As 2026 gets underway, home design is clearly moving in a new direction. Zillow’s Home Trends Report, based on millions of for-sale listings across the country, reveals that buyers are stepping away from short-lived fads and leaning into spaces that feel personal, functional, and built for everyday living.
From bold color to wellness-driven upgrades, epoxy flooring can be a great way to embrace durable design choices.
1. Color-Drenched Drama
One of the most striking trends of 2026 is color drenching. Zillow reports a significant year-over-year increase in listings that feature immersive color palettes extending across walls, trim, ceilings, floors, and even furniture. Epoxy flooring fits naturally here, offering a wide range of solid colors, decorative flake blends, and metallic finishes that add depth and visual interest while maintaining durability.
2. Cozy Reading Nooks
Buyers are also carving out quieter, more intentional spaces. Cozy reading nooks and personal retreats are appearing more frequently in listings, reflecting a desire for calm within busy households.
3. Resilient Homes
Resilience is a growing priority in 2026. Zillow notes more mentions of flood protection, fire safety features, and durability-focused upgrades as homeowners look to protect their investment.
4. Sustainability With Staying Power
Sustainability continues to influence how people upgrade their homes. Buyers are favoring energy-efficient, long-life improvements that reduce waste and replacement costs over time. Mentions of zero-energy-ready homes are up 70%, whole-home batteries are up 40%, and electric vehicle charging are up 25%. Broad descriptions like “sustainable” or “green” are also appearing 21% more often.
5. Self-Care at Home
Wellness-driven design remains strong, especially in spa-inspired bathrooms and utility spaces. Easy-to-clean, low-maintenance surfaces are essential in these areas. Epoxy flooring supports this trend with seamless, non-porous surfaces and moisture mitigation that help bathrooms, laundry rooms, and home gyms stay clean and comfortable.
6. The “Man Cave” Gets a Redesign
Traditional “man caves” are fading, according to Zillow’s data, replaced by activity-focused spaces that support movement and play. Mentions of golf simulators, pickleball setups, and even batting cages are on the rise.
Basements and garages can be a perfect starting place for small-scale activity hubs. Waterproofing basements helps transform underused lower levels into dry, comfortable spaces perfect for a home gym, while professionally installed garage floor coatings create durable, moisture mitigated foundations for fitness equipment, hobbies, and recreation.
7. Personalized Spaces With Character
Finally, homeowners are embracing artisan, vintage, and whimsical touches that reflect personal style. These details bring warmth and individuality into the home, signaling a move away from cookie-cutter design.
What’s Out in 2026
Zillow’s report also highlights what buyers are moving away from: high-maintenance finishes and upgrades that look good but don’t hold up. In 2026, durability, flexibility, and ease of care matter more than novelty.
That shift explains why epoxy flooring continues to gain traction in garages, basements, and interior spaces alike. It supports bold design, adapts to how spaces are actually used, and delivers long-term performance where homeowners need it most.
If epoxy flooring, basement waterproofing, or garage floor coatings can help your home function better in 2026 and beyond, reach out to GarageFloorCoating.com to request a quote.
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