A new year brings new home design trends, and according to Zillow, the homes catching buyers' attention in 2027 are blending smart technology, comfort, wellness, and flexible living like never before. While buyers still want homes that are beautiful and functional, they're also looking for spaces that support their lifestyles, mental health, and even their pets.

Here's a look at the top home trends Zillow says are shaping the housing market in 2027.

1. Smart Homes... With Space to Unplug

Technology continues to play a major role in modern homes, but buyers are looking for balance.

Zillow reports mentions of AI-powered appliances have increased by 119%, while app-controlled home systems are up 34% in home listings. Smart ovens, refrigerators, thermostats, and security systems are becoming must-have features for many buyers.

At the same time, homeowners are craving breaks from their screens. Listings mentioning dedicated spaces for a "digital detox" are up 34%, reflecting a growing desire for tech-free reading rooms, meditation spaces, and quiet retreats within the home.

2. Elevated Style Is Replacing "Cozy"

For years, "cozy" was one of the most commonly used words in real estate marketing. That's changing.

Mentions of "cozy" have dropped 22%, while the word "elevated" has jumped 71%.

Homebuyers appear to be gravitating toward cleaner, more refined aesthetics. Traditional farmhouse-inspired features continue to remain popular, with painted brick exteriors up 27% and board-and-batten siding increasing by 24%.

Meanwhile, design terms like "eclectic" and "boho" are becoming less prominent in listings.

3. Practical Efficiency Over Buzzwords

Homeowners still care about energy efficiency, but they're paying more attention to tangible benefits rather than trendy sustainability terminology.

Mentions of words like "green" and "sustainable" have declined by 26%, while specific energy and comfort upgrades are gaining traction.

Features receiving increased attention include:

Whole-home battery systems (up 43%)
Battery backup systems (up 25%)
Advanced air filtration systems (up 25%)

Buyers want solutions that provide comfort, reliability, and protection during power outages while helping manage energy costs.

4. Flex Spaces Continue to Take Center Stage

The way families use their homes has changed dramatically over the past several years.

As a result, dedicated flex spaces are becoming more desirable than specialty kitchens. Zillow found mentions of chef's kitchens have fallen 21% and gourmet kitchens are down 15%.

Instead, buyers are seeking rooms that can adapt to changing needs. Mentions of flex spaces have increased 35%, while media rooms are up 37%.

Whether it's a home office, gaming room, study area, workout space, or guest room, flexibility remains a major selling point.

5. Wellness Is Moving Into the Home

One of the fastest-growing trends centers around health and wellness.

More homeowners are investing in amenities that help them relax, recover, and stay active without leaving the house.

Popular wellness-focused upgrades include:

Cold plunge pools (up 44%)
Spa-inspired bathrooms (up 60%)
Golf simulators (up 29%)
Home gyms (up 18%)

The trend reflects a growing emphasis on creating personal wellness retreats at home.

6. The "Catio" Is Officially Mainstream

Pet owners are influencing home trends in a big way.

One of Zillow's more surprising findings is the growing popularity of the "catio," a screened outdoor enclosure that allows indoor cats to safely enjoy fresh air and outdoor views.

Mentions of catios are up 32% in listings, proving that homes designed with pets in mind continue to attract attention from buyers.

What These Trends Say About Today's Homebuyers

The common thread across Zillow's 2027 trends is intentional living.

Buyers want homes that are smarter, but not overwhelming. Stylish, but still functional. Flexible enough to adapt to changing needs and equipped with features that support health, comfort, and everyday life.

From AI-powered appliances and digital-detox spaces to spa bathrooms and catios, today's most desirable homes are designed around how people actually live.

And if Zillow's trends are any indication, the homes of the future may be less about showing off and more about helping people live better every day.

Allison