Neil Kelly Forecasts 2026 Home Design Trends Emphasizing Nature, Craftsmanship, and Wellness

Neil Kelly has released its 2026 Home Design Trends Forecast, identifying nine key directions that reflect homeowners' growing desire for living spaces that feel grounding, warm, and connected to the natural world. The forecast suggests a significant shift from the minimalist, gray-dominated aesthetics of recent years toward more personalized, emotionally resonant environments.

One prominent trend is the "Return to Earth," characterized by increased use of natural materials like stone, wood, and organic textures. Mary Miksch, Design Director for Neil Kelly, notes a movement away from man-made materials toward authentic, natural elements, particularly in wood flooring and paneling. This trend responds to the accelerating pace of technology and artificial intelligence, with homeowners seeking calming, grounding presences in their domestic environments.

Pattern and color are undergoing substantial transformations. Wallpaper is evolving from decorative afterthought to architectural detail, with botanical prints, moody landscapes, and mural-style art adding personality and depth. Selah Ewert, General Manager of Neil Kelly Bend, observes that pattern play extends beyond walls to include checkerboard floors, graphic tile layouts, and statement ceilings becoming "fifth walls." Color trends are shifting from cool grays and whites to warm browns, jewel tones, and darker natural greens, with designers anticipating increased use of deep purples, cabernet reds, and teal-blue peacock hues.

Craftsmanship is gaining importance in an increasingly digital world. Amanda Armstrong Sava, General Manager of Neil Kelly Seattle, reports more clients seeking hand-crafted custom pieces that bring meaning and artistry into everyday spaces. This "Crafted with Intention" trend encompasses handrails, millwork, cabinetry, and custom tilework that offer storytelling opportunities and real-life connections.

Metallic finishes are evolving toward champagne bronze, brushed brass, and warm nickel, with intentional mixing of metals becoming more acceptable when tones feel harmonious. The "Vintage Meets Modern" trend honors historical periods like Victorian and Craftsman styles while reinterpreting classic motifs for contemporary living through heirloom silhouettes and expressive details grounded by modern furniture.

Emotional quality is becoming as important as aesthetics in "Mood-Boosting Design," with designers prioritizing warmth, joy, and personal connection. This approach incorporates color psychology, lighter palettes in high-traffic areas, deeper tones in private spaces, and attention to scent, sound, and tactile materials. Curated entertainment areas like coffee and beverage bars are emerging as part of this trend.

Architectural forms are softening, with curves, circles, and sculptural shapes replacing straight lines and hard edges in showers, arched openings, barrel vaulted ceilings, and fluted moldings. These forms add movement, warmth, and a sense of ease to living spaces.

Perhaps most significantly, health and wellness are becoming central to home design. Matt White, General Manager for Neil Kelly Eugene/Springfield, predicts increased requests for sauna rooms, steam showers, home gyms, infrared saunas, and cold plunges as clients prioritize spaces supporting daily self-care and long-term wellness. This trend reflects broader societal shifts toward holistic well-being and the desire to create restorative sanctuaries within the home.

The complete forecast is available at https://www.neilkelly.com, where homeowners can access detailed information about these emerging design directions.