Roche Bobois Reveals the Defining Interior Design & Furniture Trends for 2026

In this exclusive interview, Sandrine Fanchette of Roche Bobois unpacks the defining interior-design and furniture trends set to shape 2026. From innovative materials and expressive colour palettes to sustainability-driven craftsmanship, she reveals how the brand is reimagining the future of luxury living for a global — and distinctly South African — audience.

How would you summarise the key furniture/interior-design trends you expect to dominate in 2026?
2026 will be a year defined by quiet sophistication — interiors that feel both refined and deeply personal. We see a continued movement toward organic shapes, tactile comfort, and a harmonious balance between innovation and craftsmanship. People are seeking spaces that restore calm and authenticity; interiors that reflect their story, not just their style. Colour palettes move toward earthy serenity: think terracotta, olive, ochre, mineral white, and deep ocean blue — hues championed by trend leaders such as Pantone, WGSN, and Dulux Colour Futures. Accents of brushed bronze and soft metallics add understated glamour.

Sustainability is increasingly central in luxury design – how is Roche Bobois evolving its collections or processes to align with this in 2026?
For Roche Bobois, sustainability is not simply an industry requirement — it’s a mindset that has guided every stage of creation for decades. We are continually refining our collections to use certified woods, natural leathers, water-based finishes, and recyclable materials. Our Eco8 programme, for instance, ensures that every new sofa meets stringent eco-design standards. By 2026, we aim to deepen this approach with greater transparency and traceability — because true luxury must respect both people and planet. Do not hesitate to question us about any product.

As the African market continues to grow, how are you adapting your design-offerings or showroom experience to reflect cultural context and consumer preferences here?
The African market is incredibly inspiring — rich in textures, rhythm, and warmth. In South Africa, there’s a strong appreciation for authenticity and craft, values that resonate perfectly with Roche Bobois’ philosophy. With over 2,000 references in our collections, we can easily adapt style, materials, and colours. Our showrooms reflect this by curating collections that blend French savoir-faire with the ease of African living — open spaces, natural light, and bold, joyful palettes. It’s about creating interiors that feel both international in luxury and deeply rooted in place.

Altea Sofa

Materiality is a big part of luxury furniture. What new materials, finishes, or techniques should we expect to see in 2026 designs?
Materiality continues to define luxury. Roche Bobois is exploring new ways to combine the raw and the refined: solid woods and stylish ceramic tables, for example; recyclable tactile fabrics made from recycled fibres; and matte metallic legs for chairs. Technology now enhances craftsmanship rather than replaces it — enabling seamless joints, soft-touch finishes, and 3D forms that bring contemporary comfort to artisanal tradition.

Could you speak about colour trends for 2026: which hues or colour combinations do you feel will become especially important?
Colour is returning as a statement of emotion and balance. We expect to see warm, nature-inspired tones — terracotta, deep olive, golden sand, and ocean blue — contrasted with mineral whites and muted neutrals. These colours connect beautifully to the South African landscape, from the Cape’s earth tones to the ocean’s shifting blues. The palette feels calm yet alive — a perfect backdrop for timeless interiors. Earthy greens and muted plums will be a must: Roche Bobois will launch early 2026 a full outdoor collection with tables and chairs around these colours.

Modular and multifunctional furniture have been rising in importance – how is Roche Bobois addressing changing lifestyle needs in its upcoming collections?
Our lives are increasingly fluid — homes are places to work, rest, and reconnect. At Roche Bobois, we design with that rhythm in mind. Iconic pieces like Mah Jong remain at the forefront of modular living, allowing infinite configurations that evolve with lifestyle and space. This model was created by Roche Bobois 55 years ago! The idea is to offer versatility without losing the poetry of design — furniture that adapts gracefully and endures beautifully. Today our bestselling multifunctional sofa is Conversation, the most comfortable on the market!

How is technology influencing furniture design, either in form or function, at Roche Bobois for 2026?
Technology is quietly reshaping comfort. At Roche Bobois, we integrate it where it truly enhances the experience: from invisible mechanisms that optimise seating comfort to amazing recycled materials, to ambient lighting or acoustics that create serenity. On the creative side, advanced digital tools allow our designers to prototype more sustainably, reducing waste while expanding what is possible in form and structure — and soon, new IA tools.

Collaboration with designers is a hallmark of Roche Bobois. Are there any upcoming designer partnerships or collections for 2026 that you can preview?
Collaborations are part of Roche Bobois’ DNA. We work with some of the world’s most visionary talents — from Marcel Wanders Studio to Sacha Lakic — and continuously invite new creative voices to join us. For 2026, expect exciting partnerships that merge design with art and fashion — where a sofa can become a sculptural expression, and a dining table a true conversation piece.

What role does craftsmanship and “made in France” play in your brand positioning, and how will that be communicated or updated in 2026?
“Made in France,” and in our case “Made in Italy” and “Made in Europe,” remains at the heart of our identity. It speaks to precision, tradition, and pride in making something exceptional by hand with quality materials. Our artisans collaborate closely with designers to translate creative vision into perfectly executed pieces. In 2026, we would like to highlight these human stories more than ever — through dedicated digital content that celebrates the mastery behind every creation. A customer needs to understand the difference between a high-end designer product made in limited edition and a mere copy made from materials with no control, which can harm their health.

Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to a luxury homeowner in South Africa looking to update their interior in 2026, what would it be?
Design your home with intention. Choose fewer pieces, but let each one carry meaning, have a story, a designer — make it unique, whether it’s crafted by an artisan or chosen for the memories it will hold. Blend textures and cultures, and don’t be afraid of contrast: French elegance can live beautifully alongside African warmth. Comfort and ease of use, even in high-end settings, should always be kept in consideration. Do not compromise — visit us for a complimentary coaching at your place to understand what you really need.

Contact me personally if needed: s.fanchette@roche-bobois.com
Above all, let your home tell your story — that is the truest expression of luxury.