Realtors® Reveal: Current Home Trends

PAR asked Realtors®, “What’s the home design trend you’re seeing everywhere?” Here’s what they said. 

Colors Everywhere 

“Color drenching and bold accent walls are showing up everywhere,” says Dominic Janidas, CCIM, 2023 president of the Realtors® Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh.  “Coupled with bold accent pieces, the rooms really become showstoppers.” 

A trend that’s gained popularity in recent years, color drenching is executed when all surfaces in a room are painted the same color, including the walls, trim and ceilings – and sometimes even the floor and furniture. 

“Popular colors include olive greens and forest greens!” Janidas notes. “Deep, rich colors are everywhere in our market, too.”  

Dopamine Décor 

“Dopamine décor and bold color,” says Trisha Fronczak, another member of RAMP. This style of decorating puts an emphasis on vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, personal touches and anything that evokes feelings of happiness 

Fronczak says she’s also seeing “biophilic and natural materials, cozy and warm minimalism, textures and textural walls, and curved furniture and sculptural pieces.” 

Contrasting Exteriors 

Maybe it’s not all rainbows and bold décor. Jane Maslowski, a member of Bucks County Association of Realtors®, notes that she’s observed more subdued exteriors. 

“I’m definitely seeing a lot of exteriors with black windows and contrasting gray or white siding,” she says, adding, “What’s rather strange is that some new construction is only doing the front windows – the rest of the house is white.” 

Converted Garages 

“The biggest ‘new trend’ I have noticed has been homeowners converting their garages into multi-functional spaces,” Dennis McLaughlin, a member of the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors®, shares. “Some have added full kitchens with all the appliances you would expect, including the kitchen sink!” 

“Many of these garages utilize garage door screens, which have been on the rise as well,” he notes. “I’ve seen others fully outfitted with gym flooring and equipment for exercise enthusiasts who want to work out while letting the outdoors in by just opening the garage door!”