Every season, every new collection, there’s a common thread – a recurring motif that dominates the trends for the months ahead. Last summer it was the sardine; in fall, tapestry prints took center stage; in winter, bows were everywhere. And for spring? You might expect florals, but another trend is soaring into the design scene, ready to land in our homes. This spring, it’s all about birds.
They have found a perch at the top of this year's spring trends, appearing in the new collections of some of our favorite homewares brands, including Magnolia, McGee & Co., and Anthropologie. Historically, this motif has swayed one of two ways – as a decorative feature in traditional interior design, or as a whimsical detail in children's bedrooms. But for 2026, bird motifs have shaken off their trad-leaning style and are being used fresh, more on-trend styles.
There have been lots of animal inspirations seeping into the world of interior design recently. Over the past few years, we've seen a major spike in the interest to decorate with animal prints like leopard and zebra. And just last summer, the fisherman aesthetic was at an all time high – encouraging us to fill our homes with everything from fish-shaped platters to sardine wall decor. And even more recently, the equestrian trend is jolting in popularity.
According to interior designer Terri Brien, the reason bird motifs are popping up so much in design right now is because of what they represent. 'There is such a strong movement right now toward character-driven homes with real personality – which I'm here for,' Terri explains. 'After years of very pared back, neutral spaces, people are craving change, personality, and self-expression. Bird motifs offer that without feeling overly heavy or formal. They feel familiar, but still different.'
When it comes to the ways in which you can bring bird motifs and bird-inspired decor into your home, the sky is the limit. Since you can find the motif in all forms – as allover printed wallpaper or little tabletop figurines – knowing how to style it comes down to what you desire for your space.
According to Terri, it's important to be thoughtful with how you bring the bird motif into your home. 'Bird motifs are nothing new and have come back time and again throughout history, which is why they can have staying power if used properly,' the designer explains.
'Before incorporating them, it is important to consider your existing aesthetic or the direction you are heading and ask if this truly fits,' Terri recommends. 'Used with restraint and in the right way, bird motifs can absolutely feel timeless rather than tied to a single season.'
If you're interested in styling wallpaper adorned with birds, Terri suggests trying it in your powder room. 'It is a small room that can pack a big punch, and because you do not linger there, you are less likely to grow tired of something bold,' Terri explains. Morris & Co.'s Strawberry Thief would be a great wallpaper to try in your powder room – available in five colorways, this wallpaper is both beautiful and bold, adorned with birds, fruits, flowers, and branches.
For a more subtle way to bring the trend into your home, Terri suggests decorating with vintage art that features birds for a characterful look. 'There are so many wonderful vintage print shops, and this approach tends to feel layered rather than trendy,' she explains.
There is the risk that a bird motif can lean slightly childish, however, Terri shares some advice on how to make the motif work for your home. 'To avoid a playful or juvenile feel, especially outside of children’s rooms, scale and context matters,' she explains. 'Skip anything overly literal or cartoonish. Look for more detailed, classic, or slightly aged interpretations. Pair bird motifs with more grounded elements so they feel intentional and integrated rather than themed.'
For wallpaper and upholstery, look for designs with mature color palettes that feel more timeless than trendy. And as Terri suggests, opt for classic interpretations of birds rather than forms that are overly whimsical. This can ensure an enduring look in any room.
Shop the Trend
2026 so far has been all about the whimsical decor, taking design a bit less seriously and introducing playful, personal details that add character to the home. The trend for bird motifs is perfect for adding something fun and unexpected.
