8 Summer Home Trends That Will Get Buyers Talking

1. Louder color schemes

Houzz reports that online searches for “color drenching” have quadrupled over the last year. This technique is where the same color is used on the walls, trim and furniture. These “immersive, mood-setting environments” offer more personality for a space. “Monochromatic color schemes use variations of a single hue, while analogous color schemes utilize three or more colors that are next to each other on the color wheel,” Houzz notes in its report.

2. Wood-drenched spaces

Natural materials are being incorporated in bigger ways around the home. Online searches are skyrocketing for “living rooms with light hardwood floors,” “wood-paneled offices,” “woven wood shades” and white oak storage solutions, such as kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities.

3. Vintage style

More homeowners are seeking to “bring authenticity, charm and character to their spaces,” Houzz’s report notes, adding that a sense of nostalgia invites rooms “that feel as storied as they are stylish.” This may explain why searches on Houzz have risen for “vintage bathroom vanities,” “vintage living rooms” as well as for china cabinets and hutches.

4. Warm metal accents

“Copper pendant lighting,” “gold bathroom vanity lights,” “brushed gold bathroom faucets” and “gold lamps” add some sparkle to home interiors, Houzz says. Copper kitchen sinks and range hoods also are gaining more attention for a “glam-meets-industrial look,” according to the report.

5. French country

This style is seeing an uptick in interest lately, led by “French country bathrooms,” “French country chandeliers” and “modern French country kitchens,” based on online search data. Houzz notes that the style can help soften a space, especially when combined with signature elements of floral wallpaper and charming cottage-core details.

6. Beverage stations

Online searches for “dedicated whiskey bars,” “coffee bars,” “beverage and wine fridges,” “small wet bars” and “beverage bars” are increasing, reflecting a desire for accessibility but “visually appealing” drink setups, Houzz says.

7. Fun zones

More homeowners are prioritizing areas designed for downtime, creativity and fun, with online searches surging for activity areas including putting greens, Lego rooms, billiard rooms and video game rooms. Also, “poker tables” and “game tables” are seeing an uptick in homeowner interest, Houzz says.

8. Low-water landscaping

Whether driven by water shortages or a desire for less yard maintenance, homeowners are looking for solutions to embrace a low-water landscape. Houzz reports that “succulent garden” searches have tripled over the last year, while “Mediterranean gardens and landscapes” have doubled. Homeowners also are searching for practical solutions like “decomposed granite landscapes” to embrace sustainability for their landscapes.