2026 Home Design Trends: Thoughtful, Grounded, and Beautifully Livable

As we look ahead to 2026, home design is moving beyond surface-level style and into something deeper: spaces that feel grounding, personal, and intentionally crafted. In a world shaped by rapid technological change, homeowners are craving homes that restore, inspire, and support the way they truly live—whether that means hosting family, retreating into quiet moments, or investing in long-term comfort and wellness.

At Neil Kelly, we see design trends not as fleeting moments, but as signals of how people want to feel in their homes. Our remodeling experts across the Pacific Northwest are helping clients translate these ideas into timeless, highly functional spaces—thoughtfully designed and expertly built. Here are the home design trends shaping 2026.

Trend #1: Return to Earth

As technology and AI accelerate, the desire for the grounding presence of nature continues to grow. Natural materials are taking center stage in refined, architectural ways—think stone, wood, and organic textures used with intention and restraint. Homeowners are craving authenticity and a stronger connection to the natural world.

“We are seeing a movement away from man-made, fabricated materials and a return to natural, organic materials especially in wood flooring and paneling,” shares Mary Miksch, Design Director for Neil Kelly. “No one does wood products better than the Pacific Northwest.”

Trend #2: Statement Wallpaper & Pattern Play

“Wallpaper is becoming an architectural detail, not an afterthought,” shares Selah Ewert, General Manager of Neil Kelly Bend. “Botanical prints, moody landscapes, textured papers, and mural-style art add personality and depth to any room.”

Pattern play extends beyond wallpaper to checkerboard floors, graphic tile layouts, block prints, and bold applications in entryways, laundry rooms, and powder baths. And in 2026, the ceiling officially earns its reputation as the “fifth wall,” becoming another opportunity for expression.

Trend #3: Warm Color Hues & Blues

“We are seeing warm, brown and jewel tone colors trending while the grey and whites seem to be on their way out,” shares Matt White, general manager for Neil Kelly Eugene/Springfield. “There is a shift from the big splashes of white in kitchen cabinets and tile, as homeowners lean into the darker and warmer hues.”

Expect to see deep purples, cabernet reds, dark natural greens, and teal-blue peacock tones—colors that add depth, warmth, and sophistication.

Trend #4: Crafted with Intention

In an increasingly digital and AI-driven world, people crave craftsmanship and attention to detail. “More of our clients seek hand-crafted custom pieces and design elements that bring meaning and artistry into everyday spaces,” shares Amanda Armstrong Sava, general manager Neil Kelly Seattle.

“Whether handrails, millwork, cabinetry or custom tilework, hand-crafted pieces offer storytelling opportunities and real-life connections.” These details are often best achieved through custom remodeling, where design and construction work together to create spaces that feel truly one-of-a-kind.

Trend #5: The New Metallics

Metal finishes are warming up. Champagne bronze, brushed brass, warm nickel, and thoughtfully mixed metals are taking the place of perfectly matched sets. The key is harmony in tone and temperature, with champagne bronze often taking the lead.

Chrome is also making a comeback as an accent—especially when paired with darker, richer materials like deep-toned cabinetry or velvet upholstery.

Trend #6: Vintage Meets Modern

This design style honors history while reinterpreting classic motifs for modern living. Through remodeling, homeowners are blending heirloom silhouettes, classic patterns, and expressive details with modern layouts, updated materials, and simplified styling.

This trend is especially well-suited to older homes, where thoughtful renovation can preserve architectural character (Colonial, Victorian, Craftsman, Mid Century, etc.) while making the home more functional for today’s lifestyles.

Trend #7: Mood-Boosting Design

The emotional quality of a space is as important as its aesthetics. Designers and homeowners alike are prioritizing warmth, joy, and personal connection, with homes designed to feel restorative and welcoming.

Remodeling projects increasingly consider color psychology, lighter palettes in high-traffic areas, and immersive deeper tones in bedrooms and lounges. Scent, sound, and tactile materials are becoming part of whole-home design planning, along with curated areas for entertaining—such as coffee stations and beverage bars.

Trend #8: Staying Ahead of the Curve

Soft, flowing curves continue to replace straight lines and hard edges. Curves, circles, and sculptural shapes will appear in everything from architecture to furniture. These forms add movement, warmth, and a sense of ease. We expect to hear more remodeling requests for curves in showers, arched openings, barrel vaulted ceilings, round countertops and fluted moldings.

Trend #9: Designing for Health & Wellness

Neil Kelly Eugene General Manager, Matt White, predicts an uptick in requests for home designs that uphold health and wellness. “More clients are asking our team to design and build sauna rooms, steam showers and home gyms,” shares White.

“With infrared saunas and cold plunges trending, clients are prioritizing spaces that support daily self-care and long-term wellness in the comfort of their home.” These features are often integrated through thoughtful home remodeling that considers both physical health and long-term livability.

Bringing 2026 Design Trends Home

Design trends may spark inspiration, but it’s the remodeling process that turns ideas into lasting results. At Neil Kelly, we guide homeowners through every step—from initial vision and design to construction and finishing details—so the experience feels as comfortable and well-crafted as the home itself.

Whether you’re planning a whole-home remodel, updating a kitchen or bathroom, or reimagining how your home supports wellness and everyday living, our team is here to take care of everything. When you’re ready to transform your home with intention, craftsmanship, and care, we’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Schedule your complementary consultation with a Neil Kelly Design Consultant today.