When it comes to property value, suitable interior design is important for more than just looks. Careful design choices affect how buyers see a property and can impact its future value.

Recent data from Featherington Interiors shows that staged homes could sell for 8-10% more than unstaged homes. This clearly means a £350,000 property could be worth up to £35,000 more. This highlights the financial impact of design, making it an innovative investment for homeowners.

If you are planning renovations, good design can lead to better results.

Let’s look at five interior design choices that may increase your property value in 2026.

Key Interior Design Upgrades for Maximising Property Value

Here are the five key interior design upgrades for maximising property value in 2026:

• Maximise Natural Light

Natural light is a key factor for home buyers. It makes rooms feel larger, boosts mood, and improves overall well-being. Increasing natural light in your residence can create a more inviting and refreshing atmosphere.

To increase natural light, use large windows or folding doors. If you can’t make structural changes, use mirrors to reflect light in your space. Painting walls and ceilings in light colours can also help brighten smaller spaces.

In 2026, homes that let in much natural light will attract buyers who care about energy efficiency and sustainable living.

• Choose Wall Finishes That Age Gracefully

Wall finishes are often overlooked, but they can greatly affect the look of your home and its value.

Paint chips. Wallpaper peels. But handcrafted finishes such as Venetian plaster or clay plaster add a quiet sense of luxury that lasts; no tiles to clean, no yearly touch-ups.

UK-based studio Evoke Polished Plastering is leading this transition with their range of bespoke, hand-applied finishes. Learn more about their work at evokepolishedplastering.co.uk.

Choosing these stylish wall treatments helps keep your home attractive over the years without needing annual maintenance.

• Upgrade Storage Solutions

Smart storage is vital in every home, especially in small spaces where every square foot counts. Homebuyers prefer properties with practical, well-organised storage options.

Essential features like built-in closets, custom shelves, and multi-functional furniture can help make the most of the space while keeping rooms tidy.

Consider using creative storage solutions in key areas, such as under-bed storage, attic or basement conversations, and wall-mounted units in living rooms or kitchens.

This year, homebuyers want homes that blend style and practicality, and smart storage options can increase a home’s value. An organised home is more attractive, making it convenient and lasting.

• Invest in High-Quality Flooring

The type of flooring you choose greatly impacts your home’s look and value. Premium, durable flooring not only boosts the appearance of your space but also increases your home’s overall value.

Whether you prefer hardwood, natural stone, or high-quality carpeting, flooring that lasts is a smart investment.

Wooden floors, for example, are a timeless option that adds warmth and character to any room. They are easy to maintain, long-lasting, and always in demand.

Natural stone, like marble or granite, provides elegance and sophistication, making it an excellent option for kitchens and bathrooms. Although these materials can be expensive upfront, they ultimately add lasting value to your home.

• Refresh Kitchen and Bathroom Layouts

Kitchens and bathrooms are crucial spaces for homebuyers. Updating these areas can increase your property’s value. You don’t always need a complete remodel; sometimes, small changes can make a big difference.

For kitchens, consider an open-plan layout. This design allows easy movement between cooking, dining, and living areas. It’s invaluable for families or those who like to host gatherings. In bathrooms, replacing old fixtures with modern ones can refresh the space without a complete renovation.

In 2024, 71% of UK homeowners who renovated their properties focused on kitchen and bathroom upgrades, making these the most common improvements to boost resale appeal.

If your budget lets, invest in energy-efficient appliances or water-saving fixtures. These small shifts can attract buyers who care about the environment. Overall, these upgrades can improve your home’s usefulness, appearance, and fit with modern lifestyles.

Conclusion

You can maximise your property’s value through interior design without a full renovation. Focus on improving natural light, durable wall treatments, improving storage, and even updating the kitchen and bathroom to attract buyers in 2026.

These design updates will make your home both more practical and visually appealing, helping it last over time.

Whether you plan to sell your home or want to create a more enjoyable living space, these improvements can provide lasting benefits and satisfaction.