Home design in East Tennessee is evolving quickly as homeowners embrace a mix of modern comfort, sustainable living, and regional charm. The mountains, lakes, and rolling landscapes inspire a unique design language that blends natural materials, advanced technology, and timeless Southern hospitality.
As we move into 2025, the focus is on personalization, energy efficiency, and lifestyle-driven design. Whether you are planning to build your dream home or refresh an existing property, understanding the latest design trends will help you make informed, inspired decisions.
Here are the top custom home design trends shaping East Tennessee homes in 2025.
1. Nature-Driven Architecture: Bringing the Outdoors In
East Tennessee’s scenic beauty continues to shape home design. Builders and architects are emphasizing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Key features of nature-driven design
- Expansive windows and sliding glass walls that frame mountain or lake views.
- Natural materials like locally sourced stone, reclaimed wood, and exposed timber beams.
- Outdoor living rooms with covered patios, kitchens, and fireplaces for year-round use.
- Biophilic elements such as indoor plants, green walls, and natural light optimization.
Why it works in East TN: The region’s climate allows for multi-season outdoor living. Incorporating natural textures and views creates a tranquil, grounded atmosphere unique to the area.
2. Modern Farmhouse: Smarter and Sleeker
The modern farmhouse trend remains strong in 2025, but with a refined, contemporary twist.
Modern farmhouse updates
- Matte black accents replace the classic brushed nickel fixtures.
- Board-and-batten siding paired with metal roofs for contrast and texture.
- Neutral palettes with pops of earthy color like sage green, clay, and deep navy.
- Simplified lines and minimal clutter bring the farmhouse aesthetic into the modern era.
Builders across East Tennessee are using this look to merge rustic warmth with clean sophistication, perfect for both urban neighborhoods and mountain lots.
3. Energy-Efficient and Net-Zero Homes
Sustainability has gone mainstream. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing energy-efficient design, driven by rising utility costs and eco-conscious values.
Sustainable trends gaining traction
- Solar-ready roofing and panels for renewable power generation.
- High-performance insulation systems such as spray foam or insulated concrete forms (ICFs).
- Smart HVAC systems that learn and adapt to usage patterns.
- Water-saving fixtures and rainwater collection systems.
Local builders are combining these technologies with East Tennessee’s natural climate advantages such as mild winters, ample sunlight, and rich greenery, to create homes that are as responsible as they are comfortable.
4. Open Yet Zoned Floor Plans
The open concept remains popular, but 2025 introduces a more nuanced approach. Homeowners still love connected living areas, but they also crave defined zones for work, relaxation, and privacy.
Examples of hybrid floor plan layouts
- Open kitchen-dining-living areas for entertaining.
- Glass-partitioned offices that allow light while reducing noise.
- Pocket doors and sliding partitions for flexible separation.
- Multi-purpose bonus rooms that can shift from gym to guest suite.
This layout evolution reflects post-pandemic lifestyles, balancing community and solitude under one roof.
5. Smart Homes That Simplify Daily Life
Smart technology is no longer an add-on. It is integral to modern living.
Top smart features in 2025 homes
- Centralized home automation systems controlling lighting, climate, and security.
- Voice-activated appliances integrated with virtual assistants.
- Smart window treatments that adjust to time of day and weather.
- Whole-home Wi-Fi mesh networks for seamless connectivity.
East Tennessee homeowners are using technology to enhance comfort while preserving the cozy, personalized feel of traditional Southern design.
6. Local Materials and Regional Craftsmanship
In 2025, there is renewed appreciation for local artistry and materials that tell a story. Builders are sourcing from East Tennessee’s own resources and craftspeople.
Popular regional materials
- Handcrafted brick and Tennessee fieldstone.
- Locally milled hardwoods for flooring and beams.
- Metalwork from regional artisans for railings and fixtures.
- Custom-built cabinetry from small workshops.
Why it matters: Using local materials supports the community economy, reduces transportation emissions, and gives your home an authentic sense of place.
For examples of how regional craftsmanship shapes stunning custom builds, explore our portfolio.
7. Elevated Kitchens and Gathering Spaces
The kitchen remains the heart of the home, but in 2025, it is doubling as the hub of technology, sustainability, and design innovation.
Trending kitchen design elements
- Hidden appliances that blend seamlessly into cabinetry.
- Quartzite and marble countertops for durability and elegance.
- Statement lighting with layered, warm LED tones.
- Butler’s pantries and prep zones to hide clutter from entertaining areas.
- Large islands with seating and power integration for family interaction.
In East Tennessee, where hosting and hospitality are a way of life, these elevated kitchens are where functionality meets southern warmth.
8. Spa-Like Bathrooms and Wellness Spaces
Personal wellness continues to influence home design. Bathrooms are now sanctuaries of relaxation, inspired by resort spas.
Features defining 2025 bathroom trends
- Freestanding soaking tubs with scenic views or privacy gardens.
- Steam showers with aromatherapy and lighting control.
- Heated flooring for year-round comfort.
- Natural textures: stone tiles, wood vanities, and organic finishes.
Some East Tennessee homeowners are even incorporating dedicated wellness rooms for yoga, meditation, or infrared saunas, creating spaces that nurture both mind and body.
9. Bold Color Statements and Textured Interiors
While minimalism still has fans, 2025 is seeing a shift toward warmth, personality, and texture.
Interior design shifts
- Earth-inspired tones: terracotta, ochre, sage, and soft charcoal.
- Mixed materials: plaster walls, woven textiles, and raw wood.
- Layered lighting: ambient, accent, and task lighting in every room.
- Wallpaper revival: nature patterns and large-scale murals make a comeback.
These choices create interiors that feel lived-in, inviting, and deeply personal, perfect for the East Tennessee homeowner who values both comfort and creativity.
10. Multi-Generational and Flexible Living Spaces
With changing family dynamics, many homeowners are designing for multi-generational living or future flexibility.
Common multi-use features
- Secondary suites or in-law apartments with private entrances.
- Main-level bedrooms for accessibility and aging in place.
- Convertible bonus rooms for office, gym, or guest use.
- Detached carriage houses or ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) for rental income or family use.
These flexible spaces future-proof your home and allow you to adapt as your lifestyle evolves, which is especially valuable in fast-growing regions like East Tennessee.
11. Outdoor Entertaining and Year-Round Comfort
East Tennessee’s mild four-season climate makes outdoor living a top priority. Builders are crafting outdoor spaces that function as full extensions of the home.
2025 outdoor trends
- Covered patios and screened porches with ceiling fans or heaters.
- Outdoor kitchens featuring built-in grills, refrigerators, and bars.
- Stone fireplaces and fire pits for cozy gatherings.
- Saltwater pools and plunge tubs integrated into natural landscapes.
- Low-maintenance composite decking and native landscaping.
Whether overlooking a mountain ridge or a backyard creek, outdoor entertaining spaces in East TN emphasize both relaxation and connection.
12. Thoughtful Sustainability and Smart Resource Use
Sustainability in 2025 is not about trends. It is about smart design that conserves without compromise.
Environmentally conscious trends
- Passive solar design: orienting homes to capture sunlight naturally.
- Energy modeling and smart thermostats for predictive comfort control.
- Durable, low-maintenance materials that reduce replacement cycles.
- Native landscaping to support biodiversity and reduce irrigation.
East Tennessee builders are leading with sustainable innovation that aligns with the region’s natural beauty and long-term resilience.
13. Personalized Design and Storytelling Homes
Cookie-cutter designs are out, and storytelling is in. Homeowners want spaces that reflect who they are and what they value.
How personalization shows up
- Custom art niches or display walls for meaningful collections.
- Built-in reading nooks or hobby zones designed for individual passions.
- Interior color schemes tied to personal heritage or travel experiences.
- Architectural focal points that express personality, such as arched doorways, reclaimed beams, or unique staircases.
Custom home design in 2025 is about creating spaces that tell your story through thoughtful details and enduring craftsmanship.
14. Local Builder Expertise: The Secret Ingredient
Design trends matter, but execution determines success. Working with a local builder experienced in East Tennessee’s landscapes, codes, and climate ensures your dream design is both beautiful and buildable.
Why local builders stand out
- Deep familiarity with soil, terrain, and drainage requirements.
- Established relationships with local subcontractors and artisans.
- Proven processes that ensure timely, transparent communication.
- A reputation grounded in trust and craftsmanship.
Learn more about how Richardson Construction’s services and proven process bring these trends to life for homeowners across the region.
FAQs about Custom Home Design Trends in East Tennessee
Q1: Are these design trends more expensive to implement?
Not necessarily. Many modern materials and technologies are both stylish and cost-efficient. The key is balancing aesthetics with budget early in the design phase.
Q2: How can I make sure my home still feels timeless?
Blend trends with classic design principles. Neutral foundations, natural textures, and high-quality craftsmanship stand the test of time.
Q3: Can I integrate new design trends into an existing home?
Yes. Many features like updated lighting, natural materials, and smart home systems can be retrofitted during renovations.
Conclusion: Designing Your 2025 Dream Home in East Tennessee
East Tennessee’s home design trends for 2025 celebrate connection between people, nature, and innovation. Whether you are drawn to sustainable living, smart home systems, or timeless regional style, the key is to design with intention and local expertise.
Key takeaways:
- Embrace nature-inspired design and sustainable materials.
- Focus on flexibility, technology, and personal storytelling.
- Partner with a local builder who understands East Tennessee’s unique charm and challenges.
👉 Ready to start designing your dream home? Contact Richardson Construction today to schedule a consultation. Explore our services, see our recent portfolio, and discover how our proven process transforms the latest trends into lasting homes across our service areas.
