10 Renovation Trends Likely to Keep Growing in 2026

January 3, 2026

Renovation momentum is still strong heading into 2026. Homeowners are continuing to invest in the spaces they use every day — and they’re getting more strategic about what they remodel (and why). According to Houzz research, most homeowners planning renovations in 2026 expect to move forward and many plan to work with professionals for the job — especially on larger projects.

At Modern Living Real Property, we love watching these shifts play out in real homes — because trends aren’t just “style.” They’re signals of what buyers value, what homeowners need, and what helps a property feel elevated, functional, and future-ready.

Below are 10 renovation trends we expect to keep growing through 2026 — plus what they look like in real remodel decisions.

1) Storage-forward kitchens (walk-ins, appliance garages, and “everything has a place”)

Kitchen remodels are leaning hard into functional storage — not just more cabinets, but smarter ones. Think deep drawer systems, pull-outs, concealed trash/recycling, and dedicated zones that reduce countertop clutter. Butler’s pantries and upgraded pantries continue to grow because they keep the main kitchen clean while still being highly usable.

What homeowners are remodeling: pantries, cabinet interiors, island storage, built-in organizers
Why it’s growing: daily livability + cleaner-looking spaces + better resale photos
Where to source: Blum (drawer hardware), Rev-A-Shelf (pull-outs), Rockler (organization + woodworking supplies)

2) Warm woods and “natural” finishes replacing ultra-white everything

The all-white era is cooling off as homeowners move toward warmer woods, softer neutrals, and finishes that feel less sterile. This doesn’t mean dark and heavy — it’s more about organic texture, visual depth, and materials that age well.

What homeowners are remodeling: kitchen cabinets, flooring, stair rails, interior doors, built-ins
Why it’s growing: warmth + character sells (and it photographs better than flat white)
Where to source: Floor & Decor, The Home Depot, Lowe’s

3) Statement backsplashes and “one-slab” moments

Full-height backsplashes, slab-style surfaces, and bolder stone choices are continuing to climb. Homeowners want one strong visual anchor that makes the kitchen feel designed — without needing a ton of extra decor.

What homeowners are remodeling: backsplashes, countertops, waterfall islands, range walls
Why it’s growing: high-impact upgrade that instantly modernizes a home
Where to source: TileBar, MSI Surfaces, Cosentino

4) Spa-inspired bathrooms (and better showers)

Bathrooms are increasingly treated like wellness spaces: calmer lighting, upgraded ventilation, better storage, and showers that feel intentional — not basic. “Spa-inspired” bathrooms are also showing up more often as a selling point in listings.

What homeowners are remodeling: showers, lighting, vanities/storage, heated floors, ventilation
Why it’s growing: daily comfort + strong resale appeal
Smart efficiency add-on: choose fixtures with the EPA WaterSense label
Where to source: Build.com, Ferguson, Kohler

5) Health-first upgrades (indoor air quality, low-VOC, and cleaner materials)

Expect more renovation decisions to be driven by how a home feels, not just how it looks. Indoor air quality, low-odor materials, and better ventilation matter more than ever — especially in tight, renovated homes.

What homeowners are remodeling: ventilation, range hoods, HVAC filtration, paint + finishes
Why it’s growing: comfort, allergies, smoke/air concerns, and “healthy home” awareness
Helpful guidance: EPA’s overview of improving indoor air quality
Where to source: Benjamin Moore (low-VOC options), Sherwin-Williams

6) Electrification and efficiency (heat pumps, induction, insulation, panel upgrades)

Energy-smart renovations are becoming mainstream: heat pumps, induction cooking, improved insulation, better windows, and smarter controls. Some homeowners also plan for EV charging and battery storage as part of a long-term “future-proof” strategy.

What homeowners are remodeling: HVAC systems, electrical panels, kitchens (appliances), attic insulation
Why it’s growing: comfort + long-term operating cost savings + resiliency
Where to learn more: ENERGY STAR heat pump basics

7) Outdoor living that functions like a real room

Outdoor upgrades keep ranking high because they change how a home lives — especially in climates like Los Angeles where outdoor space can be used year-round. Covered patios, lighting, fans/heaters, outdoor kitchens, and durable finishes are all continuing to grow.

What homeowners are remodeling: patios, pergolas, doors/thresholds, outdoor lighting, landscaping
Why it’s growing: lifestyle value + entertaining + more usable square footage (without an addition)
Where to source: Trex (composite materials), tool rental options for weekend upgrades

8) Resilience upgrades (wildfire hardening, leak prevention, backup power readiness)

More homeowners are renovating with resilience in mind — especially where insurance, climate risk, or power outages are a concern. In Southern California, defensible space and home hardening details are becoming a bigger part of “smart remodeling.”

What homeowners are remodeling: gutters/guards, vents, landscaping near the home, roofing choices, smart leak detection
Why it’s growing: safety + fewer surprises + stronger long-term property protection
Helpful guidance: CAL FIRE defensible space and Ready for Wildfire home hardening

9) Flexible rooms (work, wellness, and hobby spaces)

Instead of dedicating a room to one purpose, 2026 remodels lean toward flex spaces: office + guest, gym + storage, reading nook + built-in shelving, or a den that can shift with life stages. Zillow trend data points to growing interest in “at-home escapes” like reading nooks and wellness zones.

What homeowners are remodeling: spare bedrooms, garages (as usable flex), dens, under-stair spaces
Why it’s growing: people want homes that adapt without requiring a move
Trend context: Zillow’s 2026 home trends

10) Personalized design (color drenching, artisan touches, and “not builder-basic” details)

Personalization is growing — not just bold paint, but details that make a home feel intentional: upgraded trim, vintage-inspired hardware, textured walls, curated lighting, and built-ins that look custom. Zillow specifically calls out growth in “color drenching” as a trend heading into 2026.

What homeowners are remodeling: paint, trim, lighting, door hardware, built-ins, feature walls
Why it’s growing: personality sells — and small details can change the whole feel of a home
Where to source: Rejuvenation (hardware/lighting), Habitat ReStores (salvage + restoration finds)

Want help deciding what’s worth remodeling for your property?

If you’re renovating to improve daily living, prepare for resale, or transform a neglected home into something buyers actually want, we can help you prioritize the upgrades that matter most.

Explore recent transformations in our Properties portfolio, or browse renovation planning tips in Helpful Tips. When you’re ready, reach out here: Contact Modern Living Real Property.