At the end of last year, I shared my predictions for what 2026 might hold for the world of upcycled furniture. Now that we’re actually here, it feels like the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and see which trends have held firm, which have evolved, and which have surprised us along the way.
The world has continued to shift at pace, and with it, the way people buy, value, and live with furniture. Here’s an honest look at how those 2026 predictions are shaping up so far.
Sustainability: Still the Driving Force, but More Informed
Sustainability was at the very top of my predictions, and that hasn’t changed. What has changed is how informed customers have become. In 2026, buyers are asking better questions – not just is it sustainable?, but how is it sustainable?
There’s a growing awareness around:
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The lifespan of finishes and materials
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The environmental impact of paints and sealers
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Whether a piece is genuinely saved from landfill or simply restyled for trend
Upcycled furniture is no longer a ‘nice idea’ purchase. It’s a considered choice, and that shift has strengthened the value of truly thoughtful, well-made pieces.
Colour Palettes: Softer, Calmer, and More Layered
I predicted a move away from overly bold, trend-led colours, and that’s largely proven true. While colour is still very much alive, 2026 has leaned towards calmer, more liveable tones.
We’re seeing:
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Muted greens, clay pinks, and warm stone shades
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Complex neutrals with undertones rather than flat greys
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Layered finishes that add depth rather than high contrast
Interestingly, customers seem more confident choosing colour when it feels timeless, rather than chasing what’s currently popular on social media.
Craftsmanship Over Speed
One of my hopes for 2026 was a move away from fast, mass-produced ‘upcycled-style’ furniture. While it hasn’t disappeared, there is a noticeable shift towards craftsmanship and story-led pieces.
Buyers are increasingly drawn to:
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Hand-finished details
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Traditional techniques paired with modern design
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Furniture that feels personal rather than replicated
This change hasn’t made the process quicker or easier, but it has made the work more valued – and that feels like a positive step forward.
Vintage Shapes Are Leading the Way
The popularity of genuine vintage furniture has only grown. Rather than modern pieces made to look old, customers are gravitating towards original forms with history and character.
In particular:
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Mid-century silhouettes continue to perform well
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Smaller-scale furniture suits modern homes
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Classic shapes are being refreshed with contemporary finishes
The charm of a piece that has already lived a life seems more appealing than ever in 2026.
Social Media: Less Perfection, More Process
I expected a move towards authenticity, but the shift has been stronger than anticipated. Highly polished, showroom-style content is giving way to real workshops, real hands, and real process.
People want to see:
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The transformation journey, not just the reveal
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The imperfections and problem-solving along the way
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The maker behind the piece
For upcycled furniture businesses, this has created space for deeper connection rather than constant performance.
What’s Changed Since the Prediction?
Perhaps the biggest change is confidence – both from makers and buyers. Upcycled furniture in 2026 feels less like a trend and more like an established, respected choice.
Customers are:
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Willing to wait for the right piece
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Happier to invest in quality over quantity
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Less swayed by fleeting interior trends
And as makers, there’s a growing permission to slow down, refine, and create with intention.
Looking Ahead
If the start of 2026 has taught us anything, it’s that upcycled furniture is no longer about keeping up. It’s about standing still long enough to create something meaningful.
The predictions may shift, styles may evolve, but the heart of upcycling – sustainability, creativity, and respect for craftsmanship – feels more solid than ever.
And that’s a future I’m very happy to be part of.