Many Michigan homeowners want personal, practical spaces, but outdated layouts and materials often get in the way. Homes today need to keep up with busy families and support the way people actually live.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we help homeowners create spaces that work for them now and in the future. With decades of remodeling experience in Michigan, we know what design choices truly matter.
In this article, we’re breaking down the top eleven home remodeling trends to expect in 2026:
- European Style Interiors
- Multi-Functional Room Design
- Wellness-Focused Home Features
- Accessible Design Features
- Durable, Low-Maintenance Surfaces
- Smart Home Ecosystem Integration
- Texture-Forward Interior Design
- Purpose-Built Outdoor Living Spaces
- Sustainable and Recyclable Materials
- Bigger, More Functional Bathrooms
- Hidden Storage and Minimalist Organization
1. European Style Interiors
PC: One Kindesign
Modern minimalist design has been popular for a long time, but many homeowners now want spaces that feel warmer and more lived-in. European-inspired interiors bring back that sense of character. They mix classic charm with everyday comfort in a way modern design often doesn’t.
This style isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating spaces that feel inviting and unique, encouraging families to enjoy their homes:
- Soft, inviting materials: Antiques, vintage-inspired finishes, and new materials designed to look “lived-in.”
- Warm color palettes: Creams, soft pastels, and earth tones replace stark grays.
- Thoughtful details: Decorative moldings, textured fabrics, and unique lighting create spaces with personality.
- Functional beauty: European style balances charm with usability. This makes spaces both attractive and comfortable.
2. Multi-Functional Room Design
PC: The Spruce
As families’ needs evolve, single-purpose rooms are becoming less practical. Multi-functional design and open-concept floor plans help rooms shift between uses, making better use of every square foot.
In 2026, rooms will serve more than one purpose while still fitting into the rest of the home:
- Flexible spaces: Rooms that serve as a living area by day and a guest bedroom or office by night.
- Privacy options: Pocket doors or partitions allow closed-off spaces when needed.
- Furniture planning: Tables, seating, and storage designed to accommodate many uses.
- Family-focused layouts: Spaces encourage interaction while also allowing individual privacy.
3. Wellness-Focused Home Features
PC: Decorilla
Health-conscious living is influencing remodeling decisions more than ever. Homeowners are thinking about how design affects their health and comfort. This includes air quality and natural light.
Remodels now focus on creating spaces that look good while supporting well-being and everyday comfort:
- Low-VOC paints or limewash: Reduce indoor air pollutants.
- Natural lighting: Skylights, larger windows, and glass doors increase daylight exposure.
- Soothing colors: Light, soft tones replace geometric, modern-saturated palettes.
4. Accessible Design Features
Future-proofing your home improves daily convenience and comfort. Accessible design ensures your home is safer and more adaptable without compromising style.
Homeowners are incorporating subtle accessibility features that enhance functionality for the household:
- Wider doorways: 36 inches or more to accommodate mobility needs.
- Low/curbless showers: Easier access and safer use for all ages.
- Grab bar prep: Blocking installed during remodel for future installation.
- Main-floor convenience: Laundry areas, bathrooms, and storage designed for easy access.
- Long-term usability: Reduces the need for disruptive updates later.
5. Durable, Low-Maintenance Surfaces
Homeowners want beautiful materials that last without demanding constant upkeep. In 2026, homeowners will choose surfaces that are durable, attractive, and easy to maintain.
Countertops, flooring, and cabinets will balance natural beauty with practical maintenance:
- Engineered alternatives:
- Quartz: Offers the look of natural stone with high durability and low upkeep.
- Engineered Stone (Quartzite Blend): Mimics natural stone textures while resisting stains and scratches.
- Solid Surface (e.g., Corian): Seamless, non-porous, and easy to clean, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Recycled Composite Decking (for indoor/outdoor spaces): Made from reclaimed materials, low-maintenance, and long-lasting.
- Durable flooring:
- Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile (LVP/LVT): Water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and available in a variety of wood and stone looks.
- Porcelain Tile: Extremely durable and moisture-resistant, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
- Engineered Hardwood: Provides the beauty of hardwood with more stability and resistance to humidity changes.
- Long-lasting cabinetry:
- Solid Wood Cabinets: Strong, long-lasting, and can be refinished to maintain appearance.
- Plywood Cabinets: Durable and stable, resisting warping better than particleboard.
- MDF Cabinets: Dense, stable, and smooth surface suitable for paint or veneer finishes.
6. Smart Home Ecosystem Integration
Technology integration is becoming a standard expectation (no longer just a luxury). Smart home systems add convenience, safety, and energy efficiency to daily life.
Families are choosing systems that simplify home management and keep everyone safe and connected:
- Thermostats and HVAC control: Adjust temperature for comfort and efficiency from afar.
- Electronic door hardware: Simplifies access and improves safety for kids or pets.
- Integrated security: Cameras, alarms, and notifications to track the home.
- Energy monitoring: Tools to track and reduce household energy use.
7. Texture-Forward Interior Design
PC: The Spruce
Flat surfaces and minimalism are giving way to richer, tactile finishes. Textured design elements make spaces feel warmer and more natural by bringing in patterns and materials from nature.
This trend brings visual depth, warmth, and an organic feel to modern homes:
- Textured walls: Wallpapers, limestone, and plaster for depth and interest.
- Natural woodwork: Millwork and trim that highlight grain and craftsmanship.
- Neutral but layered: Minimal color palettes paired with textural contrasts.
- Connection to nature: Materials and finishes, like shiplap and wood paneling, that feel organic and inviting.
8. Purpose-Built Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor spaces are no longer afterthoughts. They’re extensions of daily living. In 2026, decks, patios, and porches are being designed with specific functions in mind.
These spaces are both beautiful and practical for entertaining, relaxing, and spending time with family:
- Customized layouts: Decks, patios, and porches planned for hosting, relaxing, or family activities.
- Durable materials: Composite decking and railing, PVC, and weather-resistant finishes.
- Integration with home: Seamless flow from indoor to outdoor living.
- Functional amenities: Outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and lighting designed for usability.
9. Sustainable and Recyclable Materials
PC: Mohawk Flooring
Eco-conscious design is becoming more important every year. Homeowners are seeking materials that reduce environmental impact while supporting healthy living.
Sustainable remodeling choices help preserve the planet and create safer, longer-lasting homes:
- Recycled flooring: Carpets and LVT made from repurposed plastics or materials.
- Low-impact finishes: Paints, adhesives, and coatings with minimal environmental footprint.
- Sustainability-focused design: Reduces waste while creating healthy indoor environments.
10. Bigger, More Functional Bathrooms
PC: Veranda
Bathrooms are no longer just utilitarian; they’re personal retreats. Remodels in 2026 focus on maximizing space, comfort, and luxury. Bathrooms are being transformed into areas for relaxation and rejuvenation:
- Expanded layouts: More space for movement, dual sinks, and shower comfort.
- Luxury features: Heated towel bars, free-standing tubs, and bidets.
- Storage integration: Built-in niches, cabinets, and hidden compartments.
- Well-being focus: Space, light, and finishes designed for relaxation.
11. Hidden Storage and Minimalist Organization
Efficient, intentional storage solutions keep homes feeling clean, organized, and uncluttered. Smart planning ensures every square foot is functional and tailored to each family’s needs:
- Under-stair solutions: Maximize often-overlooked spaces.
- Closet planning: Thoughtful layouts to accommodate clothing and seasonal items.
- Multipurpose furniture: Sofas, beds, and tables with integrated storage.
- Customization: Designs tailored to the unique needs of each household.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Home
Living in a home that feels outdated or doesn’t fit your lifestyle can be frustrating. Remodeling is about fixing those pain points while creating spaces that work for how you actually live.
Trends like multifunctional rooms and smart tech help create a home that suits your lifestyle. These updates also add long-lasting value to your home.
At Custom Built, we help Michigan homeowners turn trends into practical, personalized spaces.
Whether updating a kitchen, adding a new space, or remodeling your home, we can help you use 2026 trends to create a home that works for your family.
Now that you know more about home remodeling trends to expect in 2026, let’s explore smart bathroom technology options, deck design ideas, and the best kitchen backsplash selections for the upcoming year:
- 8 Smart Bathroom Technology Trends for 2025: A Thorough Review - Explore the latest smart bathroom innovations that enhance convenience, comfort, and efficiency in your home.
- Michigan Deck Design Trends to Expect in 2025 - Discover the hottest deck styles, materials, and features shaping outdoor living spaces in Michigan next year.
- The Top 5 Kitchen Backsplash Trends for 2025 - See which kitchen backsplash designs will dominate in 2025, combining style, functionality, and personality.
