Top 10 Multifamily Housing Design Trends We Expect to See in 2026
By Mackenzie Collier Interiors — Multifamily Interior Designer in Phoenix, Arizona
The multifamily housing market is evolving rapidly, and 2026 will bring the most innovative design shifts we've seen in years. With renters demanding connection, comfort, wellness, and authenticity, developers must rethink what today’s communities need.
Our portfolio includes notable projects like Culdesac Tempe (the first car-free neighborhood built from the ground up in the U.S.), The Franklin clubhouse, and several community amenities across Arizona. Here are the top trends we expect to define multifamily design in 2026.
Trend 1: Community-Driven Amenity Spaces
This community club house invites renters to gather and connect.
Renters want meaningful connection, not just a gym.
Expect more:
• coworking lounges
• maker studios
• podcast rooms
• recording booths
• family play lounges
• multipurpose community rooms
Trend 2: Wellness-Focused Design (Deeper Than Biophilia)
Adding greenery instantly makes a space feel more welcoming.
2026 will expand wellness beyond plants:
• air purification
• circadian lighting
• sensory-friendly spaces
• restorative quiet rooms
• water elements for calming environments
This aligns with MCI’s long-standing sensory-forward design philosophy.
Trend 3: Flexible Unit Layouts That Adapt to Real Life
Residents need spaces that flex with their daily routines:
• murphy-bed systems
• movable partitions
• built-in WFH stations
• convertible dining/work areas
Adaptable units are the future of multifamily housing.
Trend 4: Earthy, Organic, Sustainable Materials
Renters want interiors that feel grounded and long-lasting.
Expect warm neutrals, textured finishes, and sustainability-driven materials everywhere.
The days of crisp white commercial interiors has passed, designers are moving toward more earthy finishes.
Trend 5: Outdoor Amenity Spaces With Real Functionality
Outdoor areas must be intentional—not decorative.
Think:
• shaded micro-lounges
• pet-friendly paths
• community gardens
• outdoor coworking
• immersed seating pods
Trend 6: Hotel-Inspired Lobbies + Leasing Offices
Developers are elevating first impressions.
Expect hospitality-driven design: warm lighting, curated furniture, and art programs.
Trend 7: Smarter Storage Solutions
2026 will bring more functional spaces, including:
• secure bike rooms
• package lockers
• gear storage
• drop zones and mudroom nooks
Trend 8: Technology That Blends Into the Background
Keyless entry, quiet HVAC, smart home bundles — but seamless, not flashy.
This space doesn’t look high tech, but that wall transforms into a projection screen for trivia nights, movie theme nights and other community events.
NEW FOR 2026 → Trend 9: Hyper-Local Design + Artist Collaborations
Developers are moving away from generic interiors.
2026 renters want authenticity.
Expect:
• murals from local artists
• region-specific palettes
• desert-inspired materials (Phoenix-specific SEO!)
Culdesac Tempe is a standout example of this movement.
NEW FOR 2026 → Trend 10: High-Resilience Community Design
Driven by climate awareness and long-term sustainability goals, developments are incorporating:
• drought-resistant landscaping
• water-smart amenities
• solar-integrated outdoor lighting
• heat-mitigating materials (critical in Phoenix, Arizona)
Designing for resilience is becoming a key differentiator for modern developments.
This drought-resistant landscaping outside our offices at The Mckinley Club in downtown Phoenix.
Need a Multifamily Interior Designer in Phoenix for a 2026 or 2027 Development?
Mackenzie Collier Interiors specializes in multifamily interior design in Phoenix, Arizona, with a focus on community spaces, leasing offices, amenity design, and sensory-friendly environments that support resident well-being.
We’d love to partner with your development team.
Click here to book a consultation.