An interior design expert from Essex has issued a stark warning to homeowners, urging them to steer clear of two major trends set to dominate in 2026 if they want to maintain a classic and cost-effective aesthetic.
The Costly Mistakes That Date Your Decor
Hayley Fellows-Prior, of Atelier 44 Design Studio, took to social media platform TikTok at the start of January 2026 to share her professional advice. Her focus is on creating enduring, 'timeless' interiors, and she highlighted that certain fashionable choices represent expensive errors that are difficult to reverse. She emphasised these are not small, easily swapped accessories, but significant commitments that lock in your style and budget.
1. The Problem with Colour Blocking
Fellows-Prior named colour blocking as her first trend to avoid, acknowledging her view might be controversial given its recent popularity. She understands the appeal, noting it can effectively zone spaces and create bold statements.
However, she argues that the trend of using bold, contrasting bands or geometric shapes directly on walls has peaked. This approach severely limits future decorating options, dictating furniture choices and colour palettes for the entire room. Once painted, changing this look is a costly and disruptive process.
Her timeless alternative? Introduce dynamic geometric shapes and vibrant colour through artwork and softer furnishings. This achieves a similar visual impact but allows for far greater flexibility and easier updates as tastes evolve.
2. Why Oversized Statement Furniture Fails
The designer's second warning concerns the allure of oversized sofas and armchairs. While she admits a personal fondness for statement pieces, she cautions that their size and shape are often impractical.
These large items may photograph well but frequently overwhelm the proportions of an average UK living room. They dominate the space, restricting furniture arrangement and making rooms feel smaller. Furthermore, such distinctly shaped pieces tend to fall out of fashion quickly, leaving homeowners with a costly replacement dilemma.
The smarter investment, according to Fellows-Prior, is in a classic-shaped sofa or chair upholstered in a neutral or textured fabric. Personality and trend-led accents can then be introduced through cushions, throws, and smaller occasional chairs—items that are simple and affordable to refresh seasonally.
Investing in Long-Term Style
The core message from the Essex-based designer is one of strategic longevity over fleeting fashion. By avoiding these two specific trends—colour blocking on walls and disproportionately large furniture—homeowners can create adaptable spaces that remain stylish for years to come. This approach not only cultivates a timeless aesthetic but also protects your wallet from the high cost of frequent, radical redecorating.
