The Trends Kelly Wearstler Has Her Eye on in 2026

We hadn't heard this prediction yet.
woman with wavy hair
Photography by Magdalena Wosinska

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Kelly Wearstler recently hopped on her Substack, Wearsterworld, to share her design predictions for 2026…and we can’t stop thinking about her spot-on takes. One important detail she’s keeping her eyes on this year? Things that are a little bit awkward. Or, as she puts it: “Off proportions. Too-low seating. Over-thick edges. Big lamps.” To offer a clearer look inside her crystal ball, we pulled some examples of spaces we think check Wearstler’s boxes.

Off Proportions

large powder room mirror
Photography by Brian Wetzel

You almost forget how tiny this Philly home‘s powder room is because of the oversized mirror designer Nicole Cole hung over the wall-mounted sink. To add to the illusion, she painted the ceiling a dark aubergine color.

Too-low Seating

low tie-dye sofa
Photography by Nina Choi; Styling by Benjamin Reynaert

Whether you’re working with low ceilings or not, a seating area that’s situated closer to the floor than expected can give off a lovely conversation pit vibe. The living room in this Hamptons beach house is instantly welcoming, thanks to its pillow-like construction.  

Over-thick Edges

wood bathroom vanity
Photography by Ori Harpaz

We’re taking this one as a cue to pay more attention to corners and moldings. While a simple thing, the thick edges that divide this Los Angeles bathroom’s vanity, closet, and toilet give the room some character and allow each zone to feel separate from the other, even though they’re situated along one wall.

Big Lamps

large lamp over outdoor table
Photography by Sergey Krasyuk, Styling by Elina Mussakulova

An oversized lamp is expected in a reading nook, which is why we love the idea of dropping one over the patio, too. Take the lead from this apartment in Kazakhstan, which brings a candy-apple-red gooseneck lamp into the conversation.