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These days, homeowners are drawn to modern spaces that still feel rooted in history.Designers Barry and Jordan of The Brownstone Boys coined this new style ‘Modern Heritage.’Read on for more about the latest interior design style, plus how to take part. Lately, designers and homeowners alike have been embracing pieces rooted in history—think antique mirrors, vintage glassware, and more. Retro design trends have taken over interiors, yet there isn’t just one specific style or decade that people keep coming back to. It’s a combination of different eras, all mixed within a home that somehow still feels modern. To learn more about what homeowners are truly craving in their spaces, we asked 15+ pro designers what interior design style or trend will be most popular in 2026, and the majority had a pretty similar answer. People want spaces that pay homage to the past yet still embrace a modern way of living.Designers Barry and Jordan of The Brownstone Boys even coined a name for the new style: Modern Heritage. “Think restored woodwork paired with a contemporary sofa, or antique lighting alongside playful wallpaper. People want spaces that feel rooted in history but lived for today—designs that feel both personal and enduring,” says Barry and Jordan. Ahead, we discuss what modern heritage really is, why it’s so popular, and tips for taking part, all according to interior designers who have seen this new style come to life. What Is Modern Heritage?As mentioned above, modern heritage pairs the old with the new for a more personal, collected space. “It’s all about honoring the past while designing for how people actually live today. It’s a balance of preservation and play, keeping the architectural soul of a space intact but layering it with contemporary comfort, expressive color, and personality,” says The Brownstone Boys. Frank Frances StudioAnd it’s not just Barry and Jordan who have noticed this style come to life recently. Other designers agree, too. Designer Betty Ann Gilrain of Betty Ann Gilrain Studio says this style has actually been alive for quite some time, but now, homeowners have easier access to the heritage pieces they need to pull it off. “It has always been in style going back decades! Partly because of the love of so many different design eras and not wanting to be siloed into just one, but also because there are more ways to source vintage and antique pieces than ever before online with retailers like 1st Dibs and Chairish,” says Gilrain. Heather Ison PhotographyGilrain paired these vintage Delft blue plates she found on Etsy with modern furniture for a space that reflects modern heritage. Photo by: Heather Ison PhotographyFor designer Maryline Damour of Damour Drake, modern heritage encourages homeowners to create a home that doesn’t look like anyone else’s—a highly personal space that tells their own story. “As an interior designer, it’s great to see more makers creating these unique pieces, whether it’s furniture, ceramics, or lighting. I think this is more than a trend; it’s a style of design that connects people to their surroundings and reflects who they are at home,” says Damour. How to Get Involved According to designers, modern heritage is a style with real staying power. “After years of minimalism and ‘one-look’ interiors, people want to celebrate imperfection, craftsmanship, and history again. Modern heritage isn’t about replicating the past, it’s about carrying it forward. Because of that flexibility and emotional connection, we believe it’s here to stay,” says The Brownstone Boys. Phil MansfieldLuckily, there are plenty of ways to get involved if you haven’t already began to embrace modern heritage. Whip out any heirlooms that have been passed down to you, go for a trip to the thrift store, or simply identify the areas of your home that tell a story. Here are a few tips from pro designers to get started. ✔️ Preserve original features: “Keep the trim, moldings, or tile that tell your home’s story and let them become the foundation for your design,” says Barry and Jordan.✔️ Lean into what you have: “I love that my grandmother’s brass base lamp was handed down to me, originally feeling out of place in a more modern space until I added a fun, block-print linen pleated shade,” says Gilrain.✔️ Layer thoughtfully: “Pair an antique mirror with a modern light fixture, or a streamlined sofa with vintage art. It’s about balance, not matching,” says Barry and Jordan.✔️ Add color and pattern with confidence: “Rich, unexpected hues (like moss green or oxblood) and statement wallpapers bring warmth and depth that make a space feel lived-in, not just decorated,” says Barry and Jordan.✔️ Search Facebook Marketplace and Etsy: Both are treasure troves of old and new. You must be willing to do some digging, though,” says Gilrain. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Benjamin Moore officially announced its 2026 Color of the Year. Silhouette (AF-655) is a mix of rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal.Ahead, the brand explains the color choice, diving deeper into the renewed appreciation for the brown color family. Benjamin Moore has announced its 2026 Color of the Year: Silhouette (AF-655). The popular paint brand describes the shade as “an alluring mix of rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal.”Courtesy of Benjamin MooreWhile the connection between fashion and interiors has always been quite strong when it comes to color trends, Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and design at Benjamin Moore, says this year’s color choice in particular was inspired by a “renewed interest in suiting and classic silhouettes” along with the resurgence of timeless pieces and rising popularity of the brown color family. The result? A sophisticated dark espresso with notes of charcoal that has real staying power beyond 2026. “Silhouette embodies these qualities with its depth and luxurious blend of burnt umber and delicate charcoal undertones. Like a perfectly tailored suit, this hue has the versatility and softness to bring a space from expected to exceptional,” says Magno.The shade is refined yet distinct, according to the brand, a bold take on a classic neutral—a step away from the brand’s 2025 Color of the Year, Cinnamon Slate, which was a bit more vibrant (and described by the brand as “quietly colorful”). In 2026, there’s a shift towards colors that are more versatile and sophisticated, specifically ones in the brown color family that can be paired with both pale shades and darker hues. Courtesy of Benjamin MooreWhile Silhouette on its own is a more elegant, neutral choice, Benjamin Moore has also released its 2026 Color Trends palette, and there are plenty of enchanting pastels—like Batik and First Crush—and moody midtones—like Narragansett Green—to pair with the dark espresso brown. According to the brand, these seven complementary hues were carefully chosen for their ability to easily layer on top of one another for a “graceful balance.” Courtesy of Benjamin MooreCourtesy of Benjamin MooreWhile homeowners have definitely been experimenting with bright, bold color and wallpaper choices recently, there’s no denying the staying power of a dark, classic neutral. Plus, when paired with a couple more lively tones from Benjamin Moore’s Color Trends palette, homeowners can still achieve that vibrance in a more approachable way. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Only a few years ago, it seemed like the formal dining room was a thing of the past. With life becoming less formal and on-the-go meals more common, the space suddenly felt obsolete. But just when it looked like the formal dining room was really over, the pandemic happened and shifted our view of gathering. “The pandemic reminded us how special it is to gather and share meals at home,” says Paulina Hospod, president of New York City-based Aha Interiors. Instead of having a quick bite at the kitchen island, dining felt intentional and social again—a designated dining space became more appealing. “A formal dining room brings back that sense of occasion and connection,” Hospod says. However, it’s not just the pandemic that brought on the comeback of the formal dining room. “After years of casual, open-concept living, there’s a renewed appreciation for spaces that feel special and set apart—places where families can gather, slow down, and celebrate everyday meals and holidays alike,” says Mimi Meacham, founder and principal designer of Houston’s Marian Louise Design. To get an industry insider perspective on the topic, we asked interior designers from across the country to weigh in. The consensus is that the formal dining room is officially back — and it’s a great place to add character and showcase your personal style.Rayon RichardsDesign by Aha Interiors“Designers like myself love the formal dining room for the chance to add drama, make a statement, and add personality through lighting, color, and texture,” Meacham says. She shares that the space allows for beautiful design moments that set it apart from the rest of the home, whether that’s achieved through a dramatic light fixture, elegant furnishings, or a bold wall treatment. Visually setting the room apart doesn’t just make for a fun design statement, it highlights the room’s function as a designated dining space. “In a world of casual living, these rooms offer a dedicated setting for special occasions, fostering connection and celebration,” says Brittany Farinas, creative director of the Miami-based House of One. This has a surprising impact on the way we dine. “To me, being in a dedicated formal dining room slows down the pace of a meal and invites you to stay and socialize for a while without distractions from all of the other spaces around you,” says Alex Thies, owner and creative director of Adelyn Charles Interiors in Bonita Springs, Florida. Instead of rushing through meals or being distracted by the sound of a running dishwasher, a defined dining space allows you to truly enjoy the moment with those around you. “It keeps everyday clutter and kitchen activity separate, creating a calm, polished atmosphere for hosting and family dinners,” Meacham says.ELLEN RENEEDesign by Marian Louise DesignIn addition to reminding us of the importance of gathering over a meal, the pandemic affected the way many of us live in our homes. “Just as the pandemic shifted people to working more from home, it also made people put more time and effort into their homes and therefore want to entertain in their homes again once they were able to,” Thies says. While the formal dining room serves as a space for entertaining, making memories, and enjoying everyday and holiday meals, Farinas points out another benefit—“It adds value to your home.” When considering your home’s resale value, a formal dining room can be a big draw for buyers and get you more for your home.So the question is, is a formal dining room worth it? For Hospod, it’s worth having as long as it’s actually used—and not just twice a year for holidays. “It should function as an extension of the kitchen, whether it’s open or closed off, and feel like a natural part of daily life,” she says.Blaine Jonathan PhotographyDesign by Adelyn Charles InteriorsA key reason why the formal dining room came close to being a thing of the past is that it often felt too stuffy and precious. Designers say striking the right balance between style and comfort is key for today’s formal dining rooms. “To make a formal dining room feel practical and inviting rather than precious, focus on comfort, versatility, and warmth,” Meacham says. Her advice is to choose upholstered or cushioned chairs that encourage lingering, layer soft lighting for an inviting ambience, and mix refined pieces with relaxed textures. Speaking of seating, take Thies’ advice and keep durability in mind. “Use performance fabrics that hold up to wear and tear so your guests don’t have to worry about spilling their wine,” the designer says. To complete the space, Meacham says, “A beautiful rug and a few personal touches help the room feel lived-in and loved, not reserved only for special occasions.” Maria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.  More

Want to keep tabs of the hottest decorating trends? That magic lies in a careful balance between embracing the latest and greatest fads—and also looking out for what’s to come. After all, trends come and go faster than you can say, “zellige tiles.” However, as we creep closer to 2026, we can’t help but wonder what’s next. Which design details are poised to be all the rage in the year to come? Fortunately, Zillow just released its 2026 Home Trends Report—and our personal spaces are about to become a lot more fun.Zillow might be a real-estate platform, but the company argues the listings you see online are a strong indicator of what buyers want. “Listing descriptions are short, so every word counts,” Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, said in a press statement. “When we see a sharp increase in certain features being mentioned in listings on Zillow, whether it’s spa-inspired bathrooms, or bespoke artisan craftsmanship, it’s a clear signal that these details are capturing buyers’ attention right now and hint at what’s next in home design.”AsiaVision//Getty ImagesSo what do buyers want in their comes? Color—and lots of it. The report found mentions of color-drenching are up 149 percent in Zillow listings. While the designers have long loved covering an entire room in a single hue, Pendleton say this trend is a welcomed break from “minimalist, all-neutral interiors.” “It’s a way for people to tell a story with their spaces and infuse personality back into the home,” she tells Good Housekeeping. “We’ve also seen this rise alongside social media inspiration; bold, cohesive rooms photograph beautifully and feel elevated yet approachable.” Zillow also found more mentions of artisan craftsmanship (21 percent), vintage accents (17 percent), and touches of whimsy (15 percent)—showing a seismic shift toward maximalist territory. In fact, the report shows that more affluent features like juice stations and marble sinks are being traded in for cozier, more personable features like reading nooks. “The rise in reading nooks reflects a broader desire for slower moments and mindful design that supports rest, hobbies, or analog activities,” says Pendleton, who notes an interest in reading nooks has increased by 48 percent. Liudmila Chernetska//Getty ImagesIn addition to the rise of reading nooks—which Pendleton says is possible to incorporate in a smaller space—Zillow is noticing an increase of golf simulators and pickleball courts. “Homes are evolving into multi-dimensional spaces that blend work, wellness, play, and self-expression,” Pendleton tells Good Housekeeping. “Buyers want these features too, and even in today’s affordability-stretched market, they’re willing to pay more to have them.” Zillow research finds homes with a golf simulator can sell for 1.4 percent more, while homes with a batting cage go for 1.7 percent more. Whether you opt for color or cozy up with a good book, one thing’s for sure: Come 2026, things are going to get personal in your pad. “Homeowners are embracing personalized spaces and treating their homes as creative canvases,” Pendleton says. “The result is a deeper emotional connection to home as a sanctuary, a social hub, and a reflection of personal identity.”Related StoriesKelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos. More

I remember the first time I saw the Father of the Bride movies. A friend’s mom rented these ‘90s classics for us while we were still in that decade, either enjoying a weekend or a day off from elementary school, and plopped us in front of the TV while she worked. In the intervening years, I always felt comforted by re-runs. The storylines still charm, the jokes perpetually land, and the sets remain beautiful. And in the midst of the nervous hijinks supplied by Steve Martin and Martin Short, Diane Keaton always embodies a warm calm. Keaton, who passed away on October 11 at the age of 79, had the type of storied career that becomes intertwined with personal memories and cultural touchstones. For Nancy Meyers aficionados like me, who can quote from the Father of the Bride movies and Something’s Gotta Give with ease, Keaton exemplified the daydream of living and dressing stylishly—as if both could be timeless and effortless at once. Because she made it all look so good, these films became synonymous with an enduring style trend I reference regularly (while wearing a turtleneck, of course). Silver Screen Collection//Getty ImagesDiane Keaton starring alongside Woody Allen in the 1975 comedy, Love and Death. I’ve also admired Keaton for the work she pursued in her private life. She spent many years preserving historic Los Angeles architecture, a challenge in a city that prioritizes new everything, and became an interior designer in her own right through this process. Her sensibilities don’t line up perfectly to the big-screen settings she was most associated with, but nevertheless, they have staying power. Here are four design lessons that I’ll continue to remember. Rely on a Black-and-White Palette Much of Keaton’s interiors make the most of a classic pairing: black and white. She used this duo to highlight architectural features, like a wall of windows in a midcentury modern home built by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son, but she also picked it for smaller counterparts like dinnerware in her collaboration with Hudson Grace. The takeaway? A black-and-white color scheme can be trusted no matter the backdrop, and has a way of feeling familiar yet sophisticated (not unlike Keaton herself). And if you need one more shade in the mix, Keaton would’ve likely recommended red. Dave Benett//Getty ImagesThe Academy Award-winning actress at the 2023 Ralph Lauren New York Fashion Week show. Incorporate Texture With Exposed BrickPerhaps the most striking detail of the industrial farmhouse she featured in The House That Pinterest Built, the 2017 book about the home she constructed from the ground up, is its exposed brick facade. Sure, there’s white-painted brick on the inside—which follows Nancy Meyers’s style more closely—but Keaton preferred to leave the exterior brick as is. Follow her lead and lean into this material’s cozy texture. The same thing goes for wood beams, particularly in her preferred Spanish colonial builds: the more rustic and moody, the better.The House That Pinterest BuiltUse Scale to Add PlayfulnessKeaton’s designs often feel as symmetrical as a pair of suspenders. But she tended to have one recurring accessory that could be viewed as a surprising smirk: oversized lighting. The address in The House That Pinterest Built is filled with rows of large pendants, as is the historic Tucson home she bought in 2018, among others. Keaton could have put it like this: If the rest of a room’s design is minimal, then large pendants can be the star. Spell It Out in Words Keaton loved using lettering, either to spell out exacting words like “California,” which she did in her industrial farmhouse, or to add wit to a set of cocktail napkins. It’s a confident foil to more traditional artwork, and one that’s as versatile as the rest of the choices on this list. And when it comes to Keaton as a creative force, using letters also makes sense. She did have a way with words, after all. Related StoriesKelly Dawson is a writer, editor and marketing consultant. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Architectural Digest, Travel + Leisure and other publications.  More

1Hardwood floorsAnastassiya Bezhekeneva//Getty ImagesNever use a soaking wet mop to clean hardwood floors, or allow any liquid to sit on hardwood floors. “The worst thing you can do is let water puddle on the floor,” says Forté. Too much water can cause wood to swell, warp, or discolor—it can even cause mold growth. THE RIGHT WAY: Use a spray or damp microfiber mop to clean dirt, grime, and food spills on hardwood floors. Dry any remaining liquid with a dry mop or absorbent cloth. RELATED: The Best Way to Clean Hardwood Floors2ClothesPhoto by Rafa Elias//Getty ImagesLaundry mistakes—like overloading the machine and using too much detergent—mean your clothes aren’t getting clean. Cramming too many clothes into the washing machine will prevent your clothes from a through wash, plus it can strain the motor. Meanwhile, too much detergent can leave a residue on clothes.THE RIGHT WAY: Don’t overload the washing machine and always measure your detergent. You should be able to fit one hand in the drum and still have a little room to move it around. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3MirrorsPlan A Office//Getty ImagesDon’t spray glass cleaner directly onto the mirror—it’ll likely drip before you have the chance to wipe. Forté says to ditch the circular motion, because it generates static that attract dust. THE RIGHT WAY: To clean a mirror without leaving streaks, spray cleaner onto a cloth or towel. Then, wipe your mirror using an S-shape motion, starting from the top and working your way down. 4Your water bottleRobin Gentry//Getty ImagesMost of us aren’t cleaning our water bottles enough (every day is recommended), and you might be failing to target all of its crevices. “Mold can grow under silicone pieces if they’re not removed and allowed to dry completely,” says GHI Kitchen Lab Director Nicole Papantoniou.THE RIGHT WAY: Dissemble all pieces of the water bottle before cleaning. Pay special attention to the mouthpiece. “I always give my straws a good once-over with a straw brush to remove any buildup,” says Papantoniou. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Stainless steel appliancessergey02//Getty ImagesIf your stainless-steel appliances look streaky or scratched, you might be cleaning them wrong. All-purpose cleaners are likely to leave behind streaks, while an abrasive scrubber can damage the finish.THE RIGHT WAY: “To avoid scratches and streaks, always use a cleaner specifically made for cleaning stainless steel,” says Forté. Use a microfiber cloth and wipe with the grain.RELATED: 9 Best Stainless Steel Cleaners, Tested by Cleaning Experts6Shower curtain linerJena Ardell//Getty ImagesDon’t waste time scrubbing soap scum, hard water mineral deposits, or mold and mildew on your plastic shower curtain. There’s an easier way: toss it in the washing machine.THE RIGHT WAY: Wash plastic shower curtains on a warm, delicate cycle, or for very dirty liners a hot, short cycle adding in some bleach (for clear or white liners) and some old towels for scrubbing action. “At the end of the cycle, place the liner in the dryer on low heat for only a few minutes to remove excess moisture,” says Forté. Never leave it unattended while it’s in the dryer. Hang it up to finish drying. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Phone, computer, and TV screensd3sign//Getty ImagesIt’s important to keep screens clean, but certain techniques—like cleaners with harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges—can cause damage. And, you should never spray a cleaner directly onto a screen. THE RIGHT WAY: Use a cleaner specifically made for electronics, whether it’s a pre-moistened wipe or dry cleaning cloth. RELATED: 8 Best Screen Cleaners for Every Device, Tested by Cleaning Experts8Cast iron pansIlia Nesolenyi//Getty ImagesCast iron pans don’t require a lot of maintenance, but they require specific maintenance. Never ever soak your cast iron pan, or put it in the dishwasher. THE RIGHT WAY: Wash cast iron with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Scrub gently with a stiff-bristle dish brush, and rinse. Heat it over the stove until dry, then rub a small amount of oil on the pan using a paper towel. Instead of washing with water, you can also use kosher salt and a wooden spatula to scrape away stuck-on bits.RELATED: How to Clean and Reseason a Cast Iron SkilletAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Windows and glass doorshrabar//Getty ImagesThe most common mistakes when cleaning windows: doing it on a sunny day. “Do this job in the blazing sun and the cleaner will dry onto the hot windows before you get to wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks,” Forté says.THE RIGHT WAY: Wash your windows on an overcast day when windows are cool to avoid streaks. RELATED: How to Clean Windows and Prevent Streaks, According to Cleaning Experts10Natural stone countertopsDavid Papazian//Getty ImagesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowReaders Also ReadAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More