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2026 Midsummer Kitchen Design Trends

2026 Midsummer Kitchen Design Trends

Coastal Farmhouse Kitchen Remodel in Huntington Beach

Before we know it, summer is going to be over within the blink of an eye! Many homeowners have had to switch up their daily routines in 2026 with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. Working from home has taken a new presence, meaning more and more of us are spending time at home staring at our walls and analyzing our outdated kitchens.

Kitchen remodeling is on the rise and with our daily routines taking a shift, among the 2026 midsummer trends, we are seeing more design features that tailor towards these trying times. Here are the 2026 midsummer kitchen design trends!

2026 Midsummer Kitchen Design Trends

Dark Cabinet Colors

Kitchen remodel with Kemper maritime cabinets with small beverage center

Dark cabinet colors are often overlooked because for a while all-white kitchens were a huge trend! As we approach the end of summer in 2026, we are noticing more and more use of color. Dark cabinet colors offer a nice contrast, especially when used in a two-tone design.

Dark cabinet colors also tend to showcase a luxurious design and can elevate the look of a space by just the color.

Smart Kitchens

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Each day it seems as if there is something new coming out in technology. Stay ahead of the game and do your research on some of these products because they may work out in your favor! Some high-tech features that are currently trending in kitchens are the motion sense-equipped kitchen faucets or the one-touch sink faucet. This makes cleaning your hands while meal prepping quick and less messy!

Another popular feature is dim lighting. Dim lighting allows you to control the brightness level of your kitchen lights so you can set the right tone in your space. Some lighting systems even allow you to control all the lights from your very own smart phone or tablet. Who knew!

Mix and Matching Metals

Believe it or not, it is okay to mix metals in your kitchen remodel. Mixing and matching metals adds character to your design and are easily interchangeable when you do want to switch things up.

Textured metals are also a great way to add personality to your kitchen without doing a whole lot. From matte black, to gold, to brass, to chrome, there are so many different options to choose from.

Mixing metals does feature a more eclectic aesthetic, but this is trending in 2026 midsummer design! It is all about finding your own style and making your space work for you.

Walk-In Pantries

Throughout 2026 we have seen open-concept kitchens lead the list in top trending kitchen ideas. A part of this design concept is allocating space for a walk-in pantry. This design keeps the pantry storage out of the way in your main kitchen area, creating a brighter and airier kitchen design.

Trending walk-in pantry elements include open shelving for easy access to goods, enclosed walls, cheerful colors, additional appliance storage space, and additional countertop space.

Outdoor Kitchens

Brick-California-Room

This SoCal weather is nearly perfect and sunny all year long, meaning we should be taking advantage and making sure we are maximizing our space and function. Outdoor kitchens are trending in 2026 midsummer kitchen designs.

If you have the spare square footage, we suggest remodeling your outdoor area to include a kitchen with countertops, bar seating to entertain guests, an outdoor fireplace, and a sitting area. Outdoor living is here to stay!

Pops of Color

High-gloss-painted-floors

Blue is a popular color when adding color to a kitchen design. No matter what color you choose, even a pop of red, orange, green, or different shades of neutrals can go a long way in setting the tone of your kitchen design. Although white is a timeless design, colored cabinetry or tiles is a great way to add some personality to your kitchen.

Specifically in 2026 trending midsummer kitchen design, we will see more earthy colors such as coastal blues, forest greens, and browns.

Decorative Backsplashes

White Cabinetry With Gold Pulls and Knobs for Elegant Design

One of our favorite elements in a kitchen is the backsplash design. Subway tiles is a popular traditional style, but in 2026 we are seeing this being executed with larger slab pieces. Various backsplash textures and geometric shapes are also trending in this year’s kitchen backsplash designs.

Your backsplash selection matters as most often it can serve as the focal point in your kitchen. If you are looking for a more lowkey classic look, we suggest going with neutral patterns and texture. This can still be done with geometric shapes for an updated design.

Multi-Purpose Kitchen Islands

Why-you-should-build-a-kitchen-island

Kitchen islands are now a must-have in an open-concept kitchen space. They have become the focal point of the kitchen and for good reason. A multi-purpose kitchen island allows more gathering room for the family and to entertain, especially with bar seating.

Kitchen islands serve great functionality with features like island storage, electrical outlets, seating, and additional countertop space. Our favorite function is allowing the family an inclusive space to engage with each other for every meal!

As we spend more time in our homes, why not make our kitchens work for us! Thinking of remodeling your kitchen and updating your space? Do your research and take these trending midsummer tips with you as inspiration.

When you are ready to remodel your California Room, contact us at (949) 861-3400 and we will schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Related: The 8 Best Timeless Kitchen Design Ideas of 2021

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2026 Midsummer Kitchen Design Trends was last modified: January 14th, 2026 by Smart Marketing
2026 Kitchen Remodeling Trends

2026 Kitchen Remodeling Trends

Rustic-kitchen-island New year, new kitchen! Or at least that’s how it goes right? It’s finally 2026 which means it’s time to make that dream kitchen of yours come to life. Whether you’re spending more time at home working remotely or living in a home that’s due for an upgrade, it’s the perfect time to start on gathering inspiration for your dream kitchen remodel. If you’re reading this, you’re already one step ahead of the game. Doing your research and collecting ideas for your inspiration board is a great first step! With that, let’s dive into these 2026 kitchen remodeling trends you must know about straight from our design experts at Sea Pointe Design & Remodel.

1. Double-Jointed Corner Cabinet

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This design invention will change your life. You absolutely need a double-jointed corner cabinet in your kitchen remodel. This cabinet door has hinges that allow it to be opened smoothly and fully in two simple pull motions. By opening fully, this allows you more storage space to fit and store your large pots and pans, utilizing the cabinet and corner space efficiently. There are many different cabinet styles to choose from when designing your kitchen, even with a feature like this. Some options include adding an automatic light inside the cabinet, so that when you open the cabinet door, the light automatically goes on allowing you to clearly see deep inside. We all know that big corners can be far too see in, so this light helps you to see what’s directly back there for easy access and it’s perfect for cleaning. Another great option for the double-jointed cabinet design is having a pull-out shelf with full extension. This is when the shelves inside of the cabinet pull out so that you don’t have to even reach inside to grab any pots or pans. Some options even include railings to keep everything in place and organized. From gaining 50% more of your storage space, keeping your cabinets organized, and being able to reach for what you need without getting on the floor in any weird positions that could strain your body, there are many benefits to including this 2021 kitchen remodeling trend in your dream kitchen!

2. Hidden Kitchen Features

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Three words: hidden electrical outlet. This is also a game changer in any kitchen in the 21st century where technology has taken over. We know that counterspace is extremely valuable and one way to create more is by moving your electronic appliances in cabinets where there is an electrical outlet inside. This allows you to hide your bulky appliances, while creating a sleeker countertop space and it is still accessible for easy-to-use access. Take for example this hutch with a garage door style cabinet. This is a kitchen designed and built by Sea Pointe Design & Remodel. We created the perfect spot for this toaster to live in this gorgeous white hutch where there is also an electrical outlet. This allows for easy access when making toast in the morning. With one easy pull of the cabinet, the toaster is ready for use! Of course, there are so many other appliances that you can put in a cabinet with an electrical outlet. Some other useful options are a blender or even a mixer that sits on an extendable pull-out shelf that pulls out to the countertop level for easy access. We understand that every kitchen is different, and everyone has their own practices inside their space. Our designers make sure to work with you to tailor your kitchen design perfect for your exact needs. More of our favorite hidden features that continue to trend in 2026 are the hidden refrigerator and hidden dishwasher. This hidden refrigerator pictured in the slide above is a great example of a remodel with this feature we designed and built in Dana Point of Orange County. This full-sized refrigerator is paneled to match the rest of the existing cabinetry and blend in with the kitchen design. Even the pulls match the rest of the other cabinets. This is a sleek look that we will continue to see as it never fails to bring the kitchen an overall cohesive design. Another 2026 kitchen remodeling trend is the hidden dishwasher. This design allows your dishwasher to blend in with the rest of your kitchen by hiding in your kitchen island or under your perimeter countertop. A dishwasher is a must-have in a busy home and our design experts say this trend will be here to stay in 2026!

3. Gold and White Kitchen

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White-on-white kitchens were extremely popular in 2024, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it is out of style for 2021 or ever going out of style for that matter. Our design professionals suggest that in 2026 we’re seeing a lot more kitchen designs that have a pop of color or warm wood trends. Whether that means an all-white kitchen with a pop of color for the island, hood, or backsplash, you can expect to see more kitchen designs like this. Even with a dash of bold color, we’re also noticing the trend of more gold and white kitchen designs. In 2026, many are looking to add a more luxurious aesthetic into their homes and adding a touch of gold into their kitchen design seems to do just that. Many kitchen design like this include white kitchen cabinets with gold knobs and pulls. Gold pendants are also a trending kitchen design we will see more of in 2026. Another great example of gold elements is this gold Kohler sink faucet pictured above that captivates your eyes with one glance, immediately adding elegance into this Lake Forest kitchen design we built in Orange County. Gold and white are also colors that complement different styles. They are warm enough colors that fit a rustic kitchen remodel and elegant enough for a modern kitchen of marble or traditional two-toned kitchen. Trending in 2026, a wood and gold kitchen will give you a more airy and elegant design.

4. Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design

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Among 2026 kitchen remodeling trends, expect to see more modern farmhouse kitchen designs. Adding wooden floors, rustic metals and elements into a kitchen gives it a more laid back and earthy aesthetic. However, now we are going to see this but with more of a modern twist. By adding other design elements such as marble-look-alike quartz countertops, all-white cabinets and backsplash, and hidden design features, this adds a modern touch that will give the perfect balance of charming and timeless. Pictured in the first images above, everything from the flawless wooden floors, to the gold sink, to the straw pendant lights, exemplify a beautiful farmhouse design and complemented with the white quartz countertop, white cabinets and backsplash, this kitchen design shows off the perfect definition of modern farmhouse. Swipe from the images above and you will see a stunning kitchen we designed and built in San Clemente, that flaunts a bright copper farmhouse sink and a custom wooden island bracket topped with a Taj Mahal quartzite countertop. This is another great modern farmhouse design, but with nice color! Swipe a bit further and you will come across a small but mighty modern farmhouse kitchen remodel by Sea Pointe Design & Remodel in San Juan Capistrano. The two-toned kitchen with natural wood and a smooth white quartz countertop gives it the modern touch. Using a bold blue color, this smaller kitchen is another modern farmhouse kitchen we love and will continue to see more of in 2026. Lastly, is an all-white kitchen with a bold black custom hood with a wood trim that complements the kitchen island with a matching wood backsplash on the inside. The hood is a stunning statement piece in this modern farmhouse kitchen. 2026 is the year to make your kitchen remodeling dreams come true. Take note on these 2026 kitchen remodeling trends and give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below when you are ready to schedule your complimentary design consultation with us so we can guide you through this amazing experience! More Reads >> 25 Southern California Kitchen Designs and Why We Love Them

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2026 Kitchen Remodeling Trends was last modified: January 13th, 2026 by Smart Marketing
The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Kitchen Trends in Orange County

The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Kitchen Trends in Orange County

The kitchen has officially moved past the era of stark, all-white sterility. As we look ahead to 2026, kitchen design is pivoting significantly toward warmth, character, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

In Orange County, where homeowners value sophisticated style and high-tech convenience, 2026 kitchen remodels will be a perfect blend of high-end materials, seamless functionality, and welcoming comfort.

7 Exciting Trends for Your 2026 Orange County Kitchen Remodel

Here is a detailed guide to the must-have trends defining the modern Orange County kitchen remodel.

1. The Embrace of Warm, Earthy Tones

The most significant shift in 2026 is the migration from cool white and gray palettes to a spectrum of rich, organic colors. This creates a kitchen that feels grounded, enveloping, and cozy—a true heart of the home.

Earthy tones are popular in 2026 kitchen remodeling trends

 

Warm Neutrals

Colors like mushroom taupe, greige, sandy beige, and creamy off-whites are replacing pure white as the new foundation color for cabinetry and walls.

Deep Accents

Bold accent colors are pulled directly from nature: think deep forest green, terracotta clay, olive green, and rich navy or charcoal used on islands, lower cabinets, or built-in pantries.

The Power of Wood

Lighter-stained woods, especially natural oak and walnut, are essential for adding warmth and texture, often used for floating shelves, island bases, or accent trim.

2. A Focus on Natural Materials

Homeowners are rejecting synthetic finishes in favor of materials that tell a story and connect the space to nature.

Statement Stone

Quartzite, marble, and natural quartz that feature prominent, sweeping veining and organic movement are taking center stage. The trend is moving toward honed or matte finishes rather than high-gloss polish, offering a subtle, sophisticated feel.

Stone makes a bold statement in kitchen backsplashes or island countertops

 

Artisanal Touches

Hand-formed tiles, exposed timber beams, and antique brass or iron hardware will be used to layer personality and warmth.

Exposed timber beams provide an artistic touch in this kitchen design

 

3. Backsplashes with Character

Many homeowners may still enjoy the simplicity of a subway tile backsplash. But in 2026, the backsplash is an opportunity for drama and artistic expression.

Backsplashes with character are one of the most popular 2026 kitchen trends

 

Slab Backsplashes

The most popular trend is extending the countertop material (like quartz or natural stone) seamlessly up the wall, creating a clean, monolithic, and luxurious look that minimizes grout lines.

Unique Textures

For tiled backsplashes, designers are choosing tiles with irregular shapes, highly textured surfaces (such as reeded or fluted designs), and unique glazes to catch the light and add depth.

Unique textures add depth to backsplashes in 2026 kitchen remodeling trends

 

Full-Height Impact

The backsplash is often being extended all the way up to the ceiling behind the range hood, turning the cooking area into a major focal point.

 

4. Dark Countertops for Contrast

While light, warm cabinets define the 2026 look, dark countertops are emerging to provide essential contrast and grounding depth.

Matte Black and Deep Grey

Surfaces in rich, moody black or charcoal gray stone (often in a honed or leathered finish) are being paired with the warm, light oak or taupe cabinetry to create a dynamic, balanced aesthetic.

A matte black countertop offers stunning contrast to lighter cabinets

 

Heavy Movement

Dark countertops with subtle white or gold veining will be popular, offering a luxurious yet practical surface that helps hide everyday use.

Dual-Toned Islands

Many kitchen designs include using a light, warm countertop on the main island and a dark, dramatic stone on the perimeter countertops to establish clear zones and high-impact style.

2026 kitchen remodeling trends include dual toned islands

 

5. Seamless Smart Technology and Home Automation

In tech-savvy Orange County, kitchen function is dictated by invisible integration. Smart appliances are a given; the new trend is making the tech disappear.

Integrated Appliances

Fridges, freezers, and dishwashers will feature seamless paneling that matches the surrounding cabinetry, maintaining a clean, cohesive look.

Hidden Convenience

Charging drawers, integrated power strips, voice-activated smart faucets, and interior-lit drawers and cabinets for better visibility are becoming standard upgrades.

A pop-up outlet inside a kitchen island offers hidden convenience

 

Induction Cooking

With energy efficiency and safety in mind, sleek induction cooktops are increasingly favored over traditional gas ranges.

6. Functional Storage Space is Non-Negotiable

A clutter-free, functional kitchen is the ultimate luxury, and 2026 remodels are maximizing storage in every possible way.

2026 kitchen remodeling trends include unique storage options for a clutter-free kitchen

 

The Pantry

Walk-in pantries or dedicated appliance “garages” (countertop hutches with pocket doors) are essential for hiding small appliances and food storage.

Intelligent Organization

Custom-designed interior solutions—including pull-out spice racks, deep drawer dividers for dishes, custom utensil organization, and motorized cabinet shelves—ensure every item has a specific home. Even your furry pet’s food dishes can be integrated into your kitchen design, tucked neatly away but easily reached, as evidenced by the image below.

2026 kitchen remodeling trends include integrating unique storage options into kitchen design

 

7. Open-Concept Living Redefined

While the open-concept layout remains popular for entertaining, 2026 designs introduce subtle ways to create definition. For example, kitchen islands are becoming larger and more functional, including seating for informal meals as well as providing adequate food preparation space.

An open concept kitchen layout remains popular for entertaining in 2026 kitchen trends

 

Some even incorporate multi-level surfaces for both food prep and social seating, clearly defining the “work” zone from the “social” zone.

The Time to Start Planning Your 2026 Kitchen Remodel is Now

The planning phase is the most critical step of any major remodeling project. If you envision hosting holiday dinners or simply enjoying a warm, beautifully functional kitchen in 2026, you need to start the design process today.

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, our award-winning Orange County design-build team specializes in integrating these cutting-edge trends with timeless craftsmanship. We handle everything from the initial concept design and material selection to permitting and final construction, ensuring your new kitchen is not only beautiful but flawlessly executed.

Ready to partner with the experts who can make your 2026 kitchen vision a stunning, functional reality? Simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule a complimentary design consultation today.

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The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Kitchen Trends in Orange County was last modified: December 11th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Bathroom Trends in Orange County

The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Bathroom Trends in Orange County

The bathroom is no longer just a functional space—it has fully transformed into the home’s dedicated sanctuary. As we move into 2026, Orange County homeowners are redefining luxury as well as prioritizing personal wellness, nature-inspired tranquility, and smart design.

5 Bathroom Trends to Inspire Your 2026 Bathroom Remodel

If enjoying a spa-like bathroom at home is on your mind, here are next year’s bathroom trends to keep in mind for your own remodel.

1. The Bathroom: A Wellness-Focused Sanctuary

The overarching trend for 2026 is moving the bathroom from a purely functional room to a personal wellness retreat. This means creating a space that appeals to all the senses and actively promotes relaxation and health.

Spa-Like Features

These are no longer reserved for high-end hotels or spas. Homeowners are investing in steam showers, aromatherapy diffusers, integrated sound systems, and drawers designed for organizing self-care tools.

Heated Comfort

Radiant heated floors and smart towel warmers are becoming popular upgrades, providing immediate, cozy comfort that elevates the daily routine.

Chromatherapy Lighting

Integrated color-changing LED lighting, particularly within the shower or behind mirrors, is used to set a mood, from bright morning energy to calm evening relaxation.

Lighted mirrors are popular in 2026 bathroom remodeling trends in Orange County

 

2. Nature-Inspired Design and Materials

To achieve that crucial feeling of tranquility, 2026 bathroom remodels are heavily influenced by the outdoors, blending organic textures and colors.

Warm Wood Vanities

The sterile, white vanity is being replaced by rich, natural wood tones like walnut, teak, or light oak. Fluted or reeded wood details on vanities add beautiful texture and depth.

Earthy Green and Blue Tile

These colors are dominating accent walls and shower interiors. Muted sage greens, deep emeralds, and powdery or rich navy blues connect the space to water and foliage, enhancing the spa-like atmosphere.

Earthy green tile makes a stylish accent for shower walls

 

Natural Stone

Honed or leathered natural stone, especially marble, quartzite, or limestone, with prominent, sweeping veining is preferred for countertops and shower walls, celebrating the material’s raw beauty.

Natural stone with beautiful veining makes a stunning shower wall accent

 

3. The Power of Pattern: Wallpaper and Statement Tile

Injecting personality and warmth is key. For a quick dose of style or high drama, modern bathroom designs often include two main elements:

Bold Wallpaper

Especially popular in powder rooms or behind floating vanities in master baths, large-scale, dramatic print wallpaper or textured natural fiber wall coverings are replacing plain painted walls to create a stunning visual effect.

Bold wallpaper behind mirrors or vanities is a 2026 bathroom trend that makes a visual impact

 

Blue and Green Tile

Blue and green tiles silently allude to the nearby ocean while making a statement with mixed tile designs.

Mixed tile designs make a bold statement in 2026 bathroom remodels

 

4. Luxurious and Functional Water Features

The shower and tub are the centerpieces of the wellness-focused bathroom, featuring both high-tech functionality and a sculptural presence.

Soaking Freestanding Tub

The deep, sculptural freestanding soaking tub remains a centerpiece. Shapes are trending toward more organic, curved silhouettes, often placed away from the wall to emphasize their form.

A freestanding soaking tub makes a centerpiece in 2026 bathroom remodeling trends

 

Soaking tubs add a stylish element to bathroom designs for 2026

 

The Waterfall Shower

Rain showerheads, particularly those mounted high to mimic a cascading waterfall, are a must-have for an immersive, luxurious shower experience. Look for large-head, ceiling-mounted designs often combined with body jets and handheld sprayers.

Open Concept & Curbless Showers

The curbless shower is essential for accessibility and a clean, modern aesthetic. When combined with full-height glass, it allows the eye to travel uninterrupted, creating an open concept “wet room” feel that makes the entire bathroom feel larger and more expansive.

Open concept showers make the bathroom feel larger

 

Curbless showers are more accessible and are a popular 2026 bathroom remodeling trend

5. Optimized Personal Spaces

The 2026 bathroom remodel is tailored for individual routines, demanding specialized, integrated features.

Dedicated Makeup Vanity

In master suites, dedicated seated makeup vanity areas are being integrated into the main vanity space. These feature excellent task lighting (often integrated LED around a smart mirror), lower counter height, and dedicated storage for beauty tools and products.

A dedicated makeup vanity provides dedicated space and storage for beauty products

 

Invisible Storage

Clutter is the enemy of calm. Floating vanities with integrated or handleless drawers, recessed storage niches in the shower, and mirrored medicine cabinets that are flush with the wall are all used to keep countertops clear and the space serene.

An open concept bathroom makes the space feel larger than it is

 

Start Planning Your 2026 Bathroom Remodel Today

A high-quality bathroom remodel, particularly one that incorporates custom finishes and wellness technology, requires a significant planning and design phase. To enjoy your beautiful, spa-like sanctuary in 2026, the time to begin is now.

At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we are Orange County’s leading design-build firm, specializing in creating custom, luxurious bathrooms that blend these defining trends with superior craftsmanship. Our integrated approach ensures a seamless process from the first design sketch to the final installation of your curbless shower and soaking tub.

Let us transform your existing bath into the stunning, personalized wellness retreat you deserve. Simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule a complimentary design consultation today!

Let's Discuss Your Next Project!

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The Ultimate Guide to 2026 Bathroom Trends in Orange County was last modified: December 11th, 2025 by Smart Marketing
2026 Home Remodeling Trends in Orange County

2026 Home Remodeling Trends in Orange County

Orange County, known for its perfect blend of coastal beauty and sophisticated luxury, is always at the forefront of design. As we look ahead to 2026, home remodeling trends here are blending timeless Southern California vibes with fresh, forward-thinking design. That’s because homeowners in cities like Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, and beyond are prioritizing spaces that feel luxurious yet livable—spaces that reflect personality while embracing technology, wellness, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

7 Orange County Remodeling Trends to Watch for in 2026

Whether you’re planning a kitchen refresh, a primary bathroom overhaul, or a whole-home transformation, here’s what’s shaping 2026 home remodeling trends in Orange County.

1. Dark Woods and Walnut Cabinetry Take Center Stage

In 2026, dark woods, especially rich walnut cabinetry and accents, are making a bold comeback. Walnut’s deep, chocolatey tones bring warmth, sophistication, and a touch of mid-century modern flair to kitchens, built-ins, libraries, and other living spaces. This is perfect for Orange County homes as the natural grain and earthy depth of walnut balance our bright coastal light, creating contrast without feeling heavy.

In this Laguna Hills kitchen remodel, for example, the lower walnut cabinets provide a stunning contrast to lighter upper ones, beautifully tied together with a Precious Stone backsplash that has both an earthy and luxurious feel.

Dark woods and walnut cabinetry are part of the 2026 home remodeling trends in Orange County

 

2. The Enduring Allure of the Coast: Coastal-Inspired Designs Stay Strong

It’s no surprise that in Orange County, a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean, coastal design is not going anywhere. However, the style is evolving from rustic shiplap to refined tranquility.

Coastal designs and color palettes continue to be popular in 2026 home remodeling trends

The 2026 coastal look is refined and textural with:

  • Natural Textures: Think linen, rattan, light oak, woven materials, and organic shapes.
  • Muted Palette: While light and airy remains essential, the palette moves away from harsh whites to softer, warmer neutrals like sandy beiges, oyster grays, and pale blues/greens that mirror the ocean and sky.
  • Focus on Light: Maximizing natural light remains paramount, often achieved through oversized windows and strategically placed skylights.

Coastal designs and colors are popular remodeling trends for kitchens and bathrooms in Orange County

 

3. California Rooms: The Ultimate Indoor-Outdoor Living

Orange County’s incredible climate is its best asset, and 2026 remodeling designs will continue to be focused on blurring the lines between the interior and exterior.

The Dedicated California Room

This is more than just a covered patio; it’s a fully functional extension of the living space. Equipped with heaters, fans, cozy furniture, built-in entertainment centers, and often an outdoor kitchen or fireplace, the California Room becomes a primary gathering area for much of the year.

Dedicated California rooms are popular in home remodeling trends for 2026

Bi-Fold and Sliding Glass Doors

Large-format glass door systems that fully retract (bi-fold, multi-slide, or pocket) are essential for new remodels. They allow an entire wall to open up, instantly connecting the kitchen or living room to the backyard.

Bi-fold doors make indoor-outdoor living easy with a California room

 

4. The Smart Home Evolution: Technology and Automation

Home technology is no longer a gadget add-on; it’s a seamless, integrated component of the home’s infrastructure.

Smart home technology is now a part of a home's infrastructure

 

Integrated Automation

Homeowners are looking for centralized systems that control lighting, climate, security, and entertainment through a single interface. The goal is efficiency and convenience, with settings programmed to match a family’s daily routine.

Wellness Tech

Automation will directly tie into wellness, controlling things like air purification systems, specialized lighting (circadian rhythm lighting), and automated window coverings for light control.

Hidden Technology

Orange County remodelers are mastering the art of the invisible smart home—speakers hidden in walls, motorized lifts for televisions, and outlets or charging stations seamlessly integrated into drawers and countertops to maintain a clean aesthetic.

Hidden technology is one of the 2026 home remodeling trends in Orange County

A hidden pop-up outlet in a kitchen island stows away neatly out of sight when not in use

What’s the ultimate goal? Technology that enhances your life without stealing the spotlight.

5. A Sanctuary at Home: Wellness Design and Spa-Like Bathrooms

The home has become a primary retreat, and wellness is dictating design choices, including the rise of spa-like bathrooms. This trend is all about creating a personal, luxurious oasis.

Spa-like bathrooms are a popular home remodeling trend in Orange County

Key features include:

  • Soaking Tubs: Deep, sculptural freestanding tubs become a focal point, often nestled near picture windows for inspiring views.
  • Steam Showers: Larger, curbless showers with multiple showerheads, body sprays, and built-in benches, often incorporating chromotherapy (colored light) or aromatherapy.
  • Natural Materials: Using materials like natural stone, smooth pebbles, and rich wood accents to evoke a sense of calm and nature.

Spa-like features turn a bathroom into an oasis at home

Everyday life is busy enough these days … Why not feel the relaxation and rejuvenation of a spa treatment without ever leaving home?

6. Future-Proofing Your Home: Aging-in-Place Design

Kitchen remodeling trends in Orange County favor features that make aging-in-place possible

 

Aging-in-place design is rapidly moving from a niche consideration to a standard best practice for long-term homeowners. It’s about designing a comfortable home you can safely enjoy long into your golden years.

Built in shower benches and wall niches are often included in aging-in-place designs

2026 remodeling trends focus on stylish but functional features like:

  • Curbless showers for safe and easy access
  • Built-in shower benches with stunning tile work
  • Hand-held showers
  • Reinforced walls behind shower tiles to allow for future grab bar installation
  • Varying counter heights, including a lower counter in the kitchen or bathroom
  • Wider doorways disguised as architectural details
  • Pull-down cabinetry and touch-to-open drawers
  • Slide-out cabinets
  • Wheelchair-friendly living spaces

Stylish but functional features in the kitchen make aging-in-place comfortable and possible

These upgrades let homeowners stay safely and comfortably in their homes longer without sacrificing style.

7. More Than Just a House: Warmth, Personality and Character in Every Room

The trend of sterile, all-white minimalism is yielding to a desire for homes that feel curated, lived-in, and full of character.

2026 home remodeling trends include designs that add personality and character

Picture features like these:

  • Vintage-inspired lighting
  • Custom millwork and unique range hoods
  • Bold wallpaper or rich paint colors
  • Gallery walls with mixed-frame art
  • A mix of styles to create complexity and depth
  • Custom-made artistic features that are purely for decoration or serve multiple functions

Unique flooring adds character and personality to any room

In this Tustin kitchen remodel, for example, a custom-crafted metal screen integrated into the wall infuses the space with character. It acts as both a striking artistic feature and an architectural statement that gives this kitchen a personal and one-of-a-kind appeal.

Custom features add a one-of-a-kind appeal to remodeling projects in 2026

The idea of this remodeling trend is to create spaces that tell a story, feeling like a collection of beautiful, personal items rather than pieces ordered straight out of a catalog.

Orange County Remodeling with Sea Pointe Design & Remodel

The future of Orange County remodeling is luxurious, smart, and deeply personal. Whether you’re ready to design the ultimate California room, plan a spa-like master retreat, or integrate rich walnut cabinetry into your kitchen, now is the time to secure your design team and begin the planning process.

Don’t wait until 2026 is here to start your remodeling journey. Simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule a complimentary design consultation and let’s work together to design and build a space you’ll love for years to come!

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2026 Home Remodeling Trends in Orange County was last modified: January 14th, 2026 by Smart Marketing