As we move further into 2026, the interior design landscape is evolving in a way that feels more considered, tactile, and human‑centred than ever before. Homeowners, designers, and architects are increasingly rejecting the “white box” aesthetic of the recent past in favour of spaces that feel grounded, warm, and unmistakably bespoke.
At Viero UK, we’re seeing how finishes such as Venetian plaster, decorative plasters, and textured paints are being used not just as backgrounds, but as defining elements of interior design.
The Rise of Warm Neutrals and Colour Depth
Neutral colour schemes are still very much in play, but the palette has shifted. Instead of cool greys and stark whites, warm based whites, those with yellow or brown undertones, are gaining popularity. These warmer neutrals help balance cool natural light and create a more welcoming atmosphere, particularly in spaces with large windows or high ceilings.
This ties naturally into the trend of tonal decorating, where a single hue is used across a room but varied in strength, tint, and temperature. A sage plaster wall might be paired with slightly lighter trim, or a soft peach Venetian finish might be echoed in textiles and joinery. Popular tones span warm neutrals, sage greens, soft peach, navy, and slate - all of which work beautifully when applied in layered plaster or microcement finishes, providing richness without feeling over‑styled.
Texture as a Design Language
Natural textures are set to dominate interiors in 2026, helping rooms feel grounded and comfortable. Soft woven fabrics, washed linens, warm timber accents, and handcrafted ceramics are being paired with walls that invite touch and connection.
Mineral‑based plasters such as Visocalce Craters and Travertine deliver that raw, lithic quality that resonates with this trend. Their subtle imperfections and textural depth bring warmth and a comforting material presence that painted surfaces cannot match.
Similarly, microcement continues to grow in popularity for its ability to create seamless surfaces on floors, walls, and even ceilings. Its liquid stone effect can link interior and exterior spaces, especially when carried from an open‑plan living room onto an outdoor terrace. The smooth, jointless look makes spaces feel larger and more cohesive, while still remaining warm and tactile.
Colour Inspirations
Colour trends are shifting in interesting ways. Coffee bean colours, including rich, espresso browns, are emerging as a popular alternative to black, particularly in spaces that favour earthy, grounded schemes. These tones mingle beautifully with warm neutrals and enhance plaster finishes that play with texture and light.
Blues remain influential too, especially deeper, slate or ink hues. When used with tonal decorating, they can add sophistication and calm, particularly in bedrooms or study spaces.
Another source of inspiration is the Murano effect. Just as Murano glass captivates with soft pastels, gentle swirls, and light‑catching detail, designers are translating this into wall finishes that suggest movement, subtle colour shifts, and surface sparkle. This doesn’t mean bright colours; it means finishes that catch and reflect light in thoughtful ways, something Venetian plasters like Lithos excel at.
Personalisation and the Made‑By‑Hand Aesthetic
People are increasingly looking to personalise their homes and make them reflect their identity. Searches for personalised decor have surged, and more clients are seeking finishes that feel bespoke rather than generic. Wall surfaces are no longer an afterthought; they are part of the emotional story of a room.
This move towards personal expression pairs perfectly with handcrafted materials. Lime plaster finishes such as Veneto and Vellario develop rich patinas over time, and no two applications are ever the same. The inherent variation and subtle movement in these finishes give each wall a unique character that feels intimate and intentional.
Similarly, finishes like Krakkle, which forms natural cracks and texture as it cures, highlight an appreciation for the maker’s hand, for surface detail that can’t be mass‑produced. These bespoke qualities bring warmth, comfort, and soul to contemporary interiors.
Looking to Bring These Trends to Life?
If you're specifying for a project or planning a bespoke interior scheme, Viero UK's finishes offer the perfect balance of craft, texture, and performance. From rich Venetian plasters and breathable lime coatings to seamless microcements, our materials are designed to meet the creative and technical needs of modern interiors.
Request a sample to experience the depth and quality of our finishes first-hand, or call us on 0870 609 2827 to speak with our team about specifying the right products for your project.
Need expert application? Our trained artisans install nationwide across residential and commercial projects. Prefer to source materials directly? Visit our online shop to order today.