The 'Less Is More' Living Room Style That's Being Replaced In 2026

Decorating your living room can get tricky. Even the best, most inspiring living room decor ideas need to balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. Though the ultra-minimalist aesthetic has been trendy for a while, ostensibly as a way to minimize clutter and streamline interior design, some experts say this "less is more" style is on its way out and will feel outdated in 2026. In short: It's a little bland, and decorating in this style exclusively can make your living room feel stiff or devoid of personality. 

"While I love modern, streamlined [ultra-minimalist] furnishings, I like them best as one part of a whole design, paired with curved silhouettes and traditional details," interior designer Kathy Kuo said in an interview with The Spruce. "It's the mix of both that really takes the design of a room to the next level." Other pros say maximalist home design — the polar opposite of ultra-minimalism — is having a moment, generating renewed interest in color-drenched walls, bold furniture items, and a variety of different shapes, patterns, or textures in the same room. Are you planning on redecorating your living room in the new year? Here's everything you need to know to do so stylishly.

With ultra-minimalist interiors tanking in popularity, it's no wonder maximalist home decor has popped up in its place. As interior designer Eleanor Tate Trepte told Good Housekeeping, "[Clients] want their homes to feel calm and livable, but they're also not willing to sacrifice the 'wow' factor." Unlike ultra-minimalism, maximalism "gives people permission to be expressive and personal" when choosing pieces for their homes. This bold design style would make any living room feel more fun and full of character.

To implement this trend, start by swapping out neutral furnishings for colored or patterned ones. You might experiment with a punchy backdrop like floral-patterned wallpaper, which is also trending, or by pairing vintage pieces with contemporary ones for an eclectic mix of styles. You could even invest in a statement couch. Since it's typically the centerpiece of a living room, choosing one in a splashy hue will set the tone for the entire room.

If maximalist or eclectic interiors aren't your speed, or you're not in the place financially to overhaul your ultra-minimalist living room, that's okay. One recent home trends survey from Zillow found that reading nooks are on the rise for 2026. Create a cozy reading nook in your home by sourcing an armchair that fits your living room's current aesthetic, or by sprucing up one you already own with a colorful throw pillow or new floor lamp. It's an easy and on-trend way to make your living room feel more inviting and thoughtfully curated.