1. Too-Open Layouts

While open concept layouts aren’t phasing out completely, Knowles says how we use our spaces is—and that should be part of the equation. “People are looking for more segmented, usable rooms for family members to work in, relax in, and spend time in with each other without disturbing the folks in other spaces,” he explains.

Polsky says the key is to allow for an evolution of “open concept” as we know it. Think open, but not exposed. “That often means architectural transitions like cased openings, gallery hallways, or subtle separations between living areas that maintain flow while improving livability,” says the Texas-based luxury home builder. “A well-designed custom home should create moments of connection while still allowing privacy.”

These features can help reduce noise and create a more intimate feel while still allowing for the togetherness we’ve come to appreciate in open floor plans. “The best homes don’t feel like one big room—they feel intentional,” says Polsky.

2. Fleeting Trendy Materials

“Materials are one of the fastest ways to date a home,” says Polsky. “They can feel exciting in the moment, but they rarely age well.” Think overly dramatic engineered stone, heavy fluting, matte black finishes, brushed nickel fixtures, millennial gray color palettes, and more. “Instead, we prioritize natural materials that stand the test of time—real stone, warm woods, plaster finishes, and layered textures that develop character,” he says.

Use trends as part of your inspiration, but be sure to incorporate them thoughtfully and in a way that doesn’t require a big lift with future updates. Elements like paint, lighting, furniture, and decor are definite opportunities to have a little more fun with trends without worrying about longer-term ramifications.

For those looking to sell their home in the short term, you might be able to have a bit more fun with trends that could be more fleeting, says Skyler Buckner, owner of Rise Above Remodeling. “If you are looking to live in a home for a short period of time, it can be beneficial to remodel around trendy design elements since that is what the majority of buyers are looking for at the moment,” he says.

3. Niche Design Features

If you’re looking to make updates to your home that won’t hurt resale, it’s best to avoid design features that are overly specific to you. “Steam showers, oversized bathtubs, laundry rooms in the wrong place, like too far from the bedrooms, garages that don’t fit a car and are only used for storage—all bad ideas,” warns Knowles.

While you want to make sure your home supports the way you live, there’s a fine line if you’re looking for long-term value. Other design decisions, like oversized statement lighting, lots of open shelving in a kitchen that requires constant styling, and even removing all the tubs from a home in favor of walk-in showers, can be bad news when it comes time to sell. Instead, Harrison suggests approaching your design decisions through a “lens of livability.”

“Every feature should improve the daily experience of living in the home,” he says. “When design is done well, it feels effortless.” And that is one thing that will certainly shine through with future prospective buyers.

4. A Bonanza of Built-Ins

As with most of the home renovation trends found on this list, what starts out as a good thing can quickly turn sour if you lean into it too heavily. Case in point: built-ins. While too many built-ins with highly specific or personalized functionality can make a space feel rigid and limit furniture flexibility, Polsky says taking a purposeful approach can help ensure your built-ins don’t become a design decision you soon regret.

“Use custom millwork to enhance architecture and function like storage cabinetry that feels like furniture and architectural details that elevate the room without overwhelming it,” he says. “A home should feel curated, not constrained.”

4 Reno Trends Contractors Actually Approve

Looking for updates that will stand the test of time? Look to these contractor-approved renovation trends.

1. Stained Wood

Knowles says stained wood—particularly red oak cabinetry—continues to resonate with homeowners and gain popularity. “A few years back, it was unheard of to do any stained wood cabinetry, and now it is becoming the most popular in our projects.”

2. Indoor-Outdoor Living

“One trend that continues to prove its staying power is indoor-outdoor living, particularly in markets like Dallas where outdoor entertaining is a major part of the lifestyle,” says Polsky. “Seamless transitions to covered terraces, outdoor kitchens, and wellness features are becoming essential in luxury custom home design.”

3. Natural Materials and Palettes

The nature-forward palettes and materials that have been trending in recent years are nothing new. Their calming, grounded feel provides a warm welcome that Polsky says will continue to resonate with homeowners.

4. Wallcoverings

While Buckner admits a steady stream of requests for wallpaper removal in his 20-year remodeling career, it’s not one-sided, with steady requests for wallpaper and wallcovering installation, too. Look to classic motifs, subtle prints, and patterns that appeal to you, your home’s aesthetic, and lifestyle, for a wallcovering that you won’t be calling off by next season.