Noble and expressive materials are once again dominating contemporary architecture.
In 2026, architecture returns to its essentials. The search for more honest, warm, and lasting spaces marks the beginning of a year in which the real texture of materials regains prominence, leaving behind artificial finishes and ephemeral solutions.
Among the trends this year are the use of exposed concrete , natural wood, exposed brick, stone, and precisely applied metals. These materials, valued for their authenticity and ability to age gracefully, are becoming favorites in residential, commercial, and urban projects.
In an analysis, Architectural Digest points out that this shift responds to a profound change in user preferences, who now prioritizes visual calm, durability and aesthetic coherence over fleeting trends.
Materials
The website cites the main materials that will be trending this period, with exposed concrete solidifying its position as one of the year's major players. Its strength, versatility, and ability to function as both structure and finish make it an efficient and contemporary option, ideal for projects seeking to minimize maintenance.
It also adds that natural wood will continue to gain popularity due to its warmth and sensory appeal. Its grain, tones, and textures allow for the creation of more human-like environments, connected to nature and with better thermal performance.
Exposed brick remains a popular and accessible material with a distinctive visual identity. Its texture adds character without the need for additional coverings, making it a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing option.
Stone , and exteriors. Its presence reinforces the connection with the environment and provides thermal stability, a key value in warm climates.
Similarly, metals , especially steel and aluminum, are integrated as technical elements that contribute precision, lightness, and construction efficiency. They serve as a visual counterpoint to warmer materials, achieving a harmonious balance.
An architecture that considers time
The Architectural Digest emphasizes that this trend is closely linked to sustainability criteria. Using natural materials allows for the reduction of unnecessary processes, minimizes waste, and extends the lifespan of buildings, aligning with current environmental demands.
Furthermore, he adds that the architecture of 2026 redefines the concept of luxury. It is no longer about ostentation, but about tangible quality: surfaces that age well, spaces that breathe, and construction decisions that prioritize the inhabitant's experience.
The analysis concludes that the architecture of 2026 "returns to the essentials to build the future," opting for materials that tell the truth about what they are and that accompany the passage of time with coherence and beauty.
Source: Architectural Digest.
