The Cozy Wall Treatment That's Taking Over Big Time In 2026

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From fine art to shiplap, there are countless ways to cover your walls. If you're bored with paneling and prints, there is one rising trend you'll want to get your hands on. The 2026 trend to keep an eye on is using draped fabric to add texture and visual interest to a space — and you don't even need windows to take advantage of the trend. Hannah Griffiths, founder of Studio Palindrome, told Real Simple: "I think we'll start seeing fabric used as accent walls behind beds, as partitions between spaces, or even draped across openings in lieu of actual doors."

Upholstery walls are making a comeback, and you can modernize the look to suit 2026 design trends. This is because curtain-covered walls with dramatic drapery have become ultra-popular in luxury hospitality spaces, and hotel-inspired homes have been trending over the past couple of years. This trend makes the high-end aesthetic attainable, and draped fabric strikes the perfect balance between lavish and relaxed, making it an ideal treatment for both classic and contemporary interior walls. Mona Hajj, owner of Mona Hajj Interiors, confirms this in an interview with Architectural Digest: "Old, intricate textiles that were used as curtains are still beautiful and can be framed or hung directly on the wall." This unusual way to decorate with curtains is proof that drapes can be repurposed as wall art and architectural accessories.

There are several compelling reasons you should consider adding a curtain wall to your home. According to next year's designer trends, drapes are one of the easiest ways to add color to your space. Plus, you don't need to own an opulent mansion to cover your walls with dramatic drapes. In fact, fabric is a great alternative for upgrading a rental without painting or altering the walls whatsoever. Top-trending tones include rich, earthy hues like eucalyptus, mahogany, and eggplant. For example, these Pony Dance Celadon Velvet Curtains are a thick, textured option that suits current color trends. You can also create your wall drapes with fabric by the foot from scraps or your local fabric store. 

When it comes to installation, opt for tension rods that can run the length of your wall, kept in place by the two walls on either side. If your space isn't suitable for a tension rod, you can use a rod set with a vertical frame, like this Yasrkml Room Divider Curtain Rod Set. Make sure to cover the vertical support rods themselves with drapery for a seamless look. To get an ultra-luxurious draping effect, you may prefer two to three rows of rods. This will allow you to drape different colors and textures of fabric in several dramatic layers.