Winter 2026 interior design is defined by warmth, permanence, and intentional display. As homeowners move away from fast décor and toward long-term investment pieces, solid wood picture frames with real glass are leading the conversation. At the same time, large-format art and photography are dominating walls — especially in matte black finishes.
This guide breaks down the top Winter 2026 framing trends, how to style them, and which frame materials perform best in colder months when lighting, texture, and depth matter most.
Frame Amo is a Texas-based, family-owned picture frame company serving customers across the United States. From Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio to New York, California, Florida, Illinois, and beyond, we ship premium solid wood picture frames nationwide. Whether you're decorating a mountain home in Colorado, a modern apartment in Chicago, or a coastal property in California, Winter 2026 framing trends are shaping interior design across every U.S. climate zone.
Trend #1: Solid Wood Frames Are Replacing Composite & Plastic
Interior designers have steadily shifted back toward natural materials. According to trend reporting from Architectural Digest and Elle Decor, 2026 emphasizes authenticity — natural grain, visible texture, and craftsmanship over synthetic finishes1.
Solid wood frames provide:
- Structural rigidity (no warping in seasonal temperature shifts)
- Higher-end visual depth
- Longer lifespan compared to MDF or plastic
- Better long-term value retention
Our Signature Solid Wood + Tempered Glass Frames are constructed from premium moulding and available in five winter-ready finishes:
- Black (modern contrast)
- White (clean gallery look)
- Walnut (warm and organic)
- Brazilian Walnut (rich warm texture)
- Natural (crisp neutral aesthetic)
Why Tempered Glass Matters in Winter
Winter décor often involves moving pieces for holidays, hosting, and seasonal styling. Tempered glass is approximately 4x stronger than standard glass and breaks into small, blunt fragments if damaged2. This makes it significantly safer and more durable for homes with pets, children, or high-traffic spaces.
Watch: Solid Wood + Tempered Glass in Action
Trend #2: Oversized Black Frames Dominate Winter 2026
Large-format art continues to trend upward. Pinterest’s trend forecasting data shows a continued rise in searches for “oversized wall art” and “large black frames” heading into 20263.
Why oversized frames are trending this winter:
- They anchor open-concept living spaces
- They create high contrast against neutral winter palettes
- They reduce visual clutter compared to busy gallery walls
- They photograph well for social and listing photography
Our Large Solid Wood + Plexiglass Frames (Black Only) are designed specifically for statement sizes like 36x48, 40x60, 48x72, and larger. Plexiglass (acrylic glazing) reduces weight and shatter risk while maintaining clarity — critical for large-scale display.
Tempered Glass vs. Plexiglass: Which Is Better?
Use tempered glass for sizes up to mid-range where clarity and scratch resistance are priorities.
Use plexiglass for oversized frames where weight reduction and safety are critical.
Acrylic glazing can be up to 50% lighter than glass depending on thickness4, making it ideal for large wall installations.
Watch: Oversized Solid Wood + Plexiglass Frames
Trend #3: Winter Layering — Frames + Mats
Minimalism is evolving into “warm minimalism” in 20261. That means adding subtle depth without clutter. Double matting, white borders, and wider mouldings are increasingly popular.
Winter styling tips:
- Use white mats to brighten darker winter rooms
- Choose walnut or black frames for contrast against snow-toned walls
- Pair warm tones with holiday décor
Explore our full range of solid wood picture frames to match your winter color palette.
Trend #4: Framing Photography Instead of Buying Art
Consumers are shifting toward personal content: ski trips, winter travel, engagement photos, and seasonal family portraits. Google Trends shows sustained growth in searches for “print and frame photos” heading into 20265.
Framing personal photography offers:
- Higher emotional value
- Lower cost than purchasing large artwork
- Custom sizing flexibility
Our frames are designed to work with standard print lab sizes and are built with display depth that supports professional photo prints.
Winter Framing Trends Across the United States
Winter décor varies across regions of the United States. In colder northern states like Minnesota, Michigan, and New York, homeowners often choose warm walnut and natural wood finishes to soften darker seasonal light. In Texas and southern states like Arizona and Florida, black and neutral frames pair well with bright, modern interiors that receive year-round sunlight.
Oversized black plexiglass frames are especially popular in open-concept homes throughout Texas, California, and Florida, where large wall spaces call for statement art. Meanwhile, layered matting and tempered glass frames remain consistent favorites in Midwest and Northeast homes that prioritize durability during winter hosting and holiday gatherings.
Winter 2026 Color Direction
Key winter 2026 framing colors include:
- Deep black (dominant)
- Warm walnut brown
- Soft neutrals
- Muted white
Black continues to lead for oversized frames, especially when paired with high-contrast photography or sports prints.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top picture frame trends for Winter 2026?
Solid wood frames, tempered glass glazing, oversized black frames, and layered matting are the dominant trends.
Are solid wood frames better than MDF?
Yes. Solid wood provides greater structural stability, durability, and long-term visual appeal compared to MDF or composite materials.
Is tempered glass worth it?
Tempered glass is stronger and safer than regular glass. It is highly recommended for mid-size frames and homes with active environments.
When should I choose plexiglass over glass?
Choose plexiglass for oversized frames where weight reduction and shatter resistance are priorities.
Final Takeaway: Invest in Structure, Not Just Style
Winter 2026 décor is about permanence. Instead of seasonal throwaway décor, homeowners are investing in quality frames that last through multiple style cycles.
As a Texas-based frame company serving customers nationwide, we understand how framing needs vary from state to state. Whether you're refreshing a ranch-style home in Central Texas, a brownstone in Boston, or a modern condo in Los Angeles, investing in solid wood frames with tempered glass or plexiglass supports long-term durability and timeless style.
If you’re refreshing your space this winter anywhere in the United States, start with structure:
Choose materials that support your art — and your walls — for years to come.
References
- Architectural Digest. 2026 Interior Design Forecast.
- International Code Council. Tempered Glass Safety Standards.
- Pinterest Predicts 2026 Trend Report.
- Plastics Industry Association. Acrylic vs Glass Weight Comparisons.
- Google Trends Data, Search Term: "print and frame photos" (2025-2026).
