Affordable Design Features We Love in New Homes
March 12, 2026
If you're shopping for new homes in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Yukon, Mustang, or Stillwater, one of the most exciting parts of building a home is choosing the design details that make it feel personal.
At Ideal Homes & Neighborhoods, homebuyers who wish to custom build get to experience something different than most builders offer. Instead of choosing from a few limited design packages or a small number of options, homebuyers can mix and match their selections to create a home that reflects their own unique style.
We recently spoke with some of the designers at the Ideal Design Studio to learn which stylish design features are trending in new homes across Central Oklahoma.
What Design Trends Are Popular in New Homes Right Now?
Many homebuyers today want a balance of affordable comfort, durability, and unique style. Some of the most popular trends include:
- Warm neutral color palettes
- Durable flooring that looks like real wood
- Quartz countertops with subtle movement
- Statement lighting and hardware
- Beautiful bathroom designs
- Bold accent colors for contrast
These features help homeowners create spaces that feel modern, welcoming, and timeless without requiring expensive upgrades.
Melody, Design Studio Manager
Melody is falling for textured, warm neutrals that make a home feel cozy through layered warmth.
Biscotti Backsplash
“I’m loving the new backsplash tile collection we recently added. It’s warm yet neutral. The glossy finish makes what might look rustic feel fresh. The Biscotti color is my favorite!”
Warm-Toned White Countertops
“Another favorite is the warm tones in the background color of this Lumataj quartz from MSI Surfaces. I think it stands out from other white and light quartz selections.”
Dreamy Accent Color
“Thunderous from Sherwin Williams is my favorite paint color right now. We offer this for the exterior, exterior accents, front door, and painted cabinet colors. It’s a great way to add some color to your home in a warm, subtle way that still feels neutral.”
Taylor Bowden, Design Consultant
Taylor is loving that warm tones are back in a big way because they make homes feel comfortable, inviting, and easy to relax in.
Family-Friendly Flooring
“My current favorite flooring is laminate flooring. I suggest it to all of my clients with kids and pets for its durability. My current favorite color is Toasted Timber Oak.” Not only is luxury laminate flooring durable but also very easy to clean and honestly looks so much like wood flooring that it’s hard to tell the difference.
Subtle Focal Point
“This has been my favorite backsplash for a couple of years. The Sublimity Namaste Herringbone is a kitchen focal point that’s also subtle and versatile. My favorite thing about it is its warm tones and hints of gray. It’s really adaptable to different design aesthetics.”
This kitchen backsplash tile is a perfect addition to your IDEAL custom home and can be found in some of our move-in-ready homes as well.
Favorite Fixtures
“I love Delta’s champagne bronze fixture finishes. The color elevates kitchens and bathrooms, and it can be paired with black and warm tones. My favorites are Saylor for bathrooms and Lenta for kitchens.”
Rachel Cathey, Design Studio Assistant Manager
Rachel is here for the drama: bold contrast, rich color, and statement-making details.
Glimmers of Gold
“I love the hints of gold in our Calacatta Premata® Quartz from MSI Quartz. It’s so versatile, looks great with any cabinet paint or stain color, and is a very affordable upgrade option.”
Lovely Laminate Flooring
“Lodge Hickory is one of my favorite laminate flooring options right now. I love how much character and depth this flooring has. It’s also versatile, durable, and goes with just about anything.”
Bathroom Tile that Says Spa Retreat
“I’m really loving the colors in this ‘Pigmenta’ collection of 3x8 tiles. ‘Sienna’ paired with the black fixtures is my favorite. The ‘Dye’ shade is a close second, which I love because of the variations in the shades of green. Both options feel calming and spa-like without feeling boring or sterile.”
Dark Drama
“I love this Iron Ore paint color by Sherwin Williams. It’s a fresh, soft black that has a touch of warmth to it. Whether you use it as an accent in the interior or exterior, it adds just the right amount of contrast.”
Lighting it Up
“I love this Breakfast Room light. I feel like it adds so much personality to a space. Even better, you can move each arm to customize the look you want.”
Where Can You Find New Homes in Central Oklahoma?
Ideal Homes & Neighborhoods builds communities across the Oklahoma City metro area, including:
These communities offer affordable new homes with modern design features, making it easier for buyers to build a home that fits both their lifestyle and budget.
