PNW Home Styles to Watch

🌿 PNW Home Style Watch: The Timeless Comeback of Tradition (with a Twist)

If you’re dreaming of a home that feels classic, cozy, and unmistakably Northwest, 2026 design trends are speaking your language. According to the latest data from Houzz, next year’s homeowners are turning back to timeless design — with warm woods, handcrafted details, and natural materials taking center stage. Think English countryside charm meets Pacific Northwest calm.

Here’s what’s trending (and what to watch for as you tour homes around Snohomish County this year):

🏡 The Return of Traditional Design

Traditional is having a moment — especially with a Tudor twist. Expect to see rich wood tones, inset cabinetry, arched range hoods, and those charming plate racks that bring instant warmth to a kitchen. Throughout the home, details like scalloped edges, soft arches, and custom millwork make everything feel both timeless and handcrafted.

If you’re home shopping, take note of these subtle features — they signal a design built for longevity, not passing trends.

✨ Flat-Panel Cabinetry

Shaker-style doors may still be a classic, but sleek flat-panel cabinetry is rising fast. The smooth, unframed look gives kitchens and baths a refined, modern edge while staying easy to clean — a must for busy households.
Whether you’re exploring a new build in Lake Stevens or a remodel in Everett, look for that combination of minimalism and warmth that defines today’s PNW aesthetic.

🪵 Built-Ins That Do It All

Built-in cabinetry is having a serious glow-up in 2026. Beyond extra storage, these multifunctional “cabinet walls” can display art, hide clutter, and maximize every inch of space — especially in smaller homes or condos.
Pro tip: buyers love them, too. They add value, character, and a sense of permanence that makes a home feel curated and complete.

🪨 Natural Stone Accents

Quartzite, marble, soapstone — these are the new luxury staples. They bring that “quiet elegance” designers rave about, pairing beautifully with wood cabinetry and earthy color palettes. You’ll see more natural stone in kitchens, baths, and even fireplace surrounds, adding texture and organic warmth to modern spaces.

♟️ Checkers Make Their Move

The checkerboard floor is back — and it’s not just black and white anymore. Homeowners are playing with color: sage, oxblood, burgundy, and emerald are all showing up underfoot. It’s vintage flair with a fresh twist — perfect for those older Craftsman homes that dot Snohomish and King counties.

🚰 Wall-Mounted Faucets

Small bathrooms just got smarter. Wall-mounted faucets free up counter space and make cleaning easier (no more grime behind the faucet!). They also lend a sleek, spa-like vibe — an upgrade worth noting during your next open house visit.

💎 Art Deco Revival

Bold shapes are back — chevrons, sunbursts, zigzags, and metallics are making a comeback in lighting, tile, and hardware. It’s a look that feels both glamorous and grounded, especially when mixed with jewel tones and rich textures.

🌞 Warm Yellows & Earthy Hues

Say goodbye to bright citrus tones — this year it’s all about ocher, topaz, and honey. These deeper yellows pair beautifully with rust, caramel, and burgundy for a cozy, inviting feel. Perfect for those gray PNW days when you need a dose of sunshine inside.

🌿 Outdoor Garden Rooms

One of the most exciting trends for our region — the garden room. It’s not an actual room, but a series of outdoor “zones” designed for living: a dining patio, reading nook, play lawn, or garden — each framed by lush greenery.
This layered approach creates a sense of discovery, even in compact yards — a big plus for today’s Snohomish County buyers who want both connection to nature and functional outdoor space.

💬 Final Thoughts

Home trends in the Pacific Northwest are leaning timeless, tactile, and personal — a reflection of how we live and what we value. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just dreaming, keep an eye out for homes that balance craftsmanship with comfort.

Looking for a home that blends character and modern livability? Let’s connect — I’d love to help you spot the details that make a PNW home truly special.