The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has released new findings from its Home Design Trends Survey (HDTS), with the Q3 2026 report focusing on special-function rooms, home features, home systems and technology, and products.
Every quarter, hundreds of architecture firms share current project data to reveal new and emerging trends in residential design, providing an incisive look at the key features homeowners and buyers want. The focus of the AIA Home Design Trends Survey changes each quarter, numbered to reflect when they are released: Q1, “Kitchen and Bath”; Q2, “Home and Property Design”; Q3, “Home Features”; and Q4, “Neighborhood and Community Design.”
The Q3 2026: Home Features survey shows that homeowner interest is centered on maximizing space while maintaining flexibility, consistent with universal design principles.
Other survey highlights include:
- Outdoor living spaces, in-law suites, and additional multi-function rooms led the demand for special-function rooms. While demand for most special-function rooms increased slightly, the demand for outdoor living spaces jumped by 10% from 2025 – indicating homeowners’ desire to spend time outside, while in the comfort of their home.
- Accommodation for multiple generations, first-floor primary suites, and wider doorways topped the special features portion of the AIA Home Design Trends Survey. This indicates homeowners are investing in their homes with the intention of aging in place.
- Electric car docking stations continue to increase in popularity, along with technology-friendly systems throughout the home.
- Similar to the billing activity on the nonresidential side, residential project billings, inquiries and design contracts have been on a downward trajectory since 2022.
- Despite the overall slowdown in billing activity, residential firms in the Northeast, Midwest and South saw modest growth in billing activity in the second quarter. However, this was offset by a steep decline at firms located in the West.
See the full Q3 2026 Home Design Trends Survey on the AIA website.