At Decor + Design, we love to go deep on surfaces. The right paint, wallpaper or panelling provides the perfect frame for a room.
For the 22nd edition of Australia’s favourite interior design trade event, 15 – 17 July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre, we’ll be introducing a brand-new feature of all our favourite surface exhibitors. The Surface Edit will be the place for interior designers, architects and retailers to see surface treatments and wall decor including art and photography.
In the meantime, let’s check out some current surface trends that we are absolutely loving.
Lovely, Dark Woods
Darker woods like walnut, mahogany and smoked oak are surging in popularity right now, according to Architectural Digest. These give a warmth and richness, as well as a high-end architectural feeling that is harder to achieve with pale oak.
We love the way darker woods have been harnessed in the bushland home of Fiona Spence, co-founder of Spence & Lyda.
Fiona has reimagined the interiors of her 1950s home near Sydney with mid-century feel and stunning woods from the local region. It is a deserved finalist for Best Residential Interior in the 2025 Belle Fanuli Interior Design Awards.
The Dramatic Return of Wallpaper
Wallpaper has firmly shaken off its reputation as daggy and outdated, receiving a massive rebrand over the last few years as a glamourous way to add texture and drama to interiors.
We love the Hoh x Milton x King wallpaper collection (pictured left) from designer Silvana Azzi Heras, who spoke at the International Seminar Series at Decor + Design 2025, Australia’s most prestigious annual speaking program of design leaders. Silvana is a creative tour de force whose career spans the worlds of film, theatre, and homewares, each medium serving as a canvas for her rich storytelling and bold design vision.
From her work on iconic films like Moulin Rouge! and The Great Gatsby to launching her own brand, House of Heras, Silvana has mastered the art of weaving history, nature, and tradition into layered, expressive designs that resonate deeply with audiences. This collection incorporates vintage elements in designs that are both nostalgic and fresh.
Sustainable & Healthy Surfaces
Kitchen and bathroom surfaces are taking major leaps forward in sustainability and innovation. Our confirmed 2026 exhibitor VICOSTONE has introduced a new product line that is crystalline silica-free. This sets a new standard for safety and environmental responsibility and enhancing wellbeing. The company also leads the way in renewable energy, 100% recycled wastewater and eco-friendly materials.
Image: Vicostone
If you’re a surfaces brand and would like to be part of The Surface Edit at Decor + Design, please reach out to our exhibition team by completing this form. If you’re keen to visit Australia’s definitive destination for interior design, subscribe now and you’ll receive all the juicy details in the lead-up to the 22nd edition, 15 – 17 2026 July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
Top Image of Article: Architectural Digest