The Biggest Home Design Shifts of 2025: What Buyers Love Right Now

Back in 2020 and 2021, when most of us were tucked away at home here in New Hampshire, our design priorities flipped practically overnight.

Dining rooms became Zoom studios. Guest rooms turned into classrooms. Backyards, yes, even in the dead of winter, became our little sanctuaries. We saw bold changes as homeowners did everything they could to make their spaces more comfortable, more functional, and honestly… more livable.

Now, as we wrap up 2025 and look ahead to 2026, the energy feels different. We’re not reacting anymore. We’re refining.

Home design across New Hampshire and especially here in our charming mix of lake, coast, and mountain communities is leaning toward spaces that feel intentional, balanced, and built for the long haul. Buyers are paying close attention to how a home feels day to day. Flow, light, efficiency, and overall experience are taking center stage.

So instead of chasing whatever trend is going viral this week, I want to break down what real buyer behavior and current Realtor.com data are telling us about what’s truly in and what’s fading fast as we head into 2026.

What’s IN for 2026

Nature-Connected Spaces

New Hampshire buyers are craving that indoor-outdoor connection. Think wide sliding doors, generous natural light, organic textures, and layouts that invite you to take a breath. Homes that feel grounded in nature whether you’re near the Seacoast or tucked into the Lakes Region create calm, healthy, expansive living.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

Eco-conscious living isn’t optional anymore. Buyers are loving:

• Water-saving fixtures

• Net-zero–ready homes

• EV charging

• Solar + battery backups

These upgrades lower both your bills and your environmental footprint major wins in our market.

Smart Home Integration

Strong internet (hello, remote work), automated lighting, and integrated smart systems are becoming expected. Convenience, comfort, and control are the new normal.

Wellness-Focused Design

Home gyms, cold plunges, spa-like baths, and peaceful outdoor spaces are on the rise. Buyers want homes that support their mental and physical well-being not just a place to sleep.

Modern, Warm Aesthetics

Think coastal modern with New England warmth: two-tone cabinetry, textured finishes, lime plaster, natural stone, aged metals. It’s curated, timeless, and still cozy perfect for our four-season lifestyle.

What’s OUT for 2026

Overly Formal Spaces

Traditional dining rooms with heavy built-ins are losing appeal. Buyers want open, flexible layouts that feel social and relaxed.

Oversized, Underused Features

Three-car garages and overly compartmentalized rooms are being traded in for efficiency and flow.

Heavily Ornate Styles

Old-World European looks and ornate finishes are taking a back seat to clean, natural, modern design.

Ultra-Specific Luxury Additions

Things like wine vaults and infinity pools still beautiful, but no longer universally desirable (and maintenance-heavy).

What This Means for New Hampshire Homeowners

If you’re thinking about updating your home, the goal isn't to chase trends it’s to make smart, timeless improvements that elevate daily living.

Upgrades worth considering:

• Fresh lighting + updated fixtures

• Creating a multipurpose or flexible office space

• Enhancing your outdoor living (yes even for winter!)

• Boosting energy efficiency

Upgrades to think twice about:

• High-maintenance, ultra-specific luxury add-ons

• Overly formal or overbuilt features

• Trend-heavy finishes that may date quickly

The Takeaway

Design in 2026 is all about intentional comfort modern but warm, efficient but inviting, stylish yet functional. Today’s buyer wants a home that simply feels good to live in.

And if you’re wondering which updates make the most sense for your neighborhood or your style of home, that’s where local expertise truly matters. New Hampshire markets are unique Londonderry doesn’t behave like Portsmouth, and the Lakes Region is a whole world of its own.

I’m always here to help you decide which improvements will bring the most value and joy, whether you’re staying put or planning for your next move.