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How Technology is Influencing Modern Home Design Trends

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When it comes to upgrading surfaces within the home, traditional improvements like replacing worn countertops, installing backsplashes, and restoring beautiful hardwood floors can really refresh a space.

However, new innovations in the interior design realm have begun to also introduce integrated technology as a tool to transform surfaces even further. Equipped as multi-functional areas, these additions boast smart, modern features and can elevate a home’s style and even increase its market value.

Innovative offerings include a multitude of options like touch-sensitive surfaces, built-in charging pads, and programmable embedded lighting. Paired with recent trends in material choices and finishes, construction companies may see a gradual upswing in integration installations for both new home builds and renovation projects.

According to the Smart Energy Consumer Collaborative, 41.3% of US households currently have some form of smart home technology; meaning it already utilizes at least one smart device. When it comes to upgrades being performed throughout the house, it is expected that by the end of 2025 that 3 in 5 US consumers will consider or include some form of technology to enhance surface areas within their home.

Choosing a New Look

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Patterns, styles and cut choices are always changing, but these trends are often influenced by discoveries in material science as well as societal preferences. It also comes down to a consumer’s personal tastes, but those hoping to select a style that will stay favorable in the coming years should consult a design professional.

Kristie Behnke, a Countertop Specialist and Design Consultant at Darboy Stone, Inc. has seen a lot of changes in style trends over the years, particularly when it comes to natural materials.

“Right now, a lot of people are asking for lighter-colored countertops, typically with a simple pattern,” she said, “this is one reason why quartz is so popular right now, in addition to its low maintenance requirements.”

Quartz countertops are made from crushed quartz, pigments, and resins and are a go-to choice, especially for kitchen surfaces, home bars, and bathroom vanities. Not only is the material versatile for accentuating the overall look of a room, but it is durable and far easier to maintain.

Material-wise, Behnke said there has been a 50/50 split between both quartz and granite selections, noting that homeowners opt for granite for countertops when they desire more diverse colors and patterns – and there’s dozens on the market!

From simple beiges to deep sienna’s, sleek blacks and soft pinks, down to shades of greens and blues, the color of the granite depends on the amounts and what type of minerals it contains.

When customers are deciding on a design for surface projects, they may order granite if they are looking for a truly unique look. Because granite, which can be solid, marbled, or even speckled, is formed naturally by geological processes, there is a lot of variety in the material.

Regardless if a customer selects quartz, granite, or another stone for their project, style preferences have seemed to fluctuate quite a bit.

“In the last several years there have been a lot of whites and grays everywhere,” said Behnke, “but recently we have seen a shift back to warmer tones and pops of dark colors.”

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Since color is often the main component to highlighting a room’s style, consumers should also consider a materials longevity and durability. Material that is appealing visually but that is also resistant to most normal wear and tear, is ideal.

When it comes to surfaces, especially in high traffic areas like kitchen or bathroom counters, it’s important to pick a material that supports the room’s function. Staining and damage can happen faster for more porous materials, especially from foods with dyes, cosmetics, and sometimes, from abrasive cleaning products or spills.

“Unless your natural stone countertop has been treated with an impregnating sealer, it requires sealing a few times a year for proper maintenance,” said  Lisa Martinek, CKBD, an Interior Design Instructor and NKBA Program Coordinator at Fox Valley Technical College.

Routine sealing is essential for maintaining some types of surfaces, but there are plenty of revolutionary options, including Dekton, where it is not necessary.

“The latest trend is materials like Dekton, an ultra-compact surface known for its outstanding durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and heat, thanks to its nonporous properties,” said Martinek.

Dekton can be installed on both indoor and outdoor surfaces and requires minimal upkeep as it is comprised of a combination of raw materials such as porcelain, quartz, and glass, yielding little porosity.

While it can have a slightly higher price tag than standard quartz or granite, Dekton is UV-resistant and will ensure that color and structure remain intact over time, making it a nominal deal.

Other organic materials like wood, specifically hard maple, bamboo, and oak, plus tops made of slate or limestone have become highly sought after by those wanting a more natural or minimalistic look.

A Surface Evolution

While customers will always have preferences for specific textures, materials, and finishes, technological advancements can bridge functionality, aesthetics, and convenience. From surfaces with embedded sensors and ambient LED lighting to smart glass that conveniently displays information, technology can sway consumer’s design plans for nearly any surface in their house.

“We have had several projects with pop-up outlets incorporated into the countertop which allows for several appliances to be used in more convenient locations,” said Behnke.

Touch-sensitive surfaces are also an excellent addition to areas like kitchens, where built-in panels double as an interactive screen. Smart countertops are made with built-in sensors that have the ability to weigh food, track items placed on them, and to suggest recipes based on detected ingredients. There is even a key integration that can replace the need for bulky appliances altogether.

“One of the more recent developments are induction heating elements being made to mount underneath porcelain countertops,” said Matt Lansing, vice president and general manager of Stone Innovations, Inc., “they allow the stove heating elements to be completely hidden; you just set your cookware over the heating elements mounted  underneath the countertop and cook away.”

Surface designs like these aren’t just for cooking, but some can help with cleaning as well. Materials like glass and tile that are made with photocatalytic coatings can repel water, prevent stains, and break down dirt thanks to chemical reactions triggered by UV light.

Beyond the kitchen, color-changing LED lights can also be built into counter spaces throughout the home to control ambient lighting. Semi-translucent stones like Onyx and

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Patagonia Quartzite makes these upgrades a gorgeous reality.

“Under counter lighting panels that shine through translucent stone  makes quite a statement!” said Lansing, “it does require that the stone is made thinner from the underside where it is installed so they have to be planned for when purchasing the countertops and having them fabricated.”

Lansing said installing these vibrant surfaces requires that the tops of the cabinets be solid in order to properly mount the light panels. He notes that the best systems are ordered ahead of time to ensure the best shape is created to match the stone.

Specially-designed surfaces can also parallel convenience with wireless charging pads being placed inside countertops, creating a clutter-free solution for charging devices.

“It all depends on the user, but technology can definitely be used to make life easier,” said Behnke.

Flooring surfaces products have advanced tremendously over the last few years, too, and with it has welcomed the concept behind smart floors. Smart floors are constructed with embedded sensors to detect movement, which is beneficial for home security, and digital controls for programmable temperature regulation.

“There are always new products coming out that surprise me each year,” said Lansing.

What is more remarkable is that technology can make surfaces throughout various areas in the home more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

“We worked on a project where we had engineered the countertops to move up and down to accommodate a wheelchair user,” said Behnke, “that was the most unique integration I’ve seen in my years at Darboy Stone.”

What’s Next in the Industry?

Long gone are the days of pea green laminate for counters and power strips filled with cords leading in every direction to various electronics. Renovating or building a home will forever continue to move ahead with solutions that are both ingenious and eye catching. But what do those in the industry foresee coming up on work orders for customers this year?

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“I think the next big thing in countertops is quartzite,” said Behnke, “Quartzite offers many lighter options with more subtle patterns than granite, as well as some unique and vibrant colors and patterns.”

Unlike quartz, which is a man-made product, quartzite forms naturally overground and has a varied look. Quartz on the other hand has a more uniform appearance which allows it to cover larger surfaces seamlessly. While quartzite is more expensive, it can take on more heat than quartz, which can only withstand up to 250°F.

Martinek feels that some of the classic materials will continue to trend or even return.

“Marble-inspired designs will continue to be popular in the quartz countertops industry,” said Martinek, “another trend making a comeback is the use of full backsplashes where the same countertop material is extended into the wall replacing traditional tile.”

When it comes to design, Lansing said there is always something new to incorporate when altering a home’s design.

“People want to feel a connection to the surfaces in their homes and will pick materials that make them feel good,” Lansing said.

Alongside beautifully-crafted counters and styled floors, the integration of technology can help transform any house into a home. Together, it can inspire convenience, efficiency, automation and comfort and in the world of design, it’s all personalized.

“Visit a nearby countertop showroom; we’re lucky to have so many in our area,” advises Martinek, “speak with the experts, and they’ll guide you to the perfect product for your lifestyle and budget.”