Getting ready to update your home? We're tracking homeowner patterns related to modern design, energy-efficient upgrades, colors, and organic materials.
Before you commit to a trend, pay attention to the bigger picture. Consider upgrades that'll outperform and improve your living spaces. Here's what you'll see in 2026:
1. Tech-Enabled Homes
Smart home technologies continue to anchor themselves throughout households. Vivint’s How We Home report stated that of its 5,000 respondents, 84% had at least one smart device in their home.
In the kitchen, these technologies continue to grow, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. The NKBA/KBIS 2026 Kitchen Design Trends Report found that some integrations are on their way towards mass appeal. The forecast cites excitement around wi-fi and mobile app-controlled dishwashers and vent hoods, motion sensor lighting, and countertop wireless charging.
Backyard tech is increasing in popularity, too. “As homes are becoming smaller on the inside, outdoor space is growing in importance," share Lee Crowder, National Director of Design and Model Experience at Taylor Morrison. "People are treating [outdoor spaces] like a living room.” To make the most of their outdoor living spaces, homeowners are investing in Wi-Fi extenders, robot lawn mowers, smart lighting, and outdoor home theater accessories.
Vivint’s study highlighted the importance of device compatibility. It forecasts that consumers want products that help improve energy-consumption habits. The same cohort of homeowners expressed that security aided by smart devices is a top area of interest, despite concerns about network security and privacy.
One takeaway: Smart home technology can be great… if it’s set up right.
"The single best way to ensure a low-stress smart home setup is to use a professional,” advised Daryl Friedman, Global President & CEO of CEDIA. “Just as an electrician works with complex systems so a homeowner can simply flip a switch, a technology integrator delivers that same lasting ease of use across the home’s technology.”
2. AI Design Planning
Managing a renovation has never come easily, but artificial intelligence is changing the process. "Using technology that is accurate, complete, and detailed to capture accurate scoping data on your home helps ensure that material and labor estimates are based on precise measurements, not on human-error-prone or opaque building data," explains A.J. Altman, Founder and CEO of Hover.
AI makes it easier for designers, contractors, and end-consumers to see a vision come to life. Tools like the one Altman developed make it possible to scale changes and finishes visually to increase confidence and improve precision. "In a market where tariff uncertainty compounds traditional budget pressures, seeing your renovation before you commit isn't just convenient, it's essential for staying on budget," he adds.
3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Environmental consciousness and the use of renewable materials remains important, but as you consider what it means to be sustainable, prioritize products and brands that have U.S.-based manufacturing sites for added efficiencies.
Why? Tariffs are challenging builders and designers to get creative with resources from a budget standpoint. "Canadian lumber accounts for 85% of U.S. imports, and Mexican gypsum, used for drywall, represents 70% of imports––both are impacted by tariffs," highlights Altman. He noted that domestic materials like concrete, stone, and brick can help a homeowner "tariff-proof" their next renovation.
Manufacturers continue to prioritize sustainability in products, too. Mohawk upgraded their engineered hardwoods and invested in Stone Plastic/Polymer Composites that look like wood, but are actually made of stone and recycled plastic. Every square foot of this flooring contains the equivalent of 20 recycled plastic bottles!
Bona also reported on consumer flooring trends, noting that durability was top-of-mind for homeowners. The 2026 Floorcast report also highlighted that 75% of American homeowners would rather restore existing hardwoods than replace them, which reflects upon their interests in environmental responsibility.
When it comes to sustainability in building materials and systems, consumers are drawn to sustainable stone veneer, efficient home energy systems (like electric and geothermal heat pumps), and smart home systems that prioritize energy efficiency.
4. Layered Lighting in Every Space
Daylight is as important as artificial lighting, and when it comes to artificial light sources, experts say that layered lighting is in growing demand.
“Lighting sets the tone for how we live and feel in our home," shared Julee Ireland of Julee Ireland Design Studio for Lutron in its 2026 Luxury Residential Trend Report: Living with Light.
She echoed sentiment from the study, noting the meaningful association between lighting and wellness: "During the day, it’s about maximizing natural light—through our windows, thoughtful orientation, and shades that filter light softly while keeping us connected to the outdoors. In the evening, layered lighting is everything."
Integrating layers of light doesn’t need to be complicated (or dependent on the location of your outlets). LED rechargeable lights are great indoors and out, whether you need task lighting or want to add ambiance in a dark corner of your home.
A few we like:
- Original BTC: The Blossom Portable Light has a charming fluted bone china shade
- Buster + Punch: The Takeout Light is made from solid metal and features the brand’s signature cross-knurl.
- Zafferano: The Pina Pro Lamp is tiny, die-cast, and touch-dimmable
5. Biophilia and Wellness Spaces
From hydrotherapy tubs and indoor gardens to systems that enhance indoor air quality, integrations that focus on well-being satisfy both the physical and emotional.
"Biophilia is the design principle that incorporates natural elements into the built environment," shared Ligas. "This can be done through the use of plants, natural materials, and natural light."
Denise Smith, senior marketing manager at Glen-Gery also emphasizes the use of natural elements and patterns. "Bringing in [organic textures like] brick, or patterns that mirror leaves, branches or even honeycombs, adds more than just visual interest."
6. Neo Deco Design
Predicted by Pinterest in its 2026 Trend Report, Neo Deco revives a retro aesthetic, inserting itself into home decor by way of antique bar cars, red marble, geometric pendant lamps, and leather banquettes.
Houzz leans in too, citing the resurgence of Art Deco and timeless elegance.
Brass and chrome aren't going anywhere this year; consumers and designers alike are leaning into the bold and glamorous as they re-envision interiors.
7. Multifunctional Kitchens
Kitchens... and beyond. This is a trend we've watched evolve through all areas of the home. "As our lives become more hectic, we need our homes to be able to adapt to our changing needs," observes Ligas. "This means designing spaces that can be used for multiple purposes, such as a home office that can also double as a guest room."
Multi-functionality also extends to outdoor spaces. Some of the coolest design ideas we've seen lately highlight investments in covered decks, outdoor kitchen islands, square footage dedicated to storage, and outdoor fireplaces.
Top Color Trends
The globe is still a-buzz about Pantone's controversial Color of the Year, but it's hard to say that color won't be abundant thanks to color drenching from floor to ceiling. A few more 2026 COTY picks include:
Benjamin Moore: Silhouette-AF 655
"Over the past few years, there has been a growing appreciation for the brown color family, particularly in fashion and interior as a sophisticated alternative to black and gray," shares Hannah Yeo, Senior Manager, Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore. She describes their COTY as "a mix of rich espresso hues and subtle notes of charcoal."
Silhouette is the star, but the brand packages it with a unique palette for consumers and designers reinfigorating a home. Other colors include:
- Raindance (1572),
- Swiss Coffee (OC-45)
- First Crush (CSP-310)
- Batik (AF-610)
- Narragansett Green (HC-157)
- Southwest Pottery (048)
- Sherwood Tan (1054)
BlueStar: Purple Violet (RAL #4007)
The manufacturer of professional-grade kitchen appliances highlighted how purples are making a bold, expressive statement in the home. "[It] feels like a natural evolution, rich not only in hue but in emotion," shared Suzanne Shumaker, Principal and Director of Interiors at Shumaker Design Associates.
CertainTeed: Coastal Current Palette
The leading North American manufacturer of building solutions published a palette for homeowners seeking natural and neutral finishes. The palette includes Max Def Moiré Black, Midnight Blue, Pacific Blue, Coastal Storm, Colonial White and Sterling Gray.
"[Homeowners are] opting for color palettes inspired by nature, indicating a steady shift toward refined simplicity and enduring curb appeal," shared the brand in its recent press release.
Material Trends
- Natural materials: There's no debating the beauty and simplicity of sustainable materials and natural materials, such as wood, stone, and marble. Consider these still trending finishes for home improvement projects.
- Textured materials: Textured materials are a great way to add depth and dimension to a space. Brick, bouclé, and terrazzo are strong contenders, but there are countless ways to add to your space. Anderson Tuftex highlights that wool carpets and patinaed hardwood with visible grains and variations are in-demand as consumers select sensory elements to shape spaces.
- Afrobohemian patterns: Pinterest predicts colorful textiles, natural fibers, and Ethiopian wall art to rise in popularity. Watch for bamboo beaded curtains and adire fabric.
- Low-VOC: Indoor air quality (IAQ) continues to be a topic tracked by wellness experts and allergy-sufferers alike. From zero-VOC paint to low-VOC carpets and hardwoods, we'll continue to see brands evolving their products to be healthier for the home.
Best Practices for Planning a Renovation or Redesign
"While it's good to be aware of trends, homeowners should also ensure that their design choices align with their personal preferences, lifestyle, and the practical needs of their family," encourages Octavio Estrada, Senior Architectural Designer for Block Renovation, a streamlined platform where homeowners and contractors can get all of the tools and resources they need to plan and manage major renovation projects.
"Not every trend will be suitable or desirable for every individual, and it's okay to pick and choose what resonates personally. The goal is to create a space that feels both fresh and authentically 'you.'"
Homeowners keep the following tips in mind while planning a remodeling project:
- Clarify your vision. Create mood boards, use apps like Pinterest, or keep a design journal to collect ideas and inspirations. Use AI design tools (either by yourself or while collaborating with a designer) to preview and finesse your space.
- Set a budget. It helps guide your decisions throughout the process. Always factor in a contingency for unexpected remodeling costs.
- Research current trends: Read interior design magazines, blogs, or watch relevant TV shows or online channels to be updated on the latest design trends.
- Hire an experienced interior designer. Hiring a design firm or expert can save you money in the long run—especially if they use AI design tools. But don't forget: follow your gut. Make sure the designer has good communication skills, provides a detailed scope and contract, and has references you can call on.
- Shop around. Don't rush into buying furnishings or decor. Take the time to shop around, look for sales, discounts, or even second-hand options.
- Choose the right partners. If your project involves structural changes, hire the right professionals. If you’re hiring a general contractor, look for someone who is licensed, insured, and vetted. Paul Dashevsky at GreatBuildz recommends that they have $1 million in liability insurance and an active worker’s compensation policy.
- Incorporate sustainable choices. Sustainability continues to be a significant trend in interior design. Consider eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient kitchen appliances, or designs that have a minimal environmental impact.
- Embrace technology. Smart home systems, design tools, innovative lighting trends, and other tech-driven features are increasingly integral in modern home design.
- Quality over quantity. Instead of buying many items, invest in fewer, high-quality pieces that are durable and timeless.
