Every winter brings its share of ‘new year, new interior’ predictions - which are, by definition, no exact science. Some trends are fleeting, others are destined to become the next great design classics.
As 2026 approaches, people are craving authenticity. We’re stepping away from plastic perfection and returning to materials that feel honest, tactile and alive. Here’s a look at the trends worth watching...
Sustainability Becomes Style
Gone are the times when sustainability was a simple footnote. Interiors are becoming more eco-driven, with a growing preference for items that last. Natural hides already embody this ethos: each one is a by-product of the food industry and crafted to endure decades rather than seasons. A well-cared-for cowhide rug doesn’t wear out; it develops character!
Tactile is the New Minimal
After years of smooth, glossy surfaces, designers are celebrating texture. From hand-trowelled plaster to boucle upholstery, homes are craving sensory depth. This is where sheepskin and cowhide come into their own: a soft sheepskin rug casually draped over a bench, or a cowhide rug layered on polished concrete, introduces touchable warmth that modern minimalism has often lacked.
Natural, Earthy Tones Dominate
Neutrals remain timeless, but 2026 will see them evolve towards richer, more grounded shades. Expect tones of sand, taupe, mushroom and bark - all colours that echo the outdoors. Natural hides fit seamlessly within this palette, acting as the link between raw materials and refined spaces. Paired with terracotta ceramics, warm lighting and green foliage, a hide rug feels both contemporary and comforting.
The Return of Artisan Detail
Mass production is losing its appeal. Instead, craftsmanship and provenance are back in the spotlight. Homeowners want to know who made their pieces and how. Hide Rugs’ collection of responsibly sourced hides and bespoke dye options aligns with this new appreciation for individuality. No two hides are alike, meaning every rug tells its own story - and that uniqueness is fast becoming the ultimate luxury.
Spaces Made to Cocoon, Not Impress
Forget stark show homes: 2026 interiors will favour warmth, softness and sanctuary. Textured throws, curved furniture and layered rugs are all part of this change. Cowhides and sheepskins are ideal for this cocooning feel: they’re natural insulators, soft underfoot, and quietly luxurious without trying too hard.
If 2025 was about earthy sophistication, 2026 looks set to amplify it. Design is turning inward, more grounded yet still aspirational. Natural, tactile and enduring, its hides are perfectly attuned to what’s next in interiors: a return to comfort with soul.