Refresh, Restyle - Jun/Jul 2026
One room, two looks
One room, two looks
THE PROJECT
For our 20-year issue I decided to embark on an interesting comparison between the interior styles of 2006 & 2026. What I loved about the project is to see how much we changed in style, but to also see what we kept in mind in both years.
Some similarities noticed in the design style of 2006 & 2026 is that during both periods homeowners want to create a space that feels like theirs, a place of comfort and a place that portrays their sense of style. Spatial planning was essential in both years with seating around coffee tables being defined areas. Both used more than one lighting option and after 20 years, texture and rich fabrics still play a big role in 2026.
Furniture designs may have changed, but the core vision we had in 2006 is also what we want in 2026 – and that is comfort.
Before
THE 2006 STYLE
Transitional traditional, Tuscan-inspired. This style was very popular in the early 2000’s and the start of moving to softer neutrals. Transitional traditional is a blend of classic elegance and modern simplicity, the use of rich materials, clean lines with a more relaxed and contemporary feel. The influence of Tuscan-inspired design was prominent in the mid 2000’s, with the use of creams, beige, terracotta, olive green and deep brown colour palettes. The interiors are typically grounded by furniture with rich wood finishes, classic chandeliers, heavy drapery with patterns and decorative accents like mirrors & traditional rugs.
Paint colours: One notices that there is no accent wall in this design, which was VERY 2006. I used a warm beige colour for all the walls with a warm undertone. The paint complements the dark wood furniture.
Furniture: This period screamed “matchy, matchy, matchy”. The dining table and chairs, lounge suite, coffee tables and cabinets all match in wood tone & style – a true 2006 depiction. I made use of big, bulky couches with seams at the bottom. The dining chairs have cabriole-style legs. The seating arrangement around the TV is clearly defined and symmetrical.
Décor items: I used many family pictures on the walls, almost making the space feel too full. The gold-framed mirror was very popular in the 2000’s. Large candles on the dining table and a classic traditional table lamp. The floor lamp complements the olive-green interior and a rug with very traditional motifs. Matching floral cushions and almost too many cushions were just the thing.
After - 2006 Style
2026 STYLE
Organic Modern with Japandi influence. A contemporary interior style that blends the warmth and natural textures of organic modern design with the calm minimalism and the functionality of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. The style includes the use of stone, wood and ceramics. Furniture pieces are soft and curvy. Colour palettes remain neutral and warm, consisting of creams, beiges, soft browns and muted earth tones which can be accented by a single bold colour.
Paint colours: In 2015 we used to lean more towards grey, but lately we lean more to warmer colours. The wall colour does not compete with the furniture but rather blends in.
Furniture: I used curvy chairs, an organic-shaped coffee table and occasional chairs that have legs shaped like tree branches, which is highly fashionable today. In 2026 it is all about comfort, thus the big couch. A high-end contemporary dining table with a marble top & rounded edges complete the look. All the furniture flows together with rounded edges and a natural aesthetic.
Décor items: Nothing is cluttered! I chose one bold colour to use alongside the natural interior: the bold red, like some ceramic vases with beautiful, subtle flowers. Furthermore: books on the coffee table and on the media unit below the TV, a big statement artwork on the wall and a large rug below the lounge area. Ceiling-mounted, full-height curtains create a seamless, elongated look, while a dropped ceiling with integrated downlights provides soft ambient illumination. A person could use AI-powered smart pots for the indoor plants behind the wood panels – to control watering & lighting with sensors.
After - 2026 Style
Aleza Mays
Interior Decorator
Seeking expert interior design advice or consultation? From colour consulting to project renderings, we’ve got you covered.
Contact aleza@housefindernam.com
