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Houzz recently released the 2026 U.S. Houzz Emerging Summer Trends Report, detailing upcoming design trends based on the latest research from U.S. home professionals, homeowners and design enthusiasts. The report found homeowners are leaning towards tactile, sensory-rich environments that combine nature-inspired elements, curves and warm color palettes as summer approaches, as well as spaces designed for wellness, connection and play.
See some of the top trends noted in the report:
Curves & Soft Geometry
Rounded silhouettes and wave-like details are now gaining momentum in architectural features and other areas as homeowners move away from rigid lines in favor of softer, more fluid forms. Searches for “scalloped tile” surged more than 3 times, while “wave tile” also saw a search uptick of 38%. In the kitchen, searches for “arched range hood” and “arched pantry door” climbed 177% and 130%, respectively, while “rounded kitchen island” and “curved peninsulas and islands” saw increased search traffic (up 123% and 61%, respectively). Homeowners are also embracing sculptural elements like “curved staircase,” which saw a 66% increase in searches.
Tactile Textures
Touch is becoming as important as sight in home design as homeowners seek out highly sensory experiences where traditionally flat surfaces become rich, touchable dimensions. Searches for “sandstone” have increased 257%, while searches have doubled for “linen wallpaper” (up 104%) and “seagrass wallpaper” (up 94%). Venetian plaster, terracotta flooring and limewash interior paint are becoming more popular and searches for “wainscoting” was up 32% as homeowners embrace classic wall treatments that add texture, dimension and timeless character.
Warm, Earthy Colors
Rich, earthy hues are taking center stage this summer as homeowners embrace palettes that feel cozy, grounding and timeless. Searches for “rust colors” rose 178%, while “chocolate brown” increased 153%, signaling a growing appreciation for warm, saturated tones. Softer neutrals are also becoming more widely used, including “mushroom color” (up 69%), “sage” (up 55%), “taupe” (up 50%) and “cream” (up 44%). Together, these colors create layered interiors that feel calming yet sophisticated, offering an inviting alternative to cooler minimalist palettes.
Nostalgic Spaces
Homeowners are increasingly designing rooms dedicated to analog entertainment, connection and old-fashioned fun. Searches for “mahjong room” skyrocketed nearly 20 times, while searches also climbed for “card room” (up 129%), “board game room” (up 45%) and “poker room” (up 38%). “Bibliothèque” searches have risen 191%, “speakeasy” searches are up 75% and searches for “playroom” are up 38%.
Read the full report here.
Feature image photo credit: Vision Interiors
