Home renovation trends that will define 2026

Dark wood, New Deco details, and hidden spaces are set to define home renovations in 2026. Homeowners are increasingly prioritising character, craftsmanship, and comfort, investing in thoughtful, long-lasting updates that add depth and personality.

New Deco continues to gain momentum, blending bold geometry, curves, and fluted details with marble, lacquered finishes, and metallic accents such as brass, gold, and chrome.

Dark wood is also making a confident return, with rich walnut, mahogany, and chocolate tones replacing pale, Scandi-style finishes. These deeper hues bring warmth and a sense of heritage, reimagined for modern living. Introduce them through doors, joinery, or flooring, and balance with lighter surfaces, stone textures, or subtle metallics to keep spaces feeling contemporary. In smaller rooms, limit bold elements to one or two features.

Hidden storage and seamless spaces are becoming essential, with concealed pantries, cupboards, coffee stations, and bars helping interiors feel calm and uncluttered. Flexible layouts that shift between open and closed are especially valuable in compact homes, offering functionality without visual noise. Planning these features early with a professional helps ensure they integrate smoothly and avoids costly changes later.

Wooden ceilings are also gaining popularity, from exposed beams to timber panelling and cladding. They add warmth, architectural interest, and can improve insulation while drawing the eye upward to make rooms feel more spacious—particularly effective in spaces with unusual rooflines.

Finally, zoned outdoor spaces are transforming gardens into everyday living areas. Subtle dividers such as hedges, planters, trellises, and pathways define areas for dining, lounging, or gardening while maintaining flow. Clear zoning adds a sense of discovery and makes even small outdoor spaces feel larger and more intentional.