Home Renovation Trends Designers Are Saying Goodbye to in 2026
- Larry P. Gard
- Dec 17, 2025
- 2 min read
Featured experts:
Jennifer Cataldo, Founder of Maison Cataldo
Tennille Burnup, Founder of Tennille Joy Interiors
Alyssa Anselmo, Founder of Anva Studio
As we close out 2025 and plan ahead for the new year, it's smart to consider which popular renovation elements may feel dated soon. According to a recent article from Martha Stewart (published November 2025), interior designers are moving away from several once-dominant trends in favor of more timeless, textured, and personalized spaces.
1. Smooth, Flat Drywall Flat, builder-grade walls are out—designers are embracing texture for warmth and depth. "Flat walls can make a space feel cold and one-dimensional," says Jennifer Cataldo. "People want materials that feel handcrafted and alive, not sterile." Recommendation: opt for limewash, Venetian plaster, or hand-troweled finishes to add subtle movement and intentional layering.
2. Waterfall Kitchen Islands Once a hallmark of modern luxury, waterfall edges now feel
overdone. "Kitchens are moving toward islands that feel custom and inviting," notes Cataldo. "The new luxury kitchen isn’t about shock and awe—it’s about subtlety, texture, and creating a space you actually want to gather in." Recommendation: Mix materials, add sculpted edges, furniture-style bases, or warm woods and metals for richness and refinement.
3. Blonde Oak Finishes The light, airy blonde oak trend is shifting toward deeper tones. "We’re looking for more contrast and depth in our homes," says Tennille Burnup. "Think: Your grandmother’s old piano in a mid-tone amber, or a timber-framed armchair stained in walnut." Recommendation: Incorporate richer, mid-tone woods for greater visual interest.
4. Matching Everything Perfectly coordinated interiors lack personality. "Homeowners want sanctuaries, not show homes," explains Burnup. "When everything matches perfectly, it strips away individuality." Recommendation: Intentionally mix materials, eras, and styles.
5. Fake Scandinavian Style Mass-produced "Scandi" minimalism misses the mark on
authenticity. "True Scandinavian design is rooted in restraint and simplicity," says Alyssa Anselmo. "What’s being sold right now completely misses the point." Recommendation: Focus on clean lines, functional forms, and thoughtfully crafted pieces for a curated, warm minimalism—not catalog-like uniformity.
Source: Adapted from "5 Home Renovation Trends That Are Out for 2026, According to Interior Designers," Martha Stewart (marthastewart.com). Expert quotes and insights courtesy of the featured designers.
Comments