Modern interior design in New York City is defined by crisp, clean lines and simplicity. It’s seen in the resurgence of minimalism and recent Color of the Year picks leaning into neutrals—think Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer.
While some recent trends are embracing a bit of eccentricity and eclectic vibes to make spaces feel more personalized, rarely do these styles stray too far from modernism. For many NYC dwellers, it’s baked into the architecture of newer apartments and condos. Even in historic districts, renovations have stripped away some of this older character into something more versatile.
At Janovic, our design team has been working with professional designers in New York City for decades while watching the rise of modern interior design. Here are a few hallmarks of the style and how designers can make the most of it.
Embrace Sustainability
Some designers argue that minimalism is out, but we think it’s just reinvented itself in 2026. Sustainability is a driver of many design decisions. It’s economic and habit-conscious. Rather than buy something new, we’re starting to find ways to get more mileage out of what we already own. Rather than fill up shelves with décor just because we can, we’re more intentional with our décor, allowing statement pieces to shine and complement color decisions in other parts of a space.
Modern interior décor means minimizing visual clutter through the power of clean lines and simple color palettes.
It’s not what most designers think of when they hear the word “sustainability,” but this follows the philosophy by making sure your design investments are built to last and versatile enough to make a statement for years, rather than during one trend cycle. It’s why we love sheer shades and roller shades that sit neatly in your window frame while softening incoming light and gently illuminating your space.
Incorporate Wood
Wood elements evoke warmth and coziness. It’s a tool designers need in their arsenal for making the most of modern interior design. Many modern spaces are absent of wainscotting, mouldings, and other large, built-in wooden fixtures like hand-crafted cabinetry and fireplaces. Wood helps replace some of this lost character without combating the modern aesthetics of your apartment.
We see woven wood shades and solar shades continuing to make an impact on modern interiors in 2026. Options like Alustra® Woven Textures Roller Shades in woven fabrics like the terra-hued, sandy Hammock CPR-400 and the deep, cool brown of Heritage LSB-900 make a statement with clean visuals and luxurious light control that filters sunlight during the day and softens artificial streetlight when the sun goes down.
Pair with furniture where modern and cozy meet, like a wooden collapsing side table for a narrow space or sleek lamp bases with woven wood lampshades.
Embrace Technology
It’s not just about the textures. Modern interior décor also marks itself by functionality. Motorized window treatments are a staple in many NYC apartments and lofts already. They’re convenient and pair with a wide array of window coverings without cluttering up your space with visible motors, wires, or batteries. Even without a décor facelift, incorporating automatic window treatments into your apartment can reap major benefits, both in terms of lifestyle and your energy bills!
Refresh Your Apartment with Modern Window Treatments near NYC
Want to learn more about how modern window treatments can give your modern apartment a facelift? The design team at Janovic has been working with our Manhattan neighbors for decades. Let us help you create a space you love to spend time in.
We are located throughout the New York City area, including Manhattan, SoHo, Chelsea, Long Island City, Gramercy Park, Hell’s Kitchen, Lower East Side, Throgs Neck, The Bronx, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Uptown West, and Yorkville.
