2026 Home Improvement Trends

*Updated December 9th, 2025

As we step into 2025 (and start looking ahead to 2026), home improvement trends continue to evolve, blending style with functionality to meet the changing needs of the modern homeowner. From sustainable upgrades to smart technology integrations, staying ahead of these home trends can not only enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency but also boost its market value and ROI.

Whether you’re planning a major home renovation or looking for small updates, understanding the latest design trend ideas can help you make informed decisions that align with modern standards and add value to your home.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top home improvement trends for 2025 and the trends to watch as we move into 2026, covering everything from eco-friendly materials to the latest in smart home automation. Whether you’re looking to create a more energy-efficient space, upgrade your interiors, or boost curb appeal, this guide has you covered with practical insights and inspiration.

Home Improvement Trends to Watch in 2025 and 2026

Whether you’re planning a major remodel or looking for simple upgrades, staying informed about the latest home improvement trends can help you make smart choices that enhance your home’s comfort, efficiency, and overall home value. From eco-friendly renovation projects to cutting-edge home technology, let’s explore the key remodeling trends shaping homes in the coming year and the trends to watch in 2026.

1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Home Improvements

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a smart way to improve your home while helping the planet. In 2025, eco-friendly home improvement and home renovation projects are gaining momentum, with homeowners looking to cut down on energy use and reduce their environmental impact.

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Energy-efficient upgrades, like installing solar panels and smart thermostats, are becoming increasingly popular. These home improvement projects not only lower your utility bills but also make your living space more self-sufficient and resilient.

Beyond energy efficiency, many homeowners are opting for sustainable materials such as bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood, and recycled countertops to add a stylish yet eco-conscious touch to their spaces. Water conservation is also a hot topic, with low-flow fixtures and rainwater collection systems helping to reduce water waste and cut monthly bills.

The best part? Many of these renovation upgrades come with tax incentives and rebates, making it easier and more affordable to go green. Whether you’re considering a small change or a major eco-friendly remodeling project, these sustainable improvements are a win-win for your home and the environment and are key home improvement trends to watch for 2026.

2. Smart Home Technology Upgrades

Smart home technology is taking convenience and efficiency to the next level in 2025, making it easier than ever to stay connected and in control of your home. From AI-powered home technology that adjusts lighting, security, and climate control based on your habits to voice assistants that can manage everything with a simple command, these upgrades are designed to simplify daily life.

Imagine walking into a perfectly lit, climate-controlled home without even touching a switch—thanks to smart systems that learn your preferences and adapt accordingly. Plus, with energy-saving features built into many smart devices, you’ll see a noticeable difference in your utility bills over time and improve the return on investment of your home improvement project.

Kitchens and baths are also getting smarter, with appliances that do more than just cook your meals. A kitchen remodel might now include smart refrigerators that track expiration dates and suggest recipes, while energy-efficient dishwashers and ovens can be controlled remotely, helping you manage your home even when you’re on the go.

And when it comes to security, technology is more advanced than ever. Smart locks, facial recognition cameras, and remote monitoring options give homeowners peace of mind by allowing them to keep an eye on things no matter where they are. Whether you’re looking to enhance comfort, improve security, or save on energy costs, smart home improvement trends are making it easier—and more exciting—than ever to upgrade your space.

3. Multi-Functional Spaces and Flex Rooms

In 2025, home remodeling is all about versatility, with multi-functional spaces and flex rooms taking center stage. As remote work and hybrid lifestyles continue to shape the way we live, homeowners are getting creative with their living areas to accommodate work, play, and relaxation all in one.

Guest rooms are being transformed into home offices during the day and cozy retreats at night, while fitness enthusiasts are turning spare spaces into home gyms. The beauty of flex rooms is their adaptability—whether you need a quiet place to focus, a spot to unwind, or an area to stay active, these spaces can easily evolve with your lifestyle.

To make the most of every square foot, space-saving solutions like foldable furniture, modular shelving, and built-ins are becoming popular choices. These clever designs allow rooms to serve multiple purposes without feeling cluttered or cramped.

And it’s not just about the indoors—outdoor living spaces are being reimagined as true extensions of the home. From covered patios that double as dining areas to backyard lounges equipped with cozy seating and fire pits, outdoor living lets you make your home feel larger and more functional. Whether inside or out, multi-functional spaces are a key home remodeling trend that will continue into 2026.

4. Wellness-Centered Home Designs

In 2025, home design is putting a bigger focus on wellness-centered spaces that promote relaxation, health, and overall well-being. With air quality being a top concern, air purification systems and improved ventilation are becoming must-haves, helping to remove allergens, pollutants, and even airborne viruses. Fresh, clean air can make a huge difference in how you feel at home, and many people are investing in smart air purifiers and HVAC systems that monitor and adjust air quality automatically.

Another major home design trend is biophilic design—bringing nature indoors by incorporating elements like houseplants, natural wood, and earthy color palettes. This approach not only creates a calming atmosphere but also boosts mental well-being and productivity.

Spa-like bathrooms are also on the rise, with spa-like details such as smart showers, heated floors, and ambient lighting. These upgrades turn the bathroom into a personal retreat, a popular home improvement choice for those who want a dream home feel without moving.

And let’s not forget about comfort—furniture and layouts are being thoughtfully designed to support better posture and reduce strain, making everyday living more comfortable and stress-free. Whether it’s through better air, soothing spaces, or smarter design, wellness-focused home renovation is a clear trend to watch going into 2026.

5. Exterior Trends

Homeowners are taking curb appeal to the next level with bold, modern updates that make a statement. Fresh siding options in eye-catching colors, updated landscaping designs, and stylish front doors are all trending as people look to boost their home’s exterior charm.

Whether it’s adding a pop of color with a trendy navy or deep green hue or going for sleek, minimalist landscaping with native plants and clean lines, the goal is to create an inviting and visually appealing first impression. These home improvement projects not only make your home stand out but can also increase its resale value.

Low-maintenance materials are also gaining popularity, making it easier than ever to keep your home’s exterior looking great with minimal effort. Durable options like fiber cement siding and composite decking offer long-lasting beauty without the constant upkeep of traditional wood.

Don’t forget small but impactful upgrades like a new garage door. Replacing an older garage door is a classic home improvement with strong return on investment, consistently ranking high for home value.

In addition, smart outdoor lighting and irrigation systems are making life more convenient, allowing homeowners to control their exterior ambiance and water usage with the touch of a button. For those who love entertaining, outdoor living areas are becoming full-fledged extensions of the home. Whether you’re looking for practical upgrades or stylish enhancements, 2025 and 2026 exterior remodeling trends offer something for every type of home.

6. Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

Kitchen and bathroom renovations are all about blending style with functionality, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical and sustainable. In many home remodeling projects, the kitchen remains the heart of the home, and a well-planned kitchen remodel is still one of the best ways to add value to your home.

Kitchens and baths are seeing a major shift toward open shelving, mixed textures, and bold backsplashes that add personality without feeling overwhelming. Whether it’s a statement tile that pops or a combination of wood and metal finishes for modern aesthetics, homeowners are embracing designs that reflect their unique style.

Sustainability is also a key focus in these bathroom and kitchen projects, with eco-friendly cabinetry and cabinetry finishes, as well as countertop materials—like reclaimed wood and recycled quartz—becoming popular choices.

Spa-like bathrooms are turning into personal retreats with freestanding tubs, heated floors, updated faucet options, and digital showers that allow you to customize water temperature and pressure with a touch of a button. These home improvement trends in kitchen and bathroom renovation consistently offer strong ROI and better market value, making them top renovation projects heading into 2026.

7. Home Energy Efficiency Improvements

Homeowners are focusing more than ever on making their homes energy-efficient, not just to save money but also to reduce their environmental impact. One of the biggest home improvement trends is upgrading to smart windows and better insulation, which help keep homes comfortable year-round by reducing heat loss in the winter and keeping things cool in the summer.

These improvements make it easier to maintain the perfect indoor temperature without overworking your HVAC system—leading to lower energy bills and a greener home. Speaking of HVAC, energy-efficient systems paired with smart thermostats are becoming a go-to solution for homeowners looking to take control of their energy use.

Lighting is also getting a major upgrade with LED bulbs and solar-powered exterior lights, which not only cut down on electricity costs but also last much longer than traditional options.

Homeowners are also turning to whole-home energy monitoring systems that provide real-time insights into energy consumption, helping them identify where they can cut back and improve the ROI of their home improvement spending. These upgrades are among the most practical ways to make your home more sustainable heading into 2026.

8. DIY Trends

DIY home improvement is bigger than ever, with homeowners rolling up their sleeves to tackle projects that add value and personality to their spaces—without breaking the bank. From trendy accent walls with peel-and-stick wallpaper to budget-friendly coat of paint makeovers, people are finding creative ways to refresh their homes on their own terms.

Outdoor upgrades, like building raised garden beds or adding string lights to outdoor living spaces, are also popular as more homeowners look to enhance their living areas and curb appeal. Many of these DIY home improvement projects don’t require a big budget, just a bit of time, patience, and the right tools.

However, it’s important to know when to take the DIY route and when to call in the pros. While painting a room or installing new shelving is doable for most, tasks like electrical work, major plumbing, or significant roof repairs should be left to professionals to protect your safety and your home’s resale value. The key is finding the right balance—DIY for the fun and manageable projects, and expert help for the trickier ones.

9. Aging in Place

Aging in place upgrades are becoming a top priority for baby boomers and other homeowners looking to create a safe and comfortable environment that allows them to stay in their homes longer. One of the most popular upgrades is installing walk-in tubs and grab bars in bathrooms, making daily routines safer and more accessible.

Along with bathroom upgrades, smart lighting solutions are also gaining popularity. Motion-activated and voice-controlled lights make it easier to navigate through the home at night, reducing the risk of accidents and making everyday tasks more convenient.

Beyond the bathroom and lighting, home renovation for aging in place includes flooring and layout adjustments. Non-slip flooring options, such as textured vinyl or slip-resistant tiles, help minimize fall risks, while widened doorways provide easier access for wheelchairs and walkers.

Home automation is also playing a big role, with smart home technology helping to enhance mobility and safety. From voice-controlled assistants that manage appliances to automated security systems that provide real-time alerts, technology is making it easier than ever for seniors to maintain their independence. These remodeling trends are among the most impactful ways to add value to your home over the long term.

10. Color and Design Trends

In 2025, color and interior design trends are all about making bold yet harmonious statements that reflect personality and style. Home design trends are leaning into nature-inspired hues like deep forest greens, earthy terracottas, and soothing ocean blues to bring a sense of calm and connection to the outdoors.

These rich, grounding colors are showing up in everything from accent walls to cabinetry in the kitchen, offering a fresh alternative to the neutrals that dominated 2023 and 2024. On the exterior, bold front doors and colorful siding choices are becoming a popular way to enhance curb appeal and make a statement before you even step inside.

Mixing modern and vintage aesthetics is also having a major moment, as homeowners blend sleek, contemporary designs with nostalgic elements that add warmth and character. Think mid-century modern furniture paired with textured wallpaper or antique brass fixtures complementing minimalist interiors.

Whether it’s incorporating bold color choices, experimenting with unique textures, or mixing old and new styles, these home design choices are some of the most exciting trends for 2025 and will continue as key home improvement trends to watch in 2026.

11. Sustainable Landscaping

Sustainable landscaping is all about creating beautiful outdoor living spaces that are both eco-friendly and easy to maintain. Homeowners are increasingly turning to native and drought-tolerant plants that thrive in their local climate without requiring excessive water or upkeep.

Edible gardens and urban farming are also gaining popularity, with people growing their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs right in their backyards. Whether it’s a small raised bed or a full-fledged garden, these home improvement choices support a more sustainable lifestyle.

For those looking to cut down on yard maintenance without sacrificing aesthetics, artificial turf and xeriscaping are becoming go-to solutions. Smart irrigation systems are another game-changer, helping homeowners conserve water by adjusting watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

These outdoor-focused renovation projects are a great way to make your home more enjoyable year-round while also improving home value and aligning with broader home improvement market trends.

Final Thoughts

As we look ahead to 2025 and into 2026, home improvement trends are all about creating spaces that are stylish, functional, and sustainable. From energy-efficient upgrades and smart home technology to wellness-focused designs and eco-friendly landscaping, there are plenty of exciting ways to enhance your home and make it work better for your lifestyle.

Investing in the right home improvement or home remodeling projects can make a huge difference—not just in how your home looks, but in how it feels and functions every day. Whether it’s upgrading kitchens and baths, adding a home gym, refreshing your exterior with a new garage door, or improving energy efficiency, the key is to choose projects that align with your goals and offer solid return on investment.

So, take some time to explore your options, prioritize what matters most, and get ready to transform your home into a space you truly love—with home improvement trends to watch that will carry you well beyond 2025 and into 2026.