As we move into 2026, Australian homeowners are rethinking what they want from their homes. A shift toward comfort, sustainability, and flexible living is shaping the next wave of home renovation trends.
With changing lifestyles, rising energy costs, and a growing appreciation for thoughtful design, renovations are becoming less about cosmetic refreshes and more about creating homes that truly support everyday life.
Here are the top home renovation trends set to define 2026, and how they can inspire your next project.
1. Smarter, More Sustainable Homes
Sustainability is becoming a key factor in renovation planning. In 2026, homeowners are prioritising upgrades that cut energy use, improve comfort, and reduce environmental impact. That means incorporating passive home principles such as improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, natural ventilation strategies, and eco-friendly appliances.
More homes are including solar power, battery systems, and rainwater solutions to reduce running costs long-term. When it comes to materials, the focus is shifting toward sustainably sourced timber, recycled products, and low-tox finishes. The modern Australian homeowner wants a renovation that feels good, and does good.
2. Biophilic Design & Nature-Inspired Interiors
One of the strongest design directions for 2026 is biophilic design, a style that connects indoor spaces with nature. After years of cool greys and stark minimalism, homeowners are embracing warmth, texture, and organic forms.
Expect to see:
- Soft, earthy colours like muted greens and clay tones
- Natural materials such as timber, stone and woven textures
- Larger windows and openings to maximise natural light
- Spaces designed with a more organic flow
This trend is especially fitting for Queensland homes, where the climate and natural environment lend themselves beautifully to indoor–outdoor living. Renovations are increasingly aiming to create calming, restorative spaces that feel grounded and welcoming.
3. Flexible, Multi-Functional Floorplans
With remote work and changing household dynamics, flexibility is more important than ever. Renovations in 2026 are focusing on multi-purpose rooms and adaptable layouts that evolve with the needs of the household.
Think:
- Living spaces that double as work zones
- Bedrooms with integrated study nooks
- Sliding partitions that convert open-plan areas into private zones
- Clever storage solutions to support clutter-free living
Rather than building more rooms, homeowners are looking to make existing spaces work harder, and smarter.
4. Outdoor Living Becomes a Priority
Queensland’s lifestyle continues to shape renovation choices. In 2026, outdoor living will remain a major focus, with a strong push toward creating functional, stylish areas that seamlessly connect with the indoors.
With more people valuing time at home, backyards are becoming true extensions of the living space. The goal is comfort, usability, and year-round enjoyment.
Popular outdoor upgrades include:
- Expanded decks and covered alfresco spaces
- Outdoor kitchens and dedicated barbecue zones
- Built-in seating, fire pits and entertaining hubs
- Landscapes designed for low maintenance and high durability
For some inspiration, explore the outdoor space we created as part of our Highvale house extension project.
5. Smart Home Technology for Comfort & Convenience
Technology is continuing to weave its way deeper into the renovation process. In 2026, homeowners will expect smarter, more intuitive homes that make everyday living easier.
Common upgrades include:
- Automated lighting and climate control
- App-connected security systems
- Smart irrigation for gardens
- Integrated audio and entertainment systems
But tech isn’t just about convenience. There’s also a rising focus on wellness, better air quality, improved ventilation, circadian lighting, and water filtration systems designed to support healthier living.
6. Warm Minimalism & Timeless Design Choices
While minimalism remains influential, it’s softening in 2026. Homeowners are moving toward “warm minimalism”, simple, uncluttered spaces layered with natural textures, soft lighting, and earthy tones. The result is a style that feels calming yet cosy, refined yet lived-in.
Timeless design choices are also becoming more appealing, particularly for homeowners thinking about long-term value. Solid timber flooring, stone benchtops, quality joinery, and subtle architectural elements are replacing fast-fashion décor choices that date quickly. The focus is on longevity, both in style and in durability.
7. Strategic Extensions, Reconfigurations & House Raising
As construction costs remain high and the property market stays competitive, families are looking for ways to gain more space without moving. In Queensland, this often means house raising, building under, reconfiguring existing floorplans, or adding thoughtfully designed extensions.
These structural renovations allow homeowners to:
- Create new living zones, bedrooms, or home offices
- Improve the flow and functionality of older homes
- Increase connection to outdoor spaces
- Maximise block potential without sacrificing yard space
For character homes and Queenslanders, raising and extending can be the ideal way to preserve charm while achieving modern practicality. As an example, take a look at our Paddington house raise project below, where we transformed a modest 1920s workers cottage into a modern family home. The owners wanted more space, more functionality, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. We delivered all of that and more through a full-scale renovation that reimagined the home from the ground up.
Looking Ahead
The home renovation trends of 2026 reflect a clear shift in how we want to live: sustainably, comfortably, and with more connection, to nature, to technology, and to the people we share our spaces with.
Whether you’re dreaming of a biophilic redesign, a smarter and more energy-efficient home, or a major extension to future-proof your family’s lifestyle, these trends offer inspiration for transforming your home into a space that truly supports modern living.
If you’re planning a renovation in Brisbane, the JM Homes team is here to help bring your vision to life with craftsmanship, expertise, and a commitment to quality.