Emilia’s Autumn Trends Review

September 28, 2026

Seasons change and so do our priorities when it comes to interiors schemes. We’ve been soaking up new collections and inspiration from design shows and there are a few new trends that stand out.

Substance is key. Of course, design aesthetic remains central, but we’re seeing a strong emphasis on materiality, craftsmanship, comfort and a more considered approach to sustainability.

Comfort as a design priority

Perhaps it’s linked to a drop in temperature but there is a clear move towards interiors that feel softer, warmer and more inviting. Hugely comfortable sofas and armchairs are a must and many of our trusted suppliers have been working hard to perfect the right ratio of fluff and plush while avoiding any sag – our sofa pet peeve! It feels like rather than simply designing for visual impact, designers are putting a greater emphasis on how the pieces really feel to use, to live with, to sink into. We’ll be looking to William Yeoward & Charlotte James for our comfort inspiration.

Materiality doing the talking

Almost every furniture piece that stood out to us this season was designed with consideration for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

Loom Furniture and their Fawn console table really caught our eye – so much so we are putting it into a project already! At first glance it may appear simple but on closer inspection it’s constructed using soft organic stone, complimented by hand-sculpted metal feet.

Vaughan Lighting have a lovely new collection of lights – inspired by centuries of design history. Precise glasswork and handcrafted metal. The Alresford Lantern is our top pick from the collection.

Silky Sustainability

Combining enviable design with sustainability, Jennifer Manners has developed a new silk-performance fibre. It’s genius! Made from recycled fish nets, the yarns undergo a process to make them soft and silky. The finished rug is exceptional, its soft, fluid handle and amazing colour depth give the fibre a distinctive visual richness while its inherent durability makes it well suited to high-use spaces.

Saturated Colour Schemes

With an appetite for more soul and more personality, we plan to move away from all cream/grey interiors. Colefax & Fowler’s new Pendine collection rooted in the language of English decoration and centuries of collected interiors is made to be layered. Richly patterned weaves and embroidered linens designed to build an interior scheme gradually. The collection is layered with texture and print presenting a warm and rich colour palette which we’re attracted to. I see this being paired with rich woods and soft ochre, caramel colours which are rising in popularity and something we have been drawn to in our designs. A particular favourite of mine is Little Greene’s new 26 colour shades which include gentle and balanced warm hues such as Marle and Elysian Yellow.