2026 Trend Forecasts in Home Design
Designing for Comfort, Clarity and Connection
As we look ahead to 2026, home design continues to move toward spaces that feel calm, connected and deeply personal. For many homeowners, the goal is no longer about keeping up with trends, but creating a home that supports the way they live, with comfort, function and a sense of ease. At Reliance, we see these ideas emerging across our consultations and design development work, shaping the way we guide clients through each project.
1. Softer Modern Lines
Modern design isn’t going away, but it is warming up. Clean lines are paired with rounded edges, natural textures and subtle curves that soften the look and feel of a space. This approach helps create rooms that feel modern yet comfortable, a balance many families are seeking in their daily lives.
2. Natural Materials and Organic Palettes
Wood, stone, clay finishes and muted earthy tones continue to rise in popularity. These materials ground a home and bring a sense of calm into everyday spaces. We often see clients gravitate toward oak, limewash, textured tile and warm neutral palettes that make rooms feel both fresh and timeless.
3. More Purposeful Space Planning
Homeowners are prioritizing layouts that truly support their routines, whether that means multigenerational living, work-from-home needs or carving out quiet spaces for rest. At Reliance, a large part of our design development focuses on rethinking flow, functionality and adjacencies so every square foot has intention.
4. Light-Driven Design
Natural light has become one of the most requested design elements. In 2026, we expect to see more skylights, clerestory windows and large glass openings that connect the interior to the outdoors. Light not only enhances aesthetics; it improves how a home feels throughout the day.
5. Kitchen and Bath Personalization
Kitchens and bathrooms continue to evolve into highly customized spaces. Clients are choosing unique combinations of finishes, open shelving, integrated storage and thoughtful lighting layers to build rooms that feel both beautiful and tailored to the way they live. Subtle luxury, not flashy design, leads the way.
6. Spaces That Support Well-Being
From calming primary suites to spa-inspired bathrooms, wellness remains a major driver of design decisions. Homeowners are opting for soothing colors, tactile materials and layouts that promote ease and relaxation. These spaces often become the emotional anchor of the home.
7. Outdoor Living as an Extension of the Home
Outdoor areas continue to be treated as true living rooms, not add-ons. Warm exterior materials, covered patios, landscape lighting and thoughtful furniture layouts help create year-round spaces for gathering, dining and unwinding, something we see across many of our projects in Los Angeles.
Looking Ahead
Design in 2026 is all about balance: modern but warm, functional yet personal, refined but comfortable. These trends reflect what we value most at Reliance, thoughtful design, intentional planning and homes that truly support the people who live in them. As we continue guiding clients through our consult–design–build process, these ideas will shape the spaces we create in the coming year.