Home design in 2026 is evolving in a quieter, more intentional way. Instead of chasing bold, short-lived trends, homeowners are focusing on updates that feel warm, personal, and practical; choices that look beautiful today and still feel right years from now.
There’s also a noticeable mindset shift happening. Rising material costs, higher interest rates, and longer homeowner tenures mean people are thinking more carefully about what they upgrade and why. Rather than remodeling for resale alone, many homeowners are investing in comfort, durability, and long-term performance.
That’s why many of the most influential 2026 design trends center around paint, windows, doors, garage doors, and glass. These upgrades have a powerful visual impact, improve energy efficiency, and often deliver a strong return without requiring a full-scale remodel.
Below, we explore the design trends shaping homes in 2026, followed by the home improvements contractors expect homeowners to prioritize most and how to decide where to start.
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Why 2026 Home Design Trends Are More Practical Than Ever
Unlike trend cycles of the past, 2026 design decisions are now being shaped as much by economics and lifestyle as by aesthetics. Homeowners are staying put longer, meaning upgrades need to last. At the same time, energy costs and maintenance concerns are pushing people toward smarter materials and professional installation.
Another factor driving these trends is flexibility. Homes are expected to support multiple uses, like work, rest, entertaining, and storage, often within the same footprint. Design choices that improve light, flow, insulation, and durability are no longer “nice to have;” they’re becoming essential.
The result is a design landscape where beauty and function are deeply connected. Paint colors are warmer and more forgiving. Windows and doors are expected to perform in extreme temperatures. Bathroom glass is chosen not just for style, but for ease of cleaning and privacy. These trends aren’t about novelty, they’re about longevity.
Interior & Exterior Paint Trends for 2026
Ask a designer and they will tell you that paint is the fastest, easiest, and least expensive way to update the look and feel of a room. Instead of updating furniture every time you need a fresh look, we recommend using neutral furniture in a room, then updating the vibe or personality of the room with paint colors, throw pillows, and decor! Just these few tweaks can completely transform a room without the time and expense of a full room redo.
Learn more about this strategy with Mikelle Despain of Jones Paint & Glass, Heather Osmond and Jeff Caplan on the KSL Real Estate podcast, “Throw Pillows, Paint and Glass, Oh My!“
Interior Paint: Warm, Layered, and Comfortable
The cool gray era has officially faded. In 2026, interior paint trends are moving toward warmth and depth, with colors that feel grounding and lived-in rather than stark or trendy.
Homeowners are embracing:
- Rich neutrals like deep cocoa, pale mushroom, sandy camel, and warm taupe
- Nature-inspired greens like gentle sage, deep forest green, subtle sea salt, shadowy gray-green, and royal emerald
- Muted blues such as smoky blue, modern slate blue, airy light blue, calming sea blue-green, and pale dewy blues
These shades create a sense of calm and pair beautifully with wood tones, stone, and layered textiles. They also tend to age better than cooler tones, which can feel dated more quickly.
Another trend gaining traction is tonal layering. Instead of high-contrast white trim against darker walls, homeowners are choosing trim and ceilings in softer, related shades. This creates a more cohesive, designer-forward look that still feels approachable.
→ Quick Tip:
Paint sheen matters just as much as color. Higher-traffic areas often benefit from durable finishes that are easier to clean without looking shiny.
For best results, especially in open floor plans or homes with varied lighting, professional color guidance and application make a noticeable difference.
Exterior Paint: Softer Neutrals with Intentional Contrast
Exterior paint trends for 2026 are moving away from bright, stark whites and toward softer, sun-warmed neutrals. Creamy off-whites, beiges, and greige tones are becoming go-to choices because they complement natural materials and hide dust and wear more effectively.
Contrast still plays a role, but in a more refined way. Trim, doors, shutters, and accents are often finished in warm black, charcoal, bronze, or muted green. These details add depth without overwhelming the home’s architecture.
→ Consider This:
Exterior paint impacts more than curb appeal. It influences heat absorption, maintenance cycles, and how well your home blends with its surroundings.
Home by S&S Homes, Windows & Multi-Slide Doors by Jones Paint & Glass, Trystan Guard Photography
Window Trends for 2026
Windows remain one of the most impactful design and performance upgrades homeowners can make. Visually, clean lines, slim frames, and larger panes continue to dominate. Functionally, expectations are higher than ever.
While vinyl windows remain popular for their value, more homeowners are considering fiberglass windows for their strength, stability, and resistance to temperature fluctuations. This is especially important for darker window frames, which absorb more heat.
Beyond aesthetics, homeowners are increasingly aware of how windows affect indoor comfort, reducing drafts, outside noise, and energy loss.
→ Quick Tip:
If your home feels drafty or unevenly heated, windows may be the issue, even if they “look fine” from the outside.
Upgrading with replacement windows can improve comfort, efficiency, and long-term value while supporting modern design goals.
Home by Splitrock Custom Homes, Marvin Doors by Jones Paint & Glass, Trystan Guard Photography
Door Trends for 2026
If you believe doors are only for function, then you’re missing out! Doors have become a design statement indoors and out (and, of course, there are functional upgrades as well). A beautiful craftsman-style entry door can set the tone in your entryway, increasing curb appeal as well as perceived home value. A large scenic patio door can bring extra light and beauty in the home! Read below for the top door design trends in 2026.
Entry Doors: A True Design Feature
In 2026, front doors are no longer just functional, they’re intentional design elements. Homeowners are choosing bold but timeless colors like deep blue, forest green, warm black, and natural wood finishes to create a welcoming first impression.
→ Consider This:
Replacing your front door can dramatically improve curb appeal, security, and insulation all in a single upgrade.
Learn more about entry door replacement options.
Patio Doors: Light, Flow, and Performance
Large scenic patio doors remain popular, but energy efficiency is now non-negotiable. Homeowners want expansive views and smooth transitions without sacrificing comfort during hot summers or cold winters.
Home by Ence Homes, Garage Doors by Jones Paint & Glass
Garage Door Trends for 2026
Garage doors are finally getting the attention they deserve. Because they occupy so much of a home’s exterior, an outdated garage door can undermine an otherwise updated façade.
In 2026, popular styles blend modern farmhouse and contemporary design with clean panels, subtle textures, wood-look finishes, and glass accents. At the same time, insulated construction and smart technology are becoming standard expectations.
Quick Tip:
If your garage is attached to your home, an insulated door can help regulate interior temperatures and reduce energy loss.
→ Explore garage door replacement options.
Bathroom Glass & Mirror Trends for 2026
Bathrooms continue to evolve into spa-inspired retreats in 2026 with spaces designed to feel calm, open, and restorative rather than purely functional. Glass plays a central role in that transformation, helping bathrooms feel brighter, more spacious, and more refined without adding visual clutter.
One of the biggest reasons homeowners continue to invest in glass upgrades is how dramatically they change the feel of a bathroom. Replacing heavy shower curtains or framed enclosures with clean glass instantly opens the room, allows tile and stonework to become integrated into the design, and makes even smaller bathrooms feel more expansive.
Home by Slate Ridge Homes, Frameless Shower Glass & Hardware by Jones Paint & Glass
Shower Glass: Clean, Open, and Timeless
Frameless shower glass remains the most popular choice heading into 2026, especially in Utah homes. Clear, non-textured glass continues to dominate because it offers a timeless look that works equally well in modern, transitional, and classic bathrooms. It highlights tile details, maximizes natural light, and creates that “hotel-like” openness many homeowners are looking for.
While clear glass remains the standard, some homeowners are incorporating subtle variations such as lightly frosted or softly textured glass in specific situations where additional privacy or texture is desired. These options tend to work best in shared bathrooms or homes where the shower is highly visible from the rest of the space. That said, the overall trend in 2026 still strongly favors clean, unobstructed glass for its versatility and longevity.
→ Visualize this:
A frameless glass shower with minimal hardware, warm tile tones, and soft lighting—simple, uncluttered, and easy to maintain.
Home by Madsen Homes, Custom Mirror by Jones Paint & Glass
Mirrors: Where Design Meets Daily Function
Mirrors are becoming a key design feature in 2026 bathrooms. Homeowners are choosing mirrors that do more than reflect light, opting instead for pieces that improve functionality and elevate the entire space.
Backlit mirrors and integrated lighting are especially popular because they provide even, flattering illumination for daily routines while creating a subtle glow that feels modern and calming. Sleek, low-profile designs help bathrooms feel polished without overpowering other elements, and integrated storage options such as updated medicine cabinets offer practical organization without sacrificing style.
→ Visualize this:
A softly backlit mirror above the vanity, casting warm light across the space and eliminating harsh shadows. Functional, calming, and effortlessly modern.
A High-Impact Upgrade with Minimal Disruption
One of the reasons bathroom glass and mirror upgrades are so popular is that they offer a significant visual return without requiring a full remodel. In many cases, homeowners can achieve a completely refreshed look without moving tile, plumbing, or cabinetry, making glass and mirrors one of the most efficient design upgrades available.
→ Consider This:
Bathroom glass and mirror upgrades often deliver one of the biggest visual transformations in a home without the cost, mess, or downtime of a full renovation.
👉 Explore our custom shower glass and custom mirrors to see how small changes can make a big impact.
Interior Design Tips That Will Feel Current in 2026
Interior design in 2026 is less about following strict rules and more about creating spaces that feel comfortable, intentional, and personal. Homeowners are moving away from overly minimal or perfectly coordinated interiors and instead embracing designs that feel layered, tactile, and thoughtfully assembled over time. The goal isn’t to impress at first glance, it’s to create rooms that feel good to live in day after day.
Another defining theme of 2026 interiors is balance. Visual interest is coming from texture, lighting, and contrast rather than bold colors or trendy finishes that can feel dated quickly. These design choices help homes feel elevated without sacrificing warmth or livability.
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Texture is a defining feature: think reeded glass, fluted wood, layered fabrics
Texture is being used to add depth and softness to interiors that might otherwise feel flat. Reeded or fluted glass shows up in shower enclosures, cabinet inserts, interior doors, and even decorative room dividers, offering privacy while still allowing light to pass through. Fluted wood details on cabinetry, wall paneling, or furniture add architectural interest without overwhelming a space. Layered fabrics such as linen drapery, wool rugs, upholstered seating, and textured throw pillows help balance against harder surfaces like glass and stone, making rooms feel more inviting and complete. -
Lighting is warmer and more intentional, reducing harsh overhead glare
In 2026, lighting is being treated as a design feature rather than an afterthought. Homeowners are shifting away from bright, cool overhead lighting and instead layering multiple light sources throughout a space. Warm-toned bulbs, lamps, wall sconces, pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, and backlit mirrors all contribute to a softer, more flattering glow. This approach not only improves ambiance, but also highlights architectural details, finishes, and textures. -
Spaces feel curated rather than perfectly matched, blending old and new
Perfectly coordinated furniture sets and finishes are giving way to more collected, personal interiors. In 2026, it’s common to see modern elements paired with vintage or heirloom pieces, mixed metals in lighting and hardware, and a blend of matte and reflective finishes. This layered approach adds character and prevents spaces from feeling overly staged. Updated paint colors, windows, doors, and glass provide a clean, cohesive foundation that allows curated décor to shine without feeling cluttered.
These details work especially well alongside updated paint and glass, helping homes feel refined but lived-in, polished enough to feel current, yet comfortable enough to truly enjoy.
Home Improvements Contractors Expect Most in 2026
From a contractor perspective, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of steady, strategic upgrades rather than large-scale, full-home remodels. Many homeowners are choosing to improve the homes they already love, focusing on projects that deliver noticeable results without the extended timelines, higher costs, or disruption of major renovations.
Contractors are seeing strong demand for improvements that enhance comfort, efficiency, and appearance all at once. These projects tend to feel “worth it” quickly, both in daily use and long-term value, making them especially appealing for homeowners planning to stay put for the foreseeable future.
Most Common Projects Contractors Expect in 2026
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Exterior refreshes (paint, doors, garage doors)
Exterior updates continue to top the list because they offer immediate curb appeal and help protect the home from weather and wear. Fresh paint, updated entry doors, and modern garage doors can dramatically change how a home looks from the street, often without altering the structure itself. These upgrades also help homeowners feel renewed pride in their homes and are commonly chosen as first-phase improvements. -
Energy-efficiency improvements (windows and sealing)
Rising energy costs and increased awareness of indoor comfort are driving homeowners to prioritize energy-efficient upgrades. Replacing older windows, improving seals, and addressing drafts can significantly reduce heat loss, improve temperature consistency, and make homes more comfortable year-round. Contractors note that these upgrades often deliver benefits homeowners feel immediately, especially during seasonal temperature extremes. Read our “energy efficient windows in Utah” article to see more detailed information on windows specifically for Utah climates and local tax benefits. -
Bathroom updates focused on glass, mirrors, lighting, and storage
Rather than full bathroom remodels, many homeowners are opting for targeted updates that refresh the space without moving plumbing or tile. New shower glass, updated mirrors, improved lighting, and smarter storage solutions can transform how a bathroom looks and functions while keeping projects efficient and cost-conscious. These upgrades are especially popular because they balance aesthetics with everyday usability. -
Interior paint and hardware upgrades
Interior paint remains one of the most flexible and cost-effective ways to update a home. Contractors are also seeing homeowners pair new paint with updated hardware, such as door handles, cabinet pulls, and light fixtures, to give spaces a cohesive, refreshed look. These smaller upgrades are often completed in stages, making them easier to budget and schedule.
Taken together, these projects strike a balance between visual impact, cost, and disruption. They allow homeowners to modernize their spaces, improve comfort, and extend the life of their homes without committing to large-scale renovations. For many households in 2026, that balance is exactly what makes these improvements the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dark windows still in style in 2026?
Yes, especially when paired with materials designed to handle heat and sun exposure.
What home improvements add the most value in 2026?
Exterior paint, replacement windows, entry doors, garage doors, and bathroom upgrades continue to offer strong ROI.
Do 2026 design trends favor resale or personal comfort?
Most trends in 2026 are prioritizing comfort and durability first, with resale value as a secondary benefit. This is because the fluctuating financial market is making it increasingly attractive to stay in a home longer.
How often should windows or doors be replaced?
Most quality windows and doors last 20–30 years, depending on materials, installation, and climate exposure.
What are the biggest home design trends for 2026?
Warm paint colors, energy-efficient windows, statement doors, modern garage doors, and spa-inspired bathroom glass upgrades lead the way.
Bringing 2026 Trends Home with Jones Paint & Glass
Trends come and go, but craftsmanship lasts. Jones Paint & Glass helps homeowners bring 2026 design trends to life through quality paint products, windows, doors, garage doors, shower glass, and mirrors, always with a focus on durability, performance, and timeless design.
About the Author
Mikelle Despain has been providing design tips and inspiration for Jones Paint & Glass for over 10 years. She is a regular guest on the KSL Home Radio Show and Podcast with Heather Osmond where she shares color trends, design ideas, and information about paint and glass products. With a background in journalism and passion for interior design, she enjoys the opportunity to share the latest trends with Utah and beyond.
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