We know home trends are constantly coming and going, but if you ask us, the trends that have been popping here lately feel like they’re going to stick. One thing we’ve noticed with home trends nowadays—whether your focusing on the interior or exterior—is that they feel more intentional, simple, and elevated. If it’s been a while since your home has gotten a makeover, you might be looking for ways to spruce the place up next year. Look no further than these ideas. Here are the seven expected top home renovation projects for 2026, according to realtors and interior designers.
Meet the Experts
Christopher Boutlier is an interior designer at Christopher Boutlier Interiors in Washington, DC
Jim Bailey is a realtor with BBRE Group
Jules Garcia is a real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Warburg
Rick Tyberg is a realtor with Douglas Elliman
Elevated Closets
You might’ve updated your primary closet this year or sometime here recently, but Tyberg says homes in 2026 are seeing this upgrade across the whole house. “Homeowners are realizing how transformative well-designed storage can be,” he says. “It immediately improves daily function, enhances organization, and adds a sense of luxury that you feel every time you open the door.”
Closed Cabinetry
If you like open shelving, then feel free to keep. It is perfect for decor displays or arranging kitchen essentials in a functional, stylish way. But they’ve been going out of style for a few years now and next year are going to be gone completely. Instead, we’re saying hello to gorgeous closed cabinetry. “Open shelving is a nice idea, but when thinking practically most owners realize that it’s more of a pain because they have to constantly worry about it looking organized and they reduce their usable cupboard space,” says Garcia.
Sophisticated Outdoor Kitchens
Southerners love to entertain, and when the weather warms up, our backyards see a lot of gatherings. Outdoor kitchens, according to our pros, are a hardscape ideas that’s now becoming more of a “must have” instead of a luxury. Tyberg says, “An outdoor kitchen not only maximizes how you enjoy your home, but it also boosts property value and extends your living space in a beautiful, usable way.”
Timeless Color Schemes
I don’t think timeless colors will every truly go out of style. Light neutrals and some darker shades are perfect for adding Southern charm or airiness to a room. If you’re thinking of repainting your walls, Garcia says richer tones and hues are being invited into homes more and more. “I am still seeing those that want to be bolder and lean towards the greens/teals, taupes, and most recently the tobacco browns,” she says. Basically, think of any color that can be found in nature and you’ve found the perfect home for your new year renovation project.
Light Quartz Countertops
I love the renovations I see that are swapping dark, outdated granite countertops with fresher, lighter quartz. Bailey says this is something he’s seeing more of too in the kitchen, which helps to create a luxurious, modern space that feels elegant. What’s even better is that this material comes with a highly attractive look that’s low in maintenance. Compared to granite, it’s non-porous which makes it very durable.
Craftsmanship Materials
One renovation Southerners will appreciate is the big focus on craftsmanship materials. We’re finally shying away from the “showy houses” and choosing a look that’s lived-in, cozy, and homey. “There’s a growing appreciation for craftsmanship and honest materials,” says Boutlier. “Natural wood, detailed millwork, and finishes that age with the home are becoming priorities. These choices reflect a desire for comfort and authenticity rather than showiness.”
Smart Tech Upgrades
If you haven’t upgraded your home’s technology with some kind of smart product, let 2026 be the year that changes. Garcia says, while smart technology has been a top home improvement idea for several years now, it’s going to remain a top trend in the new year. “I still get a lot of questions about how to introduce or improve on smart home functionality,” she says. “A lot less about hidden speakers and more about avoiding the popular tech term of planned obsolescence. Programmable/smart lighting is a must. It helps to easily change the mood of the space.”
Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living