6 KBB Trends for 2026: Colour, Texture and Material

As we look ahead to 2026, kbb Birmingham identifies a decisive shift in kitchen, bedroom and bathroom design; the era of cool minimalism is giving way to spaces rich in tactile materials and considered colour palettes. The defining trend sees colour and texture become inextricably linked, where richness and expression are delivered through materials rather than simply surface treatments. 

Materials take centre stage

The overarching movement for 2026 centres on colour that is introduced through authentic materials. Stained wood, the varied tones of oak and ash, coloured concrete and plaster - think tactile surfaces for 2026 that create a depth that paint cannot replicate. Natural stone with its varied finishes, hand-painted tiles and richly textured surfaces define the new aesthetic, creating a warmth and tactility that invites touch. 

The drenching effect: Colour and wood

Colour drenching continues its reach in the home beyond paint, to encompass joinery, worktops and fixed furniture within a single, cohesive shade. This technique creates a dramatic impact in showrooms and finished installations alike. For clients hesitant about full commitment, strategic application on kitchen islands, cabinet runs or statement pieces delivers visual impact without overwhelming spaces.

Wood drenching follows the same principle, enveloping rooms in timber across floors, walls, ceilings and furniture. Platform data shows searches for “oak kitchen” have increased by as much as 214% (Houzz), confirming sustained commercial demand.

Lighter shades create an open, airy feel in a room, while darker tones add intimacy to larger rooms. One key reminder: limit wood varieties to two or three finishes maximum to maintain cohesion and avoid using a large amount in high-moisture environments like bathrooms. For a more subtle approach, focus on one or two elements, like a beautifully finished wood-panelled accent wall in the bedroom.

Fluted finishes and textural innovation

Ribbed textures and wave-like panels bring fluidity and softness to contemporary design, working equally well in wood, laminate or glass applications. These finishes offer practical advantages, disguising fingerprints and wear far more effectively than high-gloss alternatives. British manufacturer, Whitebirk Sink Company, exemplifies this trend with their handmade fireclay kitchen sinks with fluted fronts, including the Barley Wave, Pendleton Wave and Lostock Wave ranges, all launching at kbb Birmingham 2026. Pairing fluted surfaces with smooth planes creates distinctive, contemporary schemes that photograph exceptionally well, making them essential for showroom marketing and social media engagement. 

The Colour Palette: Bold meets nuanced

Deep reds and burgundies will continue their dominance into 2026. This striking colour choice will expand its influence, with large blocks of colours rather than accent pieces (think colour drenching). Pair with warm, earthy neutrals and velvet textiles to create a luxe look that balances bold with sophistication.

Searches for “pink bathroom” are up by 114%, “pink kitchen” by 112% and “pink bedroom” by 60% among users of the Houzz platform. But forget the usual cliches, pink is a versatile shade that lends itself to layering – soft blush and powder tones provide base palettes, whilst fuchsia and rich berry shades create focal points. Bathroom fixtures manufacturer, Vado’s Cameo range of vanity units, basins and WC units in Clay Pink illustrates the appeal of a soft pink perfectly.

Green completes the 2026 colour trio, offering particular resonance for clients seeking nature-inspired schemes. Sage, olive, moss and emerald tones work seamlessly with the natural wood and stone finishes that dominate material trends. The new Evora Lack range from Nolte Küchen includes Black Green, Olive and Avocado colour options to tie in with this trend. These shades are also especially effective in bathrooms and bedrooms, creating calming environments whilst maintaining commercial appeal. Green’s versatility extends from soft, muted tones in ceramic tiles to bold statement cabinetry in kitchens, making it an essential colour story for comprehensive showroom displays.

A practical finishing touch

Once a regular feature in family kitchens, rugs have been largely overlooked in recent years. However, kitchen rugs and runners are returning as both practical solutions and design elements. Beyond floor protection, they introduce colour, pattern and an extra layer of comfort – particularly valuable in open-plan spaces where kitchen zones benefit from definition. This trend offers accessible entry points for customers exploring colour without commitment to permanent installations.

Stone: From classic marble to coloured statement pieces

Marble maintains its position as a timeless material, valued for its versatility and compatibility with wood, metals and engineered alternatives. Be aware of the weight; full marble baths require a structural assessment before specification. To tie in with the drenching trend, choose one piece of real marble for a low-traffic area, like a kitchen or bathroom wall, then you can get away with quartz or marble-effect for high-traffic areas, to reduce the investment.

Coloured stone represents an emerging trend. Marble, granite and quartzite in bold hues with distinctive veining allow customers to express personality through permanent, high-value installations. We are excited to see a variety of stunning natural, stone finishes from brands such as Wextrade, Vadara and The Marble Group that will truly define a living space. For a minimalist look, go for accents, such as a sink splashback, storage unit, or accessories.

One final, but important point: consider your lighting when you are planning your colours and textures. Getting this right will enhance the mood you want your colours and textures to create, not diminish it. Lighting schemes should be considered and confirmed alongside material selections, to ensure the intended mood is achieved. 

Looking Ahead

As we begin 2026, the message to the KBB sector is clear: customers want spaces that feel tactile, colourful and connected to natural materials. From solid wood kitchens to earthy-toned bathrooms featuring fluted textures, the shift away from stark minimalism towards warmer, more personal interiors is unmistakable.

Visit kbb Birmingham in 2026 to experience these innovations firsthand and discover how leading manufacturers are translating trends into tangible products.