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By Kelsey Korolchuk, CID, Genevieve Richard, NCIDQ, Andrea Okeson, Krista Burton
Design and procurement teams are tracking these changes closely, helping hospitality partners translate emerging trends into spaces that perform operationally while elevating the guest experience. From guestrooms to public areas, the focus is clear: creating layered, memorable environments that feel both elevated and deeply personal. One of the most notable shifts is the move toward nature-inspired color palettes. Across the industry, designers are seeing a strong presence of layered greens, warm earth tones, and organic hues that bring a sense of calm and restoration to interior spaces. These palettes offer a departure from the cooler, more minimal looks of recent years and instead create environments that feel grounded and inviting. In hospitality settings, these tones are being used strategically to enhance guestrooms, create relaxed and welcoming lounge environments, and reinforce a connection to the surrounding landscape and local context. Alongside this evolution in color, tactile design is taking center stage. Layered textures are becoming essential, with fluted wood, tambour detailing, boucle upholstery, woven materials, and expressive stone all contributing to a more dynamic visual experience. Rather than relying on a single statement element, designers are building depth through contrast and combination. This translates into sourcing and specifying materials that not only achieve the desired aesthetic but also meet the durability demands of high-traffic environments.  This emphasis on texture also ties into a broader shift toward residential-inspired comfort. Hospitality environments are increasingly designed to feel lived-in rather than overly polished. Our teams are seeing a strong move toward curated, collected interiors, incorporating thrifted or found objects, locally inspired artwork, and one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story. For hotel owners and operators, this approach creates opportunities to differentiate properties and connect more authentically with guests. Furniture design is evolving in tandem with these trends. Soft, sculptural forms continue to dominate, with rounded silhouettes appearing across seating, millwork, and architectural details. Fluted and reeded elements are especially prominent, adding rhythm and texture to casegoods, bar fronts, and feature walls. These details strike a balance between modern and timeless, and they require careful coordination between design intent and fabrication. Having experience in both custom and prototypical environments allows these elements to be executed efficiently and consistently across projects. At the same time, there is a renewed appreciation for retro influences, particularly from the 1970s. Jewel tones, plush upholstery, and subtly nostalgic forms are being reinterpreted in a way that feels fresh and relevant. In hospitality settings, these elements bring a sense of warmth and familiarity while still maintaining a distinct point of view that aligns with brand standards. Lighting is also playing a more intentional role in shaping the guest experience. Multi-pendant installations and statement fixtures are being used to define zones within open-concept spaces, particularly in lobbies and lounges that serve multiple functions throughout the day. Portable, rechargeable LED lamps are another detail gaining traction and offer flexibility while enhancing ambiance in both public areas and guestrooms. Coordinating these elements alongside procurement and installation timelines is a key part of delivering a cohesive final result. Functionality remains a driving force behind many of these design decisions. As guest expectations continue to evolve, spaces are being designed to support a range of activities, from co-working and socializing to relaxation and retreat. Flexible seating arrangements, layered lighting, and durable performance materials are all essential components. There is also an increased use of high-performance finishes that replicate the look and feel of natural materials, allowing for a refined aesthetic without compromising longevity. Underlying all of these trends is a shift toward warmth. Neutrals are moving away from stark whites and cool grays and leaning instead into warm whites, soft browns, and cognac tones. These palettes create a more inviting atmosphere and reinforce the idea that hospitality spaces should feel comfortable, approachable, and human-centered.  What brings these trends together is a shared emphasis on experience. Today’s guests are looking for more than just a place to stay. They want spaces that feel thoughtful, distinctive, and connected to their surroundings. By layering texture, embracing color, incorporating curated elements, and prioritizing comfort, hospitality design in 2026 is delivering environments that resonate on a deeper level. For hotel owners and operators, the opportunity is not just to follow trends, but to implement them in ways that are efficient, brand-aligned, and built to last. About the Author
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