Introduction

Landscaping is evolving faster than ever. As climate conditions shift, technology advances, and homeowners demand more from their outdoor spaces, landscape design in 2026 will look very different from what it was just a few years ago.

For Salt Lake City homeowners, these changes are especially important. Utah’s high-desert climate, water conservation concerns, freeze-thaw cycles, and growing emphasis on outdoor living are shaping how landscapes are designed, built, and maintained.

So, what will landscaping trends look like in 2026? This guide breaks down the most important trends shaping residential landscapes, explains why they matter locally, and shows how homeowners can plan ahead to stay current and add long-term value to their property.

Why Landscaping Trends Matter in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City sits at the intersection of several major design pressures:

• Limited water availability
• Extreme seasonal temperature swings
• Strong sun exposure
• Growing demand for low-maintenance outdoor spaces

Trends aren’t just about aesthetics anymore. In 2026, landscaping trends will focus on function, resilience, efficiency, and lifestyle integration, especially for homeowners who want their outdoor investments to last.

Trend #1: Water-Wise and Climate-Adapted Landscaping

Water-conscious landscaping will continue to dominate in 2026, but it will look far more refined than traditional xeriscaping.

Instead of bare gravel yards, homeowners are choosing:

• Drought-tolerant plant palettes
• Native and adaptive species
• Layered planting beds that retain moisture
• Reduced turf zones instead of full lawn removal

In Salt Lake City, landscapes that balance greenery with water efficiency will be the new standard, not the exception.

Why this trend is growing:

• Water restrictions
• Rising utility costs
• Environmental awareness
• Improved plant availability

Trend #2: Outdoor Living Rooms (Not Just Patios)

By 2026, patios alone won’t be enough. Homeowners want fully defined outdoor living rooms.

These spaces often include:

• Covered patios or pavilions
• Integrated seating and fire features
• Outdoor kitchens or prep areas
• Weather-rated furniture and finishes
• Lighting designed for nighttime use

Salt Lake City homeowners are extending the usable season of their yards by designing spaces that feel like true extensions of the home.

Trend #3: Low-Maintenance Design as a Priority

One of the biggest shifts heading into 2026 is the move away from high-maintenance landscapes.

Designs will increasingly focus on:

• Slower-growing plants
• Fewer plant varieties
• Mulched beds instead of exposed soil
• Drip irrigation systems
• Hardscapes that require minimal upkeep

This trend reflects changing lifestyles. Homeowners want beautiful yards without spending every weekend maintaining them.

Trend #4: Smart Landscape Technology

Technology will play a much larger role in landscaping by 2026.

Expect to see:

• Smart irrigation controllers that adjust to weather
• App-controlled outdoor lighting
• Zoned watering systems
• Automated timers and sensors

In Salt Lake City, smart systems help homeowners conserve water, protect plants from stress, and reduce long-term costs while maintaining healthy landscapes.

Trend #5: Purpose-Driven Yard Zones

Instead of designing one large open yard, 2026 landscapes will be broken into purpose-driven zones.

Common zones include:

• Dining areas
• Relaxation spaces
• Play areas
• Garden or grow zones
• Fire pit gathering spaces

Zoning improves functionality and makes even smaller yards feel larger and more intentional.

Trend #6: Natural Materials and Earth-Toned Palettes

Artificial-looking landscapes are falling out of favor. In 2026, homeowners are choosing materials that blend into the natural environment.

Popular choices include:

• Natural stone
• Earth-toned pavers
• Wood and composite accents
• Subtle color palettes

These materials age better and complement Utah’s mountain and desert surroundings.

Trend #7: Lighting as a Design Feature

Lighting will no longer be an afterthought.

In 2026, landscape lighting is being designed to:

• Highlight architecture
• Improve safety
• Create ambiance
• Extend outdoor usability

Salt Lake City homeowners are investing in professional lighting layouts that enhance curb appeal and nighttime enjoyment.

Trend #8: Multi-Season Interest Landscaping

Landscapes are being designed to look good year-round, not just in summer.

This includes:

• Evergreens for winter structure
• Plants with fall color
• Textural elements that stand out in snow
• Hardscapes that remain attractive year-round

This trend is especially valuable in Salt Lake City, where winters are long and visible landscaping still matters.

Trend #9: Smaller Lawns, Smarter Turf Use

Lawns aren’t disappearing, but they are shrinking.

Instead of full-yard turf, homeowners are choosing:

• Lawn only where it’s functional
• Artificial turf in high-use areas
• Drought-tolerant grass varieties

This approach reduces water use while keeping open green space where it actually matters.

Trend #10: Professional Planning Over DIY

As landscapes become more complex, professional design is becoming more important.

In 2026, homeowners are prioritizing:

• Master landscape plans
• Phased installations
• Long-term durability
• Climate-specific expertise

Professional planning reduces costly mistakes and ensures landscapes perform well in Utah’s environment.

What These Trends Mean for Salt Lake City Homeowners

Together, these trends point to one major shift:
Landscaping in 2026 is about smarter investment, not just appearance.

Homeowners who plan ahead will:

• Save on water and maintenance
• Enjoy their outdoor spaces more
• Increase property value
• Avoid redesigning in just a few years

Conclusion

So, what will landscaping trends be in 2026?

In Salt Lake City, expect landscapes that are:

• Water-wise
• Low maintenance
• Technology-enhanced
• Designed for real-life use
• Beautiful in every season

The future of landscaping blends sustainability, comfort, and thoughtful design into outdoor spaces that truly support modern living.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are landscaping trends important to follow?

Trends help guide smart design decisions, but the best landscapes balance trends with functionality and climate suitability.

Will water-wise landscaping still look green in 2026?

Yes. Modern water-wise designs use a mix of drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation to stay lush without excess water.

Is professional landscape design worth it?

Yes. Professional planning helps homeowners avoid mistakes and create landscapes that last through Utah’s seasons.

Are smart irrigation systems expensive?

Upfront costs exist, but they often pay for themselves through reduced water use and healthier plants.

Will lawns disappear completely?

No. Lawns will be used more intentionally, focusing on function rather than covering entire yards.

Can older homes adopt 2026 landscaping trends?

Absolutely. Trends can be applied gradually through phased updates.