How trends really show up

The clearest signals come from the Twin Cities Parade of Homes, what local builders hear daily, and national data that shows preferences already moving. When those align, you get trends that reflect how people in Minnesota actually live.

Every few years, the Twin Cities housing market quietly shifts. Not in a flashy, overnight way — but in a steady, noticeable change you feel when you walk through enough homes. The finishes feel warmer. The layouts make more sense. Certain details start showing up again and again.

If you’re wondering what home design trends will define Minneapolis–St. Paul in 2026, the answer isn’t guesswork. The clearest signals come from three places:

  • the Twin Cities Parade of Homes, where buyers vote with their feet
  • what local builders and design-build firms hear from clients every day
  • and national home design data that shows where preferences are already moving

When you line those up, a clear picture forms — one that reflects how people in Minnesota actually live.

1Warm Wood Kitchens Are Replacing All-White Designs

The all-white kitchen had a long run. And it’s not disappearing — it’s just no longer the default.

In 2026, Twin Cities kitchens are trending warmer and more natural. White oak, maple, and wood cabinetry are taking center stage, often paired with lighter perimeter cabinets or soft neutral finishes. Wood islands, visible grain, and mixed materials are becoming common in both custom and move-up homes.

This isn’t about going dark or dramatic. It’s about creating kitchens that feel grounded — spaces that hold up visually through long winters and everyday use.

What you’ll see in local homes: Wood-forward kitchens, layered materials, and finishes chosen for warmth instead of trendiness.

2Curated Interiors Are Replacing “Safe” Builder Neutrals

For years, many homes were designed to offend no one. Neutral, consistent, and easy to sell — but often forgettable.

Buyers in the Twin Cities are asking for homes that feel collected over time. Interiors with personality. Rooms that mix textures, patterns, and materials instead of matching everything perfectly.

This shows up locally as a blend of Scandinavian restraint and warmer expression — clean lines paired with artisanal lighting, vintage accents, or a single bold focal point in a room.

2026 design direction: Less “builder greige.” More layering, contrast, and intention.

3Lighting and Hardware Are Becoming the Design Signature

In 2026, the details are doing more of the talking.

Cabinet hardware, faucets, and light fixtures are no longer afterthoughts — they’re defining features. Textured and etched hardware, aged brass, bronze, and warm metals are replacing flat black and chrome.

Lighting, in particular, is taking on a larger role. Oversized pendants, sculptural chandeliers, and statement sconces are becoming focal points in kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms.

Twin Cities trend: Spec homes that feel custom because the details were chosen carefully.

4Kitchens Are Being Designed Around How People Live

The kitchen remains the most important room in the house — but expectations are higher now.

Buyers want kitchens that function, not just photograph well. That’s driving demand for better storage and more clearly defined zones: walk-in pantries, back kitchens, beverage stations, coffee bars, and charging drawers.

The focus is shifting from square footage to efficiency — fewer wasted corners, more usable space. Mudrooms are also getting more attention, especially in Minnesota homes where gear, shoes, and bags are part of daily life.

What this looks like in new builds: Larger pantries, real drop zones, and kitchens designed around workflow and routine.

5Flexible Floor Plans Are Now a Must-Have

Flexibility is no longer a bonus feature — it’s expected.

Twin Cities buyers are asking for floor plans that adapt as life changes: home offices that can become guest rooms, lofts that can close off, and bonus rooms that serve more than one purpose.

Main-level suites are also gaining popularity, not just for aging in place, but for long-term versatility.

Common features in 2026 homes: Flex rooms, multi-use spaces, and layouts that avoid wasted square footage.

6Wellness and Biophilic Design Are Becoming the Baseline

Wellness-focused design is quietly becoming standard in Twin Cities homes.

More natural light. Better flow between spaces. Materials that feel calm and durable. Homes designed to support daily rhythms — waking up, working, resting — not just entertaining.

Biophilic elements are showing up through nature-inspired palettes, wood and stone finishes, and stronger indoor–outdoor connections. Even small choices—window placement, lighting temperature, quieter zones—are being framed around comfort and well-being.

Design themes to watch: Daylight-driven layouts, calming materials, and spaces that support rest and focus.

7The Twin Cities Parade of Homes Is Still the Best Trend Indicator

If you want to know what’s actually working in the market, the Twin Cities Parade of Homes remains the clearest signal.

Unlike concept boards or trend forecasts, the Parade reflects real homes, real budgets, and real buyer reactions. When a feature shows up across multiple builders and price points, it’s no longer a guess — it’s a proven trend.

Spring and Fall tours offer a live snapshot of what’s resonating right now and what’s filtering down from custom homes into broader inventory.

How to use it strategically: Tour a range of price points, photograph repeating patterns, and pay attention to builder “signatures” that show up again and again.

What “Trendy” Really Means in the Twin Cities for 2026

In Minneapolis–St. Paul, trendy doesn’t mean flashy or short-lived.

For 2026, it means:

  • warmth over sterile design
  • details over blanket minimalism
  • and homes where every space earns its square footage

The Twin Cities Parade of Homes continues to act as the market’s feedback loop — showing builders what buyers respond to and what quietly fades away.