By Jordana Ashkenazi – one of the UK’s leading luxury interior designers and Founder & Design Director at Element One House.
As we step into 2026, the definition of luxury living is evolving. It is no longer about grandeur for its own sake, but about creating spaces that feel timeless, personal and deeply connected to lifestyle. Interiors are now designed to nurture well-being, celebrate craftsmanship and reflect a sense of calm sophistication.
1. Natural Materials Take Centre Stage
One of the strongest design movements is the shift towards natural materials. Marble, limestone and quartzite are being celebrated in softer, lighter tones, bringing a refined calm to interiors. At the same time, there is a bold comeback of richly coloured marbles with dramatic veining – think deep ambers, maroons and other striking hues. Used for worktops, bathroom tiles or feature panels, these chunky-veined stones create contrast and visual drama, making a powerful statement alongside more tonal schemes.
Top Tip: Choose one hero material -such as a statement marble countertop or a hand-finished timber floor – and allow it to guide the rest of your scheme.
2. Light, Tonal Palettes
The dominance of grey has given way to softer, lighter palettes. Creams, warm neutrals, chalky whites and pale stone hues create serene, expansive interiors. These tones form the perfect backdrop for layering textures and introducing subtle accents of colour, such as muted blues or greens, that add individuality without overpowering the space.
Top Tip: Layer fabrics in tonal shades – linen, boucle and wool – to create warmth and dimension without relying on bold colour.
3. Bespoke Craftsmanship and Personalisation
Luxury clients are increasingly seeking individuality. Bespoke joinery, custom furniture and hand-made detailing reflect a return to craft and permanence. A tailored approach not only maximises space but also ensures that every design element reflects the client’s personality and lifestyle.
Top Tip: Invest in one or two bespoke pieces that bring individuality to your home, such as a custom dining table, fitted wardrobes or a handmade rug.
4. Wellness at Home
Wellness continues to drive design choices in 2026. From spa-like bathrooms with natural stone and mood lighting, to home gyms and meditation spaces, interiors are being designed as sanctuaries. Biophilic design (bringing greenery, natural light and organic forms indoors) remains central to creating calm, restorative environments.
Top Tip: Incorporate layers of lighting. Combine natural light, soft concealed lighting and statement pendants to create balance and atmosphere.
5. Flexible Living Spaces
With hybrid lifestyles firmly established, homes now need to adapt to multiple functions. Luxury living means having spaces that flow seamlessly: cinema rooms that double as family hubs, studies that convert into guest rooms or kitchens designed equally for entertaining and everyday family life.
Top Tip: Consider multi-purpose furniture, such as modular seating or concealed storage, to maintain flexibility without compromising on style.
Looking Ahead
The future of luxury interiors lies in balance: pairing timeless design with innovation, craftsmanship with comfort and beauty with functionality. In 2026, luxury living is about more than aesthetics. It is about creating homes that feel meaningful, restorative and enduring.
About the expert
Jordana Ashkenazi is the Founder and Design Director of Element One House. She is one of the UK’s leading luxury interior designers. Jordana has over a decade of experience working in interior design, buying, and homeware development having established Element One House back in 2013. It was launched as a dynamic and fresh design studio specialising in all aspects of design across luxury residential, commercial and short-to-mid-term rental markets.
Element One House, is a dynamic and innovative design studio which specialises in both commercial and residential properties, embracing a holistic approach to the design and development process. All designs reflect the individuality of clients and bring their visions to life. Find out more at elementonehouse.com
