The 10 Trends We'll See in 2026

The biggest trend is not one trend at all. It’s homeowners choosing what makes them happy.

If you’ve been hearing a lot of “What’s in for 2026?” you’re not alone. Trend forecasts are fun, but the showroom tells the truth. Here’s what people are choosing right now.

The biggest trend for 2026 is not one trend at all. It’s homeowners choosing what makes them happy. More people are designing their homes around comfort, warmth, and personal style instead of trying to follow a one-size-fits-all look. They want a home that feels cozy, specific, and emotionally right, even if it’s not the “safe resale” option. A lot of these design directions started last year. What’s changed is the mindset behind them. These choices are evolving from “I saw it online” to “This feels like us.” Below, we’re breaking down what we’re seeing most across flooring, tile, countertops, carpet, and cabinetry. We also split it into what’s accelerating now versus what’s still going strong from last year.

New for 2026 (the looks homeowners are leaning into)

1. Matte and low-sheen finishes: Matte is everywhere, and for good reason. A low-sheen finish looks more natural and lived-in, which makes spaces feel warmer and less “showroom perfect.” It also helps hide everyday scuffs, dust, and the little signs of real life that happen when a home is actually enjoyed. You’ll see this across wood visuals, tile finishes, cabinetry finishes, and even some countertop looks.

2. Seamless slab backsplash looks rising: One of the clearest 2026 signals is the seamless backsplash. That means running countertop material up the wall instead of switching to a separate tile backsplash. The result is a clean, elevated custom feel that instantly makes a kitchen look more intentional. It also simplifies the visual story. Fewer transitions. Fewer competing materials. A calmer, more modern finish.

3. Elevated carpet texture is back: Carpet is making a comeback in spaces where comfort matters most. Bedrooms, stairs, bonus rooms, and upstairs areas are seeing more texture-forward choices that add softness and depth. This is not the flat carpet look people associate with the past. Today’s carpet texture feels more layered, more intentional, and more design-forward, while still being cozy underfoot.

   
   

4. Warm, creamy checkered tile: The checkerboard is back, but it’s evolving. Instead of high-contrast black and white, we’re seeing warmer, creamier palettes that feel classic and elevated. It reads as timeless pattern with a softer edge, and it pairs beautifully with warm wood tones and natural stone looks.

   
   

5. Brighter, bolder tile colors and patterns: Another big shift for 2026 is homeowners saying yes to color. Bright, bold tile choices are showing up as happy moments in the home. These are often used in spaces that don’t need to match the whole house, like powder baths and laundry rooms. It’s a fun way to add personality without committing every surface to a bold look.

6. Cabinetry that’s personal: This is one of the biggest mindset shifts we’re seeing. Homeowners are choosing cabinetry colors and finishes they love, not just what they think will sell later. That might mean bolder cabinet colors, mixed finishes, unique stains, or something that simply feels different from the “default” kitchen. The priority is emotional connection and daily enjoyment.

Rollover from last year (still going strong, just evolving)

7. Warm wood tones replacing cool gray: The shift away from cool gray is sticking. Warm wood tones make spaces feel instantly more inviting, more comfortable, and more timeless. We’re seeing warmth show up across everything, from flooring and cabinetry to tile palettes and countertop selections. It’s one of those trends that feels less like a trend and more like a return to comfort.

8. Wood cabinetry returning, especially white oak: Wood cabinetry continues to grow, and white oak remains a standout. It has a grounded, timeless look that fits into so many styles, from modern organic to transitional to classic. White oak also pairs well with both subtle palettes and bolder tile choices, which makes it the perfect anchor material for the personality-led direction of 2026.

9. Zellige on walls everywhere: Zellige is still having a major moment, especially on walls. Its handmade variation adds movement, warmth, and that soft glow in the light that makes a space feel more textured and alive. Even when homeowners choose neutral colors, zellige adds personality through surface variation. It’s a great example of the 2026 vibe. Tactile, warm, and not overly polished.

10. Large-format tile like 24x48: Large-format tile continues to rise because it creates calmer visuals and fewer grout lines. That means a cleaner finish and easier upkeep. It’s popular in bathrooms, showers, and modern kitchens, and it works especially well when homeowners want a space to feel open, streamlined, and elevated.

The takeaway

The vibe: comfort-forward, personality-led, warm, and tactile. Homeowners are less focused on chasing a trend and more focused on creating a home that feels like them. Warm tones, tactile finishes, cozy materials, and personal choices are leading the way. The goal is not a perfect showroom look. The goal is a home that feels good to live in. Less “what’s trending?” and more “what feels like us?”

Want to see these looks in person?

If you’re planning a remodel, building a new home, or just collecting ideas, seeing materials in person makes a huge difference. Warm tones, textures, and finishes can look very different in real life than they do online. Visit your nearest showroom and we’ll help you compare options side by side.