Christopher de Bod Reveals the Interior Design Trends Set to Define 2026

As we look ahead to 2026, the world of interior design continues to evolve toward authenticity, sustainability, and emotional connection. Few understand this balance better than Christopher de Bod, founder of Christopher de Bod Interiors and creative force behind KAPITAL Design Emporium. Known for crafting spaces that tell a story and reflect the people who inhabit them, Christopher blends timeless elegance with modern innovation.

In this exclusive interview, Christopher shares insights into the design trends set to shape 2026 — from warm, earthy palettes and sculptural forms to sustainable craftsmanship and the seamless integration of technology.

Q: In your view, what are the top three décor or interior-design trends that will dominate 2026?
A: There are a couple of trends that will feature strongly in 2026. A few of these trends have already started making a strong appearance.
• Warm, earthy, and grounded colour palettes
• Curved and sculptural furniture and spaces with natural and tactile materials
• Multifunctional spaces and sustainable craftsmanship

Q: How do you see the balance between timeless elegance and trend-forward pieces playing out in 2026 interiors?
A: I always say that there’s a time and place for everything. It is up to the creator of the space—be that a designer or homeowner—to assess the space and decide whether it needs a timeless piece or something a little more trend-forward. It’s all about the people using the space and how their story is being told in it.

Q: With your online store, KAPITAL Design Emporium, offering curated objets and décor accents, how are you selecting pieces that will remain relevant in 2026 and beyond?
A: I have tried to keep a very open mind when selecting pieces for the store, but at the end of the day, it is a collection of the things that I really love. So it’s very much about how the item looks and feels, and about how it makes me feel. I believe that a well-chosen piece will resonate with customers and that they will want to have these pieces in their spaces.

Q: How will material choices (e.g., sustainable materials, heritage layering, textures) evolve in 2026 interior design projects?
A: Materials—and the essence of them—is one of the trends we discussed earlier. In my opinion, this is going to be a key driver of material choices. Consumers are looking for materials that make them feel something—either by touch or by the story behind the materials, such as how they are sourced, what they are made of, and the story they tell.

Q: What role will colour palettes play in 2026 — are there specific shades or combinations you believe are emerging or resurging?
A: Colours have moved far from the grey cocoons we were all locking ourselves in a while ago. Warm, earthy, and grounded colour palettes are on the forecast for 2026. Instead of the cool whites, greys, and minimalism of recent years, designers are favouring warmer, nature-derived hues: terracotta, clay, warm mocha, olive/forest green, and sandy beige.

Q: How do you anticipate the spatial layout or architecture of interiors adapting in 2026 (for example: flexible living, multi-functional spaces, indoor/outdoor blur)?
A: Multifunctional spaces and craftsmanship are key drivers for me in various ways. Real estate or space is expensive, and multifunctional layouts ensure maximum efficiency—using every square metre purposefully throughout the day. Instead of building larger footprints, flexible spaces reduce material and energy demand by serving multiple purposes. Fewer walls, partitions, and single-use furnishings result in reduced environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability through adaptability rather than demolition and rebuild.

Q: Technology and design often intersect — how do you see tech (smart lighting, responsive elements, AR/VR for spaces) influencing décor trends in the coming year?
A: The intersection of technology and interior design is becoming increasingly influential—and for good reason. Smart lighting systems are becoming more advanced. Adaptable colour temperature, dimming, motion/occupancy sensing, and circadian rhythm alignment are now mainstream in 2026-oriented predictions. Lighting is also moving from just function to being a design element. Built-in strips, hidden illumination within architecture, and sculptural fixtures that double as art are all becoming staples in space design. Adaptive lighting design also ties in strongly with the design of multifunctional spaces, and careful thought needs to be given to how the lighting adapts to the use of the space. Technology, however, will become less “techy” and more organic—seamlessly integrating into the environment. Switches and controls will look less gadgety and more like part of the environment.

Q: How important will artisan craftsmanship and curated pieces (versus mass-produced items) be in setting 2026’s signature look?
A: One’s space should tell the story of one’s journey, as a well-known person once said. This story is illustrated by the pieces you bring together in a space. The renewed appreciation for craftsmanship shows that we have become bored with—or have outgrown—the desire for high-fashion, disposable décor. We are now more willing to invest in well-made pieces that more accurately tell our story than a production-line item ever could.

Q: In your residential and corporate design work, how do you see client expectations shifting in 2026 — what are they looking for that perhaps wasn’t as prominent in previous years?
A: Our positioning statement is “Authentic Spaces,” and this is becoming more true the longer we are in the industry. With all the points we have discussed today, it is clear that clients are wanting spaces that are more real to them—spaces that are a truer depiction of who they are and their story.

Q: Lastly, of all your current or upcoming projects, which one are you most excited about going into 2026 — and why do you feel it captures the spirit of the year ahead?
A: We are working on a very exciting project at the moment. The project is still in its infancy, and I can’t share too much about it, but I can say that it will be a first in South Africa. We will be using all the trends we discussed today in this project, which will launch in 2026—and we are very excited.