE this look, and don't have any plans to sell, go for it. Farmhouse sinks are awesome. Fake farmhouse sinks I just don't understand.