Recapping 3 Days of Design

Emerging trends, straight from the front lines

I just got back from my first ever solo design show and believe me when I say I am INSPIRED. The goal of the trip was to get out of my comfy Pinterest bubble and actually see some things IRL. I booked it a week before I left (in true Hawkey fashion) and stayed for only 36 hours, but I saw so much and I’m here to share it all with you (my small but mighty cohort of readers).

For those who might not know, 3 Days of Design is the largest design show in Scandinavia, where the whole city of Copenhagen opens its doors to design fanatics like me. Shops host workshops, talks, and happy hours, and studios are transformed into breathtaking exhibitions. It’s heaven-on-earth, made even better by the food and shopping.

I’ll start with the fun design stuff since I’m sure that’s what you’re all here for (the packing and shopping will come in a separate post later this week). Based on what I saw, here are 3 emerging trends (I hate that word…movements?) that I believe will be reigning supreme in 2026 and beyond:

Heavy Metal

I mean it when I say metal is IN. From vases to countertops, this previously “cold” material is now the hottest thing on the market. I can be prone to trends, but my personal opinion would be to start small with maybe a vase or some coffee cups. No need to rip out your kitchen yet (I’m talking to myself).

Like many design movements, this more recent iteration likely emerged first through fashion—as evidenced by the shift from gold to silver jewelry. I appreciated this design forward (less western) take on silver, and while I believe most jewelry needs to be of the sterling variety, I sort of think home decor metal can be done inexpensively. For reference:

I have these cups, this candle holder and this side table.

I also love these mugs, this vase, this tray and these coasters.

Airy Linens

I remember telling my sounding board (AKA my mother) last spring that I thought lacy, frilly (but not too frilly), starched linens would be swinging back into style in 2025. I believed in this vision so much that I had a sample of a lace tablecloth made as a potential first product for my non-existent company (it’s called manifestation). It wasn’t right and I wasn’t ready, so I never shared it, but trust me when I say I really did embrace this concept before it was cool.

Anyway, Tekla (a favorite of mine) debuted their new Broderie anglaise bedding at the show, which obviously felt like a moment of personal victory. Ragbag Studio and POUF put on the most spectacular exhibit positively dripping in airy linens, as did the Saba/Armadillo/Openhouse/Henrietta Schou exhibit.

I hereby proclaim the search is over. I’d just bite the bullet and get this bedding.

Since no big brand has done the tablecloths right yet, I’d scour Etsy for something like this or this.

If you’re feeling wild, and really want some airy linens, I recently saw that Melanie Masarin got the Nordic Knots drapes and they look divine.

Tonal Textures

Say it with me “I am not afraid of dark, heavy textures. I like deep colors.”

As someone who has always gravitated towards lighter, more muted color palettes, this new phase has taken some work, but I’m happy to be here. I still like my space and my clothing to feel cool (as opposed to warm) so I’d tend to stick to blue/green undertones if I were adding in some deeper colors (see this post about the color pink). You can also reference my wedding color palette, which I very bravely made dark, fall hues. See, my affirmations are working.

Anyway, I saw lots of walnut wood, richly toned carpets, and heavily textured throws, which felt like a nice balance to the cold metal and the light linens discussed above. Again, if overhauling your furniture is not an option, start with a blanket, a rug, or even a picture frame.

I like this, this, this, and this.

That’s it! The rest of this recap is coming later this week, promise!

Xx,

Serena

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