The Top Trends From the Utah Valley Parade of Homes 2026
Every year, the Utah Valley Parade of Homes offers a glimpse into where home design is headed. The 2026 Utah Valley Parade of Homes featured nearly 40 homes across Utah County, showcasing everything from timeless architecture to bold new finishes.
After touring this year's homes, I noticed several recurring design elements that appeared again and again. If you're planning a remodel, building a home, or simply love keeping up with interior design trends, these are the standout ideas I expect to see everywhere in 2027.
1. Wall Paneling Is Back (And Better Than Ever)
Wall paneling was one of the most consistent trends throughout the 2026 Utah Valley Parade of Homes. From traditional board and batten to more modern slat walls and applied molding, builders are embracing texture to add character and depth to spaces. Rather than relying on paint alone, these homes used architectural details to create visual interest.
Popular places to add wall paneling include:
Dining rooms
Entryways
Bedrooms
Home offices
Hallways
This is more than the usual accent wall; this is an intentional use of architectural detailing. The result feels timeless, elevated, and surprisingly approachable for everyday homes.
2. Stone Detailing Is Becoming a Work of Art
Stone wasn't limited to countertops this year. Designers used natural stone in creative ways that made each home feel custom and luxurious.
Some of my favorite applications included:
Decorative stone backsplashes
Rounded stone corners
Stone shelving
Edge profile detailing
Instead of treating stone as purely functional, builders used it as a statement feature. This trend adds texture while creating a high-end look that still feels organic.
3. Unique Tile Layouts Are Replacing Traditional Patterns
Gone are the days of simple subway tile installed in straight rows. Throughout the parade homes, I saw creative tile patterns that transformed ordinary materials into focal points. Designers played with:
Vertical stacks
Herringbone patterns
Checkerboard layouts
Mixed tile sizes
Unexpected grout lines
Even neutral tile became interesting when installed in a fresh way like on floating shelves and inbetween thresholds.
If you're remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, changing the tile layout can make a huge impact without necessarily increasing your budget.
4. Purple Is Emerging as the Unexpected Color Trend
One surprise from the 2026 Utah Valley Parade of Homes was the appearance of purple. Not bright or overwhelming shades, but muted lavenders, dusty plums, and rich aubergine tones.
Purple appeared in:
Upholstery
Accent walls
Artwork
Decorative accessories
Bedding and textiles
These softer shades brought warmth and personality while still feeling sophisticated. After years of beige and gray dominating interiors, it was refreshing to see homeowners embracing color again.
5. Wallpaper Is Officially Here to Stay
I saw houses covered in wallpaper floor to literal ceiling, wallpaper used to create accents and wallpaper that was barely even noticable. Whatever your flavor, wallpaper is the medium. Powder bathrooms, mudrooms, offices, and bedrooms were especially popular places for bold patterns.
I noticed everything from:
Grasscloth textures
Botanical prints
Moody florals
Subtle geometric patterns
6. Wood Detailing Adds Warmth and Custom Character
Perhaps my favorite trend from this year's parade was the thoughtful use of wood detailing. Builders incorporated wood in small but impactful ways, including:
Decorative Door Cutouts-Arched and custom-shaped openings created softness and architectural interest.
Wood Toe Kicks on Vanities-Instead of standard recessed bases, many bathroom vanities featured matching wood toe kicks that made furniture pieces feel custom-built.
Integrated Millwork-Wood accents appeared throughout shelving, range hoods, ceiling beams, and cabinetry details.
These small touches made homes feel layered, intentional, and timeless.
Final Thoughts on the 2026 Utah Valley Parade of Homes
One thing I loved about this year's Utah Valley Parade of Homes was that many of the trends felt achievable.
There were definitely massive luxury features, but the homes also highlighted details that homeowners can incorporate into everyday spaces. Texture, color, natural materials, and thoughtful craftsmanship were the themes that stood out most.
If I had to summarize the overall design direction for 2026 in one phrase, it would be: Character Layering. All the charm, textures and details that make a place feel like home. And honestly, I think that's a trend worth embracing.
Which trend was your favorite?
I'd love to know whether you're team wallpaper, team stone detailing, or fully embracing the return of purple! Let me know in the comments below.
