Across Minnesota, homeowners are transforming their backyards into true extensions of their homes with custom landscaping, pools, outdoor kitchens, covered porches and resort-style gathering spaces. In 2026, there has been a major shift toward outdoor projects that feel intentional, elevated and designed around how families actually want to live. For many Minnesota homeowners, outdoor kitchens have become one of the most valuable and frequently used features of the backyard. Popular outdoor kitchen features include built-in grills, pizza ovens, beverage refrigerators, bar seating and serving areas, weather-resistant cabinetry, integrated lighting and…
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Personality and functionality take center stage in kitchen design
Kitchens are among the most popular rooms to renovate, since it is one of the most used spaces in a home. According to a study by Ruby Home realtors, 24% of homeowners did a kitchen renovation project in 2024. Personality and functionality are at the forefront of design trends. Tile pattern splicing layers patterns with plain ones to add depth and personality to kitchen backsplashes. This popular trend often embraces traditional English decor, making heavy use of florals and Delft motifs. “By interspersing decorative tiles with plains, you introduce rhythm,…
Read MoreOutdoor kitchens inspire luxury living
Outdoor kitchens are among the top design trends in luxury renovations. Homeowners want these spaces designed with the same attention to detail as any interior room in a home. When undergoing a backyard upgrade, clients want dining, lounging and water elements incorporated within an outdoor kitchen, rather than dropped onto the patio as an accessory. The most popular design in outdoor kitchens has moved away from the standalone island and toward a kitchen drawn into a larger plan. Instead of one bar set apart from the living areas, the cooking zone,…
Read MoreTop kitchen and bathroom design trends
At the midpoint in 2026, homeowners have been approaching renovations differently from previous years. Design decisions are no longer focused solely on aesthetics, but rather on functionality, sustainability, technology and long-term value. Smarter living spaces, personalized layouts, natural materials and wellness-focused designs are among the most popular design trends in renovation projects this year. The kitchen continues to serve as the center of household activity, with homeowners wanting spaces that support cooking, entertaining, working and family interaction simultaneously. Smart kitchens are becoming the standard, while natural materials and concealed storage…
Read MoreSummer 2026 Renovation Trends
Every summer brings a new wave of design trends, but 2026 is already looking different. Homeowners are moving away from quick-fix updates and focusing on improvements that make their homes more comfortable, functional and enjoyable for years to come. Remodelers and designers are seeing an increase in clients seeking a blend between indoor and outdoor living, wanting spaces that equally support functionality and entertainment. Outdoor spaces remain one of the most requested home improvements. Instead of simple patios and decks, families are creating outdoor spaces that function like an extension…
Read MoreHome renovations driven by wellness-inspired design
The interior design trends that have driven 2026 so far have undergone a profound transformation, reflecting a transition from chasing trending aesthetics to selecting designs that support holistic living. Homes are no longer just places to rest at the end of a long day; they have evolved into dynamic, self-sustaining ecosystems. That evolution is reflected in the new prominent theme in 2026’s home renovations: wellness. Designers are embracing restorative interior design principles for wellness, ensuring that today’s homes actively contribute to clients’ physical and emotional health. A major component of…
Read MoreCustom decks see increase in backyard upgrades
With summer right around the corner, more homeowners across Central Pennsylvania and Northern Maryland are increasingly thinking of backyard renovations. The top emerging design for 2026 backyard renovations is custom decks, specifically ones that are multi-level. Clients are increasingly asking for decks that move beyond a single flat platform, using two or three levels to create distinct zones for dining, lounging and grilling. Multi-level designs work especially well on Central Pennsylvania’s rolling lots, where natural grade changes can be turned into intentional design features rather than obstacles. Stepped transitions, built-in…
Read MoreOutdoor kitchens are the upcoming summer trend
The ideal outdoor setup from previous years consisted of a patio and a grill overlooking a beautiful backyard. These days, however, homeowners are thinking bigger for their backyard renovations, seeking more from outdoor living. According to a new outdoor trends study, outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular. Clients want their outdoor kitchens designed with as much care that goes into their indoor counterparts. The top upgrades respondents plan to include are as follows: 62% plan to incorporate beverage fridges, 59% are planning for sinks and 38% want an outdoor T.V.…
Read MoreThese kitchen design trends are on the rise
While every space in a home is prone to evolving design trends, the kitchen has seen the greatest shift in 2026. According to designers, a kitchen remodel is the biggest investment homeowners can make when it comes to upgrading their forever home or attempting to boost resale value. “One of the very best ways to take a kitchen from basic-looking to truly elevated and exceptional is to select natural stone in bolder patterns and richer colors,” said designer Kelly Neely. Large cooktop niches are becoming increasingly popular, according to Kira…
Read MoreSummer inspires landscape and backyard renovations
Summer is just around the corner, which means that homeowners are starting to think about backyard and landscape renovations. Outdoor spaces are becoming even more communal and wellness-centered. Designers are starting to see an increase in low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscaping and outdoor spaces that offer visual interest throughout the entire year. Organic, natural materials are continuing to rise in popularity as a staple for both interior and exterior design. Expect to see more stone, reclaimed wood and gravel incorporated in landscape designs. Homeowners are looking to spend more time outdoors to…
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