1
Warm, Grounded Color Palettes
Cool grays had a long run, but 2026 homes are leaning into warmth. Think creamy ivories, sandy beiges, soft clay tones, muted greens, and deeper “cocooning” colors used strategically in dining rooms, studies, and primary suites. The goal is a home that feels calming and inviting in every season, especially in Kentucky’s changing light throughout the year.
P.L. Lyons tip: Keep main living areas warm and light, then use richer tones in smaller rooms to create a sense of depth and intention.
2
“Lived-In” Luxury
One of the strongest 2026 shifts is toward homes that feel collected rather than staged. More clients want spaces that look elevated, but still relaxed. That means layered textiles, meaningful art, vintage or heirloom accents, and a mix of materials that add character over time. The result is luxury that feels human and welcoming, not sterile.
P.L. Lyons tip: The most timeless interiors are built on good bones: quality millwork, thoughtful proportions, and natural materials, then finished with personal layers.
3
Texture and Tactile Materials
In 2026, texture is doing a lot of the visual heavy lifting. Homeowners are choosing natural stone with movement, warm woods, matte ceramics, and soft textiles (linen, wool, bouclé) to create depth without relying on busy patterns. Even when a palette is neutral, the space still feels rich because it’s designed to be felt as much as seen.
Where it shows up most: fireplaces, kitchen backsplashes, feature walls, ceilings, hardware, and custom built-ins.
4
The “Layered Kitchen”
Open-concept living is still popular, but clients want the main kitchen to feel clean and beautiful, even when real life is happening. That’s why layered kitchens are surging: walk-in pantries, sculleries, prep kitchens, and appliance garages that hide clutter, streamline workflow, and keep entertaining spaces looking calm.
P.L. Lyons tip: If you’re deciding where to invest, storage and workflow upgrades improve daily life more than any “statement” finish.
5
Flexible Floor Plans Built Around Routines
The next era of floor plans is less about being wide open and more about being intentional. Families want spaces that flex: homework zones, quiet corners, home offices that can convert, guest suites that work for aging in place, and layouts that support privacy when needed. Instead of one giant room doing everything, we’re seeing better-defined zones that still feel connected.
P.L. Lyons tip: The most functional homes are designed around “day in the life” moments – mornings, drop zones, entertaining, and end-of-day resets.
6
Wellness-First Design
Wellness design isn’t a buzzword anymore; It’s becoming a baseline expectation. Clients are prioritizing natural light, calmer bedrooms, healthier materials, better air quality, and home features that help people rest and reset. Biophilic elements (plants, natural materials, and indoor-outdoor connection) continue to grow because they create an everyday sense of ease.
Easy wins: bigger sightlines to windows, more natural textures, and fewer harsh, glossy finishes.
7
Lighting That Supports Real Living
In 2026, lighting is less “one fixture per room” and more about layering: ambient + task + accent – nearly always with dimming. More homeowners are also thinking about how lighting affects mood, energy, and sleep. Human-centric approaches (warmer evenings, adjustable brightness, thoughtful placement) are becoming part of the design conversation from the start.
P.L. Lyons tip: Great lighting makes every finish look better, and it changes how your home feels at every time of day.