Buying Less in 2026: Why Our Homes Don’t Need More Stuff—They Need More Intention

Happy New Year!

As we move into 2026, I’ve been thinking a lot about how social media shapes the way we see our homes—and how often it quietly tells us that something is missing. As an interior designer and a business owner, I see this every day: beautiful spaces overshadowed by the pressure to constantly buy, update, and keep up.

Let me be clear from the start: buying things is not bad.

Trends are not the enemy. New pieces can absolutely bring joy, inspiration, and function into a home.

But what does deserve a second look is the pace and volume at which we’re encouraged to consume.

The Shift From Inspiration to Overconsumption

Social media has blurred the line between inspiration and influence. Every scroll introduces a new “must-have” item, framed as the one thing standing between you and a finished, beautiful home. Trends turn over faster than ever, and suddenly perfectly good pieces feel outdated simply because they’re no longer trending.

Design shouldn’t feel like a race.

In 2026, I’m choosing to be more intentional—to let trends inspire rather than dictate, and to buy from a place of balance instead of impulse.

A Home Should Reflect You, Not Just the Moment

The most meaningful homes I’ve designed aren’t trend-heavy or constantly changing. They’re layered, personal spaces filled with pieces collected over time—some old, some new, some on-trend, some timeless.

Incorporating trends can be fun and energizing, especially when they align with your personal style. The key is using trends as accents, not anchors. When trends complement what you already love instead of replacing it, your home feels cohesive and authentic.

Your home should reflect who you are, not just what’s popular right now.

Buying New—With Intention

Buying new pieces is absolutely okay. Sometimes it’s necessary. Sometimes it’s joyful. Sometimes a space truly does need something fresh.

The shift I’m embracing in 2026 is asking better questions before bringing something home:

• Does this serve a purpose or solve a problem?

• Will I still love this when the trend fades?

• How does this work with what I already own?

Balance doesn’t mean never buying—it means buying thoughtfully.

We Don’t Need More Stuff, We Need Better Display

One of the most impactful changes you can make in your home often has nothing to do with shopping. It’s about editing, rearranging, and elevating what’s already there.

That might look like:

• Styling shelves with fewer, more meaningful objects

• Rearranging artwork instead of buying new pieces

• Rotating decor seasonally instead of storing more

• Letting negative space exist

• Investing in storage that allows favorite items to be seen

Good design isn’t about filling every surface—it’s about intention and breathing room.

From Consumption to Curation

As a business owner, I believe this mindset is healthier and more sustainable—for our homes and for ourselves. Constant consumption leads to clutter, visual noise, and decision fatigue. Curation creates clarity.

Buying less doesn’t mean caring less about design. It means caring more about what earns a place in your home.

Moving Forward With Balance

In 2026, I’m choosing balance over excess. I’m choosing to buy when it makes sense, incorporate trends when they align, and pause when something doesn’t truly add value.

Your home doesn’t need constant updating. It needs intention, personality, and room to evolve.

Sometimes the best design decision isn’t about what to buy next—it’s about knowing when enough is enough.

Happy Designing!