Luxury Home Trends: What’s In and What’s Out for 2026

Expert Insights for Illinois’ Premier Markets: Naperville, Oak Brook, Hinsdale, and Chicago Suburbs

Introduction: The Evolving Nature of Luxury Home Preferences

Luxury home design in Illinois is undergoing a profound transformation. The days when opulence was measured solely by square footage, ornate finishes, or the sheer number of rooms are fading fast. Today’s affluent buyers in Naperville, Oak Brook, Hinsdale, and the broader Chicago suburbs are seeking homes that are not just beautiful, but deeply personal, wellness-focused, technologically advanced, and environmentally responsible. This shift is not a fleeting trend—it’s a reflection of changing lifestyles, generational values, and a new understanding of what it means to truly live well.

As a real estate expert with deep roots in Illinois’ luxury markets, I’ve witnessed firsthand how buyer expectations have evolved. The modern luxury home is now a sanctuary—one that supports health, fosters connection, and adapts to the rhythms of daily life. It’s about intentional design, seamless technology, and spaces that feel as good as they look. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what’s “in” and what’s “out” for 2026, with a special focus on the unique preferences and market realities of Illinois’ most sought-after communities.

What’s In: The Defining Luxury Home Trends for 2026

1. Wellness-Focused Spaces: The Rise of the Home Sanctuary

The concept of wellness has moved from the spa to the very heart of the home. In 2026, luxury buyers expect dedicated spaces that support both physical and mental well-being. This includes meditation rooms, yoga studios, infrared saunas, cold plunge tubs, and even pet spas. These features are no longer considered extravagant add-ons—they’re essential components of a restorative living environment.

Illinois homeowners are increasingly requesting wellness suites that blend seamlessly into primary bedroom wings, complete with spa-inspired bathrooms, aromatherapy showers, and circadian lighting. The focus is on creating daily rituals that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and holistic health. Even smaller homes are carving out “stillness corners” or meditation nooks, reflecting a broader cultural shift toward intentional living.

Local Insight: In Naperville and Oak Brook, where busy professionals and families juggle demanding schedules, these wellness spaces are seen as a vital counterbalance to the stresses of modern life. Builders and designers are collaborating with wellness consultants to ensure these areas are both functional and beautiful, often integrating biophilic design elements such as living walls and abundant natural light.

2. Seamless Smart Home Technology: Invisible, Intuitive, Essential

Smart home technology has matured from a novelty to a necessity in the luxury market. The latest systems are designed to be unobtrusive, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into the home’s architecture. Voice-activated controls, AI-powered climate management, and automated lighting that supports circadian rhythms are now standard expectations.

Today’s affluent buyers want homes that anticipate their needs—adjusting temperature, humidity, and air quality in real time, securing the property with discreet surveillance, and managing energy use for both comfort and sustainability. Entertainment systems, security, and even wellness features (like air and water purification) are all managed through centralized, user-friendly platforms.

Local Insight: In the Chicago suburbs, where privacy and security are paramount, smart home systems are often paired with advanced surveillance and access controls. Hinsdale and Oak Brook buyers are particularly interested in future-proofed homes—properties with robust wiring, flexible infrastructure, and the ability to adapt as technology evolves.

3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials: Eco-Elegance as the New Status Symbol

Sustainability has become a defining marker of luxury. Illinois buyers are looking beyond energy-efficient appliances to embrace whole-home systems that minimize environmental impact. This includes solar-ready roofs, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, and advanced insulation for year-round comfort.

Material choices are equally important. Reclaimed wood, low-carbon concrete, recycled steel, and locally sourced stone are favored for their beauty, durability, and reduced ecological footprint. Eco-certified textiles, non-toxic finishes, and high-performance glass further enhance both indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Local Insight: In Naperville and the western suburbs, where new construction is booming, builders are increasingly adopting green building standards. Buyers are asking pointed questions about carbon footprint, lifecycle costs, and the provenance of materials. Sustainable landscaping—using native plants, permeable paving, and organic gardening practices—is also on the rise.

4. Indoor-Outdoor Living: Blurring the Boundaries Year-Round

The desire for a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces is stronger than ever. In 2026, luxury homes feature expansive glass walls, retractable doors, and unified flooring that extends living areas into the landscape. Outdoor kitchens, covered lounges, fire features, and weather-resistant furnishings make these spaces usable in all seasons.

Designers are prioritizing panoramic views, integrated greenery, and biophilic elements that foster a sense of calm and connection to nature. In Illinois, where the climate can be challenging, features like heated patios, motorized screens, and smart shading systems ensure comfort from spring through late fall.

Local Insight: Oak Brook and Hinsdale buyers are investing in outdoor “rooms” that rival their indoor counterparts—complete with high-end grills, pizza ovens, and even outdoor wellness zones. In Naperville, where family life is central, flexible outdoor spaces support everything from quiet relaxation to large-scale entertaining.

5. Flexible, Multi-Use Spaces and Home Offices: Adaptability Is Luxury

The era of rigid floorplans is over. Today’s luxury homes are designed for adaptability, with spaces that can easily transition between work, leisure, and family life. Dual home offices, acoustic partitions, and convertible guest suites are in high demand.

Buyers want homes that can accommodate remote work, multigenerational living, and evolving family needs. This means thoughtful zoning, movable walls, and built-in storage that keeps spaces clutter-free and ready for any occasion.

Local Insight: In the Chicago suburbs, where many residents work in hybrid or remote roles, dedicated home offices with advanced technology, soundproofing, and natural light are a top priority. Naperville’s diverse population—ranging from young professionals to retirees—values homes that can flex as lifestyles change.

6. High-End Kitchen and Social Dining Design: The Heart of the Home Reimagined

Kitchens have reclaimed their role as the emotional and social center of the home. In 2026, luxury kitchens are both showpieces and workhorses, featuring statement islands, sculptural stone, and integrated smart appliances.

Open layouts are giving way to “zoned” designs, with secondary prep kitchens, walk-in pantries, and hidden storage that keep the main space pristine. Warm wood tones, expressive color palettes, and tactile materials create a welcoming, lived-in atmosphere. Dining areas are more casual, often blending with lounges or outdoor terraces for effortless entertaining.

Local Insight: In Hinsdale and Oak Brook, buyers are seeking kitchens that support both gourmet cooking and casual gatherings. Features like dual islands, professional-grade appliances, and custom cabinetry are standard. In Naperville, family-friendly layouts with ample seating and flexible dining zones are especially popular.

7. Wellness Tech and Indoor Air Quality: Healthy Homes by Design

Health and wellness are now integral to luxury home design. Advanced air and water purification systems, circadian lighting, and humidity control are becoming baseline features. Smart sensors monitor air quality and adjust ventilation automatically, while biophilic design elements—such as living walls and abundant daylight—support mental and physical well-being.

Local Insight: Illinois buyers, particularly those with young children or health concerns, are prioritizing homes with proven wellness infrastructure. Builders are responding with low-VOC materials, advanced filtration, and even “wellness certification” for new construction.

8. High-Tech Entertainment and Media Rooms: The New Social Hubs

Luxury home theaters have evolved into multi-functional media rooms that support gaming, streaming, and social gatherings. The latest spaces feature 8K visuals, immersive audio, modular seating, and smart lighting that adapts to the mood or activity.

These rooms are designed for comfort and flexibility, often doubling as family lounges or hybrid workspaces. Wellness features—such as ergonomic seating, acoustic treatments, and even air purification—are increasingly integrated.

Local Insight: In the Chicago suburbs, where winters can be long, high-tech entertainment spaces are a major selling point. Buyers are looking for turnkey solutions that blend cutting-edge technology with cozy, inviting design.

2026’s Top “In” Luxury Home Trends

Wellness Spaces: Home gyms, spa-inspired bathrooms, meditation rooms, and saunas are increasingly sought after. Buyers want spaces that promote health and relaxation.
Smart Home Technology: Integrated systems for lighting, climate, security, and entertainment are now expected in luxury homes. Voice-controlled and app-based automation is a must.
Sustainable Materials: Eco-friendly finishes, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panels are highly desirable. Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a luxury standard.
Indoor-Outdoor Living: Expansive patios, outdoor kitchens, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces are trending. Illinois buyers especially value this in suburban estates.
Minimalist Elegance: Clean lines, neutral palettes, and uncluttered spaces are replacing ornate designs. Modern luxury emphasizes simplicity with high-quality finishes.
Flexible Workspaces: With hybrid work here to stay, luxury buyers want home offices that are both functional and stylish.

Analysis:

Each of these trends reflects a broader shift toward intentional, experience-driven living. Illinois buyers are no longer satisfied with homes that simply look impressive—they want spaces that feel restorative, adapt to their needs, and support a healthy, connected lifestyle. Builders and designers who anticipate these priorities are seeing the strongest demand and the highest resale values.

What’s Out: Luxury Trends Losing Favor in 2026

As new priorities take center stage, several once-popular luxury home features are rapidly falling out of favor. Understanding what’s “out” is just as important as knowing what’s “in”—especially for sellers looking to maximize appeal and value.

1. Overly Ornate Finishes and Traditional Grandeur

Heavy ornamentation, elaborate moldings, and grandiose columns are being replaced by refined simplicity and authentic materials. Buyers now view excessive decoration as dated and impractical, preferring clean lines, natural textures, and understated elegance.

Local Insight: In Oak Brook and Hinsdale, homes with “old world” grandeur are lingering on the market unless they’ve been updated with more contemporary, streamlined finishes.

2. Formal Dining Rooms and Rigid Floorplans

The era of the rarely used formal dining room is over. Buyers want flexible spaces that can adapt to multiple functions—work, play, entertaining, or relaxation. Rigid, single-purpose rooms are being reimagined as open, adaptable zones.

Local Insight: In Naperville, sellers are converting formal dining rooms into libraries, home offices, or casual lounges to better align with buyer expectations.

3. Cold Gray Interiors and Minimalism Extremes

The once-ubiquitous “millennial gray” palette is now seen as cold and uninspiring. Buyers are gravitating toward warmer neutrals, earthy tones, and layered textures that create a sense of comfort and personality.

Local Insight: In the Chicago suburbs, homes with stark gray interiors are often the first to be updated by new owners. Warm whites, taupes, and clay-inspired hues are the new go-to choices.

4. Mass-Produced Decor and Copycat Furniture

Cookie-cutter furnishings and generic decor are losing ground to handcrafted, artisan-made pieces that tell a story. Buyers want homes that reflect their individuality, not a catalog page.

Local Insight: Hinsdale and Oak Brook buyers are investing in custom millwork, vintage finds, and locally sourced art to create spaces with soul and authenticity.

5. All-White Spaces and Glossy Finishes

Sterile, all-white interiors and high-gloss surfaces are being replaced by tactile materials, matte finishes, and layered color palettes. The goal is a home that feels lived-in, not staged.

6. Open Concept Without Zoning

While open layouts remain popular, the lack of defined zones for privacy, work, or relaxation is now seen as a drawback. Buyers want spaces that flow, but also offer moments of retreat and separation.

7. Fast Furniture and Matching Sets

Disposable, mass-produced furniture and perfectly matched sets are out. Buyers are seeking quality, longevity, and the unique character that comes from mixing styles, eras, and materials.

2026’s “Out” Luxury Home Trends

Overly Ornate Finishes: Heavy drapery, gold accents, and elaborate moldings are being replaced by sleek, modern aesthetics.
Formal Dining Rooms: Many buyers prefer open-concept layouts with versatile dining spaces rather than rooms reserved for special occasions.
Excessive Square Footage Without Purpose: Buyers now prioritize functional layouts over sheer size. Wasted space is seen as impractical.
Traditional Media Rooms: Dedicated theater-style rooms are losing appeal; buyers prefer multi-use entertainment spaces with flexible design.
High-Maintenance Landscaping: Expansive lawns requiring constant upkeep are less attractive compared to sustainable, low-maintenance outdoor designs.

Analysis:
These “out” trends reflect a broader rejection of impersonal, impractical, or overly staged design. Today’s luxury buyers in Illinois want homes that feel authentic, adaptable, and deeply connected to their own stories and values.

Local Market Insights: Illinois Luxury Buyers and Sellers in 2026

Market Overview: Pricing, Inventory, and Mortgage Impact

The Illinois luxury market in 2026 is characterized by stability, modest price growth, and a gradual increase in inventory. After several years of rapid appreciation, home prices are leveling off, creating a more balanced environment for buyers and sellers alike.

Pricing: Median sales prices in the Chicago metro area and top suburbs continue to rise, but at a slower pace—typically 2-4% year-over-year. In Naperville, for example, the median sale price reached $665,000 in mid-2025, with forecasts suggesting continued but moderate growth into 2026.
Inventory: The number of homes for sale is gradually increasing, giving buyers more options and reducing the prevalence of bidding wars. This shift is especially notable in high-demand suburbs like Oak Brook and Hinsdale.
Mortgage Rates: Interest rates remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic lows, hovering in the low-to-mid 6% range. While this impacts affordability, the stability of rates is providing buyers with greater confidence and predictability.

Local Insight:
Buyers in Illinois’ luxury markets are more discerning than ever. They’re willing to pay a premium for homes that are move-in ready, thoughtfully designed, and equipped with the latest wellness and technology features. Sellers who invest in strategic updates—especially those that align with the “in” trends outlined above—are seeing the strongest returns and the quickest sales.

Buyer Demographics and Preferences

The Illinois luxury market is increasingly diverse, with buyers ranging from young professionals and tech entrepreneurs to established families and retirees. Key drivers of demand include:

Top-Rated Schools: Communities like Naperville, Hinsdale, and Oak Brook are consistently ranked among the best for public education, making them magnets for families prioritizing academic excellence.
Lifestyle Amenities: Proximity to parks, golf courses, dining, and cultural attractions remains a top priority. Buyers want homes that support an active, connected lifestyle.
Privacy and Security: Gated communities, mature landscaping, and advanced security systems are highly valued, especially in affluent suburbs.

Seller Strategies: Staging and Design Preferences

For sellers, effective staging and design updates are critical to maximizing appeal and value. In Illinois’ luxury markets, the most successful listings feature:

Curated, Cohesive Design: Homes that tell a story—through color, texture, and thoughtful furnishings—stand out in a crowded market.
Highlighting Wellness and Tech: Staging that showcases wellness spaces, smart home features, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow resonates strongly with buyers.
Flexible Layouts: Demonstrating how spaces can adapt to work, leisure, and family life is a major selling point.

Local Resources:

Signature Staging and Chicagoland Home Staging are leading local firms specializing in luxury staging for the Chicago area.
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury offers in-depth market reports and trend analyses for high-end real estate.

Design Resources and Authoritative Sources

For those seeking further inspiration or guidance, the following resources provide expert insights and up-to-date trend reports:

Building the Future of Luxury in Illinois

The definition of luxury is evolving—driven by a desire for authenticity, wellness, sustainability, and seamless technology. In Illinois’ premier markets, buyers and sellers alike are embracing homes that support a richer, more intentional way of living. By understanding what’s “in” and what’s “out,” and by leveraging local expertise and resources, you can make informed decisions that not only enhance your lifestyle but also protect and grow your investment.

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply reimagine your current home, the trends shaping 2026 offer a roadmap to spaces that are not just beautiful, but truly life-enhancing. For personalized guidance or to explore the latest listings and design solutions in Naperville, Oak Brook, Hinsdale, and the Chicago suburbs, connect with a trusted local real estate expert who understands the nuances of this dynamic market.