Most Wanted: 11 Home Upgrades Already Trending for 2016

Shower Power

1/11

Homeowners are pairing large walk-in showers with separate freestanding tubs, creating an in-home spa experience rather than just a plain old bathroom. Barrier-free showers with glass walls will reign supreme, partially because of their beauty but also due to their safe and smart design, perfect for young and old alike.

Zillow Digs home in Phoenix, AZ

Mixed Metals

2/11

Stainless steel was the go-to metal for many years, and gold accents rose to popularity last year. Copper had its fifteen minutes of fame as well. But we’ll likely see homeowners mixing and mingling metals all together in their renovation projects in the upcoming year. The more bling, the better!

Zillow Digs home in Johns Island, SC

Shape Up

3/11

We've seen geometric designs all over the home during the past couple of years, and they will continue to permeate the market, with hexagons in particular beginning to take center stage. Geometric tile backsplashes as well as textiles and tile floors will break out on the scene.

sisterssuitcaseblog.com

Effortless Style

4/11

Homeowners are beginning to replace their old countertops with quartz, thanks to its virtually maintenance-free surface. It is resistant to stains and scratches, and can be wiped clean with soapy water. Like granite, there are a wide variety of different colors to choose from, which means it will match any kitchen style.

Zillow Digs home in Tucson, AZ

A Pretty Penny

5/11

Penny tiles have been around for decades, but in recent years they had fallen out of favor. These days, the tile has gained a newfound popularity for its retro appeal. They are covering surfaces from shower walls to floors, countertops and even bathroom ceilings.

Zillow Digs home in Phoenix, AZ

Brass Tacks

6/11

Brass accents have become more popular over the past few months, but we’re not talking about those old brass doorknobs from the ‘70s. Instead, a new fresh generation of brass will be popping up on light fixtures, kitchen hardware and even furniture.

Zillow Digs home in San Jose, CA

Statement Pendants

7/11

Chandeliers have long been the light fixture of choice, but unique pendants may give them a run for their money in 2016. We’ll see homeowners installing single pendants with bold colors and shapes, and multiples of them in larger spaces, such as above the kitchen island or breakfast bar.

Zillow Digs home in San Francisco, CA

Artisan Goods

8/11

Handmade, eclectic goods from artisans around the world will become more popular in 2016, as decor enthusiasts strive to fill their space with unique pieces. Expect large retailers to partner with makers to accommodate the growing demand for one-of-a-kind goods.

tenthousandvillages.com

Bold and Beautiful

9/11

Bold wallpaper is back on the scene in 2016, but not those flowery designs you might remember from the 1990s. Instead, homeowners can choose from trendy graphic designs, geometric patterns, and a variety of colors from dark navy blue or muted neutrals, to brilliant crimson and black. There are also a wide range of removable wallpaper designs on the market, for those who hate stripping wallpaper, when tastes change.

farrow-ball.com

Pigment of Your Imagination

10/11

Patterned encaustic tiles will be popular additions to both bathrooms and kitchens in the upcoming year. They get their color from different types of clay rather than traditional glaze, and add a warm Old World charm.

sabinehill.com

Gray Matters

11/11

White has been a popular color in every part of the house over the past few years, but in the wrong space it can look stark and uninviting. Shades of gray, however, are becoming more and more prevalent as white runs its course. People will begin using light airy grays as neutrals, while deeper shades will add a moody flair to small bathrooms or cozy bedrooms.

istockphoto.com