Twin Cities Kitchen and Bathroom Trends to Watch in 2026
Design trends come and go, but the best ones reflect how people actually live. In 2026, we're seeing Twin Cities homeowners move toward warmer materials, smarter technology, and layouts that prioritize function alongside style.
Here's what's trending in kitchens and bathrooms across the Minneapolis south metro this year.
Kitchen Trends for 2026
Warm, Natural Tones Are Replacing the All-White Kitchen
The all-white kitchen had a long run, but homeowners are ready for warmth. We're installing more cabinetry in warm wood tones, soft greens, and rich navy blues. Earthy palettes with cream, terracotta, and warm gray are showing up in tile, countertops, and backsplashes.
Quartz Continues to Dominate Countertops
Quartz remains the most popular countertop material in the Twin Cities, and for good reason. It's durable, low-maintenance, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. In 2026, we're seeing more veined quartz that mimics natural marble without the upkeep concerns.
Oversized Islands with Seating
Open-concept living has made the kitchen island the social center of the home. Homeowners are opting for larger islands with integrated seating, prep sinks, and storage. For families in Prior Lake and Savage, the island often replaces a formal dining table entirely.
Smart Appliances and Touchless Fixtures
Induction cooktops, smart refrigerators, and touchless kitchen faucets are becoming standard requests rather than luxury upgrades. Homeowners appreciate the energy efficiency and convenience, especially in new builds and major renovations.
Hidden Storage and Clean Lines
Integrated appliance panels, pull-out pantry organizers, and handle-free cabinetry create a streamlined look. The goal is a kitchen that feels organized and uncluttered, even during busy weeknight dinners.
Bathroom Trends for 2026
Walk-In Showers Over Bathtubs
More homeowners are ditching the tub-shower combo in favor of spacious walk-in showers. Curbless shower designs, large-format porcelain tile, and frameless glass enclosures create an open, spa-like feel. This trend also aligns with accessibility and aging-in-place planning.
Statement Tile
While kitchens are getting simpler, bathrooms are getting bolder. We're seeing more patterned cement-look tile, vertical subway tile in unexpected colors, and accent walls behind vanities. Tile is becoming the centerpiece of bathroom design.
Floating Vanities
Wall-mounted vanities with clean lines and natural wood or matte finishes are replacing bulky traditional vanities. They make the bathroom feel larger and easier to clean, a practical win for Minnesota homes where winter gear tracks in.
Matte Black and Brushed Gold Fixtures
Chrome isn't going anywhere, but matte black and brushed gold fixtures continue to gain popularity. These finishes add contrast and personality, and they're available across every price point now.
Heated Floors
This is where Minnesota living meets design trends. Radiant heated floors in bathrooms are no longer a luxury splurge; they're becoming a standard request. The cost to add electric radiant heat under tile is modest ($5-$10 per square foot for materials), and the comfort factor during a Minnesota January is hard to overstate.
What This Means for Your Project
Trends are helpful for inspiration, but the best remodel reflects how you live, not just what's popular on social media. A good contractor will help you blend current design with timeless choices so your kitchen or bathroom still feels fresh years from now.
At Anderson Home Improvement, we bring samples, ideas, and honest advice to every consultation. We'll help you figure out which trends work for your home, your budget, and your style.
Curious what a 2026-inspired kitchen or bathroom would look like in your home? Reach out for a free design consultation.