7 Home Appliance Trends That Will Be Everywhere in 2026—From Sculleries to Saunas

From coffee stations to infrared saunas, the right appliances can transform a home from boring to beautiful—and functional. However, with new trends emerging every year, it can sometimes feel difficult to keep up. Eye-catching finishes and innovative technologies revolutionize modern appliances every year—but where should you start?

To help demystify the landscape, we spoke with interior designers about the seven home appliance trends that they predict will make waves next year. And while trends don't have to be followed exactly, their suggestions will certainly offer ample inspiration for an interior refresh.

Panel-Ready Finishes

Gone are the days of stark white fridges and stainless-steel dishwashers that stick out like sore thumbs. Next year, people will take a more discreet approach to their appliances.

"Homeowners want a clean, built-in look, so panel-ready appliances—like fridges and dishwashers that match cabinetry—are gaining popularity for their sleek, integrated aesthetic," says Barbra Scarpulla, designer and project manager at Brattesani Designs.

To make sure the appliances are truly concealed, it's best to match the panel finish to whatever stain or paint is already in your kitchen.

Beverage Zones

Whether it's a coffee station or mini bar, beverage stations will continue to gain popularity 2026—but not where we're used to. They've migrated from the kitchen to other areas, like home gyms and primary bedroom suites.

"Included in these centers can be small sinks with dispensers for chilled [or] filtered water, wine storage, refrigeration, and freezer units—especially under-counter units," says Mick De Giulio, kitchen designer and founder of De Guilio Design.

Similarly, Scarpulla finds that bar fridges and built-in ice makers are becoming must-haves. "They free up space in the main refrigerator and create a convenient drink or hosting station—perfect for open-concept kitchens," she says.

Water Filtration Systems

Increased health and wellness awareness from the younger generations is driving the demand for advanced water filtration.

"As more people become conscious of possible contaminants and seek environmentally friendly alternatives to bottled water, these systems become appealing," says interior designer Hillary Matt. "I suggest integrating them by choosing either a point-of-use filter for the kitchen sink or installing a whole-house system that treats all the water entering the home."

Back Kitchens

Sculleries—also known as butler's pantries or back kitchens—have been around for decades. However, they're seeing a resurgence as people seek to minimize their mess.

"These can be equipped with everything from dishwashers and cooktops to ovens and refrigeration, as well as being great places to house small appliances, like coffee makers and food processors," says De Guilio. "All [of this] serves to keep the main kitchen looking clean, organized, and able to accommodate entertaining."

Infrared Saunas

In the same vein as water filtration systems, infrared saunas will hit the mark for those who are prioritizing health and wellness next year. "People can integrate these saunas into their homes or outdoors by repurposing spare rooms, powder rooms, or basement corners," says Matt.

Ranges as Focal Points

Ranges and exhaust hoods aren't purely practical. Next year, people will use them as an opportunity to introduce character in their kitchens.

"[There is a] growing demand from designers and clients for [more] artistic detailing, like ranges in sleek sculptural profiles, available in an array of colors and mixed metal finishes," says De Giulio. "Along with ranges comes the need for better exhaust and ventilation and expanded versions of decorative hoods, which also offer a great opportunity for artistic expression."

Induction Cooktops

Cooking over an actual flame might not feel replicable by technology, but modern induction cooktops are catching up.

"Over time, they have proven to be a highly effective choice thanks to safety, ease of cleaning, and exceptional responsiveness across temperature settings," De Giulio says. "[This makes] them an easy transition for those who are accustomed to gas cooking."