Top Home Renovation & Design Trends for 2026: What to Plan This New Year

As we step into 2026, the buzz around home improvement is louder than ever. It’s not just about tearing down walls or building additions. This year’s hottest home trends focus on meaningful, transformative changes that don’t require a major overhaul. The good news? You can get a fresh, designer-worthy look with just a few strategic updates—and Nexa Group is here to help.

From colour-forward interiors to practical-yet-stylish upgrades, we’ve rounded up the top painting and minor renovation trends for 2026 that you can actually achieve this year. So grab your inspiration boards and get ready to transform your space with these doable (and dreamy) updates.

1. Earth-Toned Colour Palettes Are Here to Stay

If you’re planning a painting project this year, think warmth, calm, and natural vibes. The trending colour palettes of 2026 are inspired by nature. Rich clays, olive greens, terracotta, warm taupe, and golden ochres are dominating interior design boards.

Why it works: Earth tones create a cozy, grounded atmosphere that feels both modern and timeless. Whether you're repainting an entire room or just adding an accent wall, choosing the right warm hue can instantly elevate your space.

2. Feature Walls with Texture and Character

Move over flat paint; 2026 is all about adding depth and personality to your walls. From board-and-batten accents to lime wash finishes and painted geometric designs, feature walls are making a big impact in small ways.

Easy upgrades to try:

• Wood slat walls painted in deep greens or navy

• Two-tone wall painting to break up a large space

• Textured finishes like brushed or sponge effects

  
  

These upgrades are perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or entryways—and they don’t require a full renovation. With Nexa’s skilled painters, your feature wall can go from vision to reality in just a day or two.

3. Smart & Stylish Minor Home Renovations

Homeowners in 2026 are skipping the massive gut-jobs in favour of targeted updates that add value and style. A few of the most popular minor renovation ideas this year include:

• Bathroom refreshes with updated vanities, paint, and modern fixtures

• Trim and moulding upgrades to add architectural charm

• Built-in shelving or nooks to maximize space

• Mudroom makeovers with new paint and simple carpentry

  
  

These projects are high-impact and low-stress—perfect for busy families who want change without the chaos. Nexa specializes in these types of minor renovations, offering creative solutions that blend form and function.

4. Kitchen Glow-Ups Without the Gut Job

Full kitchen remodels? Still popular, but not always necessary. This year, homeowners are choosing smaller changes that deliver a major visual punch. Think:

• Repainting cabinets in bold hues like midnight blue or forest green

• Adding new hardware and fresh caulking

• Installing open shelving or stylish backsplashes

• Updating walls with a new coat of paint in trendy, inviting tones

  
  

These upgrades can totally revamp your kitchen’s vibe without the price tag or timeline of a full remodel.

Nexa can help: Our painters and renovation pros can breathe new life into your kitchen with wall refreshes and subtle enhancements that feel custom without the cost.

5. Colour Psychology Meets Design Strategy

One of the biggest design philosophies taking centre stage in 2026 is colour psychology—using paint to influence how a room feels. It's not just about aesthetics anymore; it's about emotion.

• Calming blues for bedrooms and reading nooks

• Uplifting greens for kitchens and creative spaces

• Warm neutrals in entryways to create welcoming energy

• Dramatic jewel tones in powder rooms for bold, elegant statements

  
  

With professional painting, these tones can set the mood and define the function of each space. Nexa’s team can guide you through colour choices to align with how you want your home to feel in the new year.

6. The Rise of Multi-Functional Spaces

With more people working from home and craving flexibility in their space, multi-functional rooms are a must. Paint and small renovations can help create clear zones for work, rest, and play, even in open-concept homes.

Here’s how to define your space without construction:

• Use contrasting wall colours to separate areas visually

• Add custom trim work to delineate spaces

• Use paint to frame “nooks” for reading, working, or studying

• Incorporate storage upgrades that blend seamlessly with your decor

  
  

Nexa can help you rethink your layout with smart, stylish updates that work harder for your lifestyle.

7. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Updates

Sustainability continues to be a key theme going into 2026. That includes using low-VOC, eco-friendly paints and selecting timeless finishes that won’t need to be redone in a year.

Good to know: Nexa proudly uses high-quality, low-VOC paints that are safer for your family and the environment. Choosing sustainable materials for minor renovations also supports healthier homes—and smarter design.

8. Embracing Personal Style

In 2026, it’s all about making your home reflect your personality. Customization is key. Whether you prefer bold, vibrant colours or soft, muted tones, the choice is yours.

Personal touches to consider:

• Artwork that resonates with you

• Unique decor items that tell your story

• Family heirlooms displayed prominently

  
  

By incorporating these elements, you create a space that feels uniquely yours.

Let 2026 Be the Year You Love Your Home Again

You don’t need a massive remodel to feel like you’re living in a brand-new space. Whether it’s a stunning paint colour, an updated kitchen wall, or a perfectly executed bathroom refresh, the right changes, done well, can transform the way you experience your home.

At Nexa Painting, we specialize in painting and minor renovations that deliver maximum style with minimal disruption. From trendy colour updates to smart room enhancements, we’re here to help you start the New Year with a space you love.

Ready to Transform Your Home for 2026?

Contact Nexa today to schedule your free estimate and get expert advice on painting and renovation projects that align with the latest trends and your personal style. Let’s make this your most beautiful year yet.

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