If you’re planning a renovation or just a weekend refresh, knowing the latest home trends can guide you to design choices that feel fresh and add lasting value to your space. Outdated materials or styles can quickly make a home feel old and even affect its resale potential. The Spruce team asked interior designer and project manager Daniel Kocur about the biggest DIY trends to expect in 2026. From materials and color palettes to space planning and finishing touches, here’s what’s coming in home makeovers:
Painted Shelves
Shelves often get overlooked in home decor, but in 2026 more homes will tap into the visual power of shelves to highlight parts of their space.
“Painting and refreshing existing shelves is an affordable update that breathes new life into older storage or decorative pieces,” says Daniel Kocur. The shelf color depends on the display’s purpose.
Two main directions emerge in 2026: some DIY fans choose a shade that boldly contrasts with the room’s color to make shelves stand out. Others pick a tone from the room’s palette, so the shelves become a highlighted but not overpowering feature.
DIY Spa Bathrooms
People increasingly want to turn their space into a full relaxation zone at home, and what better way than a DIY spa-style bathroom.
“Creating simple spa-like spaces in larger bathrooms with calming decor, candles, and natural elements is a strong trend as home wellness and relaxation take center stage,” says Kocur.
When renovating a bathroom, focus on soothing, harmonious colors and natural materials: rain showerheads, stone tiles, bamboo accents.
Elevated Minimalism
The goal in 2026 is a calm, restful home. DIY lovers aim to clear out clutter and tone down flashy, expensive decor. The focus is on sustainability and quality minimalism: choosing sinks, faucets, and stone finishes that can be regularly repaired and refreshed instead of replaced at every small issue. This quality, minimalist design cuts waste and creates a serene, clean, timeless vibe in 2026 homes.
Reading Nooks
Whether for reading, phone time, or working on a laptop, reading nooks are a popular trend in 2026.
“Cozy, inviting corners with soft seating, layered lighting, and personal touches in living rooms and bedrooms support mindful relaxation and hobbies,” says Kocur.
The best part about DIY reading nooks is that they can be created almost anywhere at home, giving you your own peaceful spot whenever you need it. These corners aren’t completely closed off, making them perfect for couples and families who want to feel connected while enjoying their own activities.
Color on the Ceiling
Ceilings often get neglected, usually painted white and left untouched for years even when walls get repainted multiple times. In 2026, painting the ceiling a different color than the walls is trendy, making the ceiling a bolder part of the room. A harmonious look comes from choosing a shade slightly lighter or darker from the wall palette. For a bolder effect, pick a color that contrasts with the walls but still complements the overall scheme, creating a unique, standout space that shapes the room’s mood.
“Outdoor terraces, covered lounges, or gardens are transforming into private relaxation zones with lush greenery, comfy seating, and soft lighting,” says Kocur.
Instead of opening the garden for big gatherings, DIY fans focus on small, dedicated relaxation spots where they can enjoy a morning coffee or gaze at the stars under gentle lights in the evening. These spaces also work well for intimate friend or family get-togethers, but the main goal is peaceful, private downtime.
