If you’re planning a custom home remodel in the Cincinnati area, you may notice a clear shift in what feels fresh, inviting, and truly custom. We asked Neal's designer Cyndi Kohler for her insights about what's happening in local design trends this year. The biggest takeaway? Homes are moving away from standard templates toward warmer, more expressive choices that feel personal and lived-in.
Color is leading the charge. Cool grays and stark whites are officially fading out, replaced by warm whites, mushroom tones, taupe, clay, terra cotta, and rich browns with subtle purple undertones. These colors bring depth and comfort, especially in our Midwest light. We’re also seeing homeowners embrace “color drenching,” where a single hue saturates walls, trim, and sometimes cabinetry for a cohesive, immersive feel. Natural wood tones are now returning to the forefront, with visible grain celebrated rather than hidden. The result is spaces that feel grounded, natural, and timeless without being boring.
When it comes to kitchens, islands are still very much in demand. In fact, for many homeowners, they’re non-negotiable. Large rectangular islands remain the most popular, especially when they can accommodate seating, prep space, and storage all in one. When space is limited, islands are still making an appearance as convenient prep surfaces. Integrated appliances are also key, with dishwashers and microwave drawers topping the island wish list for convenience and a clean visual flow.
Storage has become more thoughtful and more specialized. Appliance garages are now almost expected, offering easy access to everyday tools while keeping countertops clutter-free. Many homeowners take this a step further with a dedicated pantry nook or butler’s pantry that houses beverage stations, coffee setups, or additional prep space. At the high end, we’re seeing full sculleries emerge: essentially a secondary mini kitchen with its own sink, counters, and appliances, designed to keep the main kitchen serene and guest-ready.
Details are where today’s remodels truly shine. Natural materials are showcased, not subdued, with bold wood grain and dramatic stone veining taking center stage. Curves and arches are appearing everywhere, from large architectural openings to smaller moments like shower niches or beverage stations. Accent shelving, spice ledges, and even brass gallery rails are adding both function and character. Glass cabinet doors are also evolving, with reeded, fluted, or textured glass replacing standard clear panels for added interest.
Range hoods follow this philosophy as well, trending simpler and more architectural. Think clean, boxy forms in plaster, marble, or subtle wood, often flanked by cabinetry when space allows.
Perhaps the most exciting shift is a move away from formulaic kitchen designs. The once-ubiquitous white shaker cabinets with a navy island are giving way to more creative, tailored solutions that reflect what homeowners actually like and their personal style. We see these trends as an opportunity to design homes that feel warm, personal, and enduring instead of simply Pinterest-worthy. In 2026, we're seeing a new philosophy when it comes to home design: the best remodels translate trends into functional spaces that feel unmistakably personal.
