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Millwork, also known as trim work, cabinetry, and custom wood details, is playing a bigger role than ever in home design. In 2026, the focus is on making spaces feel warm, functional, and personal. These trends combine good looks with everyday practicality. Here are the top millwork trends to know:  1. Warm Wood Is BackLight gray and cool tones are fading out. Rich wood colors like walnut, cherry, and oak are making a strong return. These tones add warmth and make a space feel more comfortable and lived in instead of cold or plain. 2. Textured Wood SurfacesFlat, smooth surfaces are being replaced with texture. Grooved wood, like fluted or ribbed panels, adds depth and catches light throughout the day. You will see this on cabinets, kitchen islands, and accent walls. 3. Bold Wall Paneling and TrimTrim and paneling are no longer just background details. Features like wainscoting, slat walls, and thicker trim are being used to create standout walls that add character and make a room feel more finished. 4. Built-Ins That Save SpaceCustom storage is becoming a must-have. Built-in cabinets, shelves, and desks help keep things organized while blending into the design. This keeps rooms looking clean without adding extra furniture. 5. Matte FinishesShiny finishes are becoming less popular. Matte and low-sheen finishes give a softer, more modern look. They also do a better job of hiding fingerprints, dust, and everyday wear. 6. Two-Tone CabinetsMixing colors or wood tones in the same space is a simple way to add interest. For example, lighter cabinets on top and darker ones below can create contrast and make the space feel more custom. 7. Mixing MaterialsWood is being combined with materials like metal, glass, and stone. This adds variety and gives a more modern feel while also improving durability in high-use areas. 8. Bringing Nature IndoorsNatural elements are becoming more important in design. Wood grain, plants, and natural finishes help create a calm and relaxing environment that feels connected to the outdoors. 9. Ceiling DetailsCeilings are getting more attention than before. Adding wood beams, panels, or patterns can draw the eye upward and make the whole room feel more complete and thoughtfully designed 10. More Personal StyleHomes are becoming more unique. Instead of choosing standard options, people are going with custom colors, finishes, and designs that reflect their personal style and how they live. Where You’ll See These Trends
The Bottom LineMillwork in 2026 is about more than just looks. It helps create spaces that feel warmer, stay organized, and work better for everyday life.
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A new study from the National Association of Home Builders shows something interesting: more young adults are finally warming up to the idea of working in the trades. It’s not a massive shift yet—but it’s definitely heading in that direction. Here’s what’s driving it... 1. Interest Is Growing… Just SlowlyMore young people are considering construction than they were 10 years ago. The number has doubled, but it’s still relatively small overall. That means awareness is improving, but most young adults still aren’t seeing it as a go-to career option just yet. 2. Money and Real-World Skills Matter MostWhen young adults do look at the trades, they’re drawn to two main things: solid pay and learning skills they can actually use in the real world. It’s not just about making a living, it’s about building something tangible and gaining experience that can last a lifetime.  NVIDIA CEO, Jensen Huang, says the rapid growth of data center construction is expected to generate a significant number of jobs in the skilled trades. 3. There’s a Huge Need for WorkersThe construction industry is dealing with a serious labor shortage. There simply aren’t enough workers to keep up with demand, especially with the ongoing housing shortage. Over the next few years, millions of new workers will be needed to fill the gap and keep projects moving. 4. Career Uncertainty Is Opening New DoorsA lot of young people today aren’t completely sure what they want to do long-term. Compared to a decade ago, fewer feel locked into a specific career path. That uncertainty is actually creating opportunity, as more people are open to exploring options like the trades. 5. Pay Is a Bigger Motivator Than EverFor many young adults, money is the turning point. More people say they would consider a career in construction if the pay is high enough, and in many cases, it already is. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows construction jobs often pay at or above the national average, with top earners making significantly more. That’s changing how people think about these careers. 6. Big Projects and New Technology Are Creating More OpportunitiesFrom housing developments to massive data center builds, demand for construction is only increasing. Even the rise of new technology like AI is driving more physical infrastructure, which means more jobs in the trades. These roles aren’t going away anytime soon, and in many cases, they’re harder to replace than traditional office jobs. The perception of construction careers is starting to shift. More young adults are open to the idea, but there’s still work to do in showing just how strong the opportunity really is. The jobs are there. The pay is there. Now it’s about getting more people to take a serious look. Ready to Get Involved? Join FBMA Today
If you want to be part of shaping the future of the building industry, now is the time to step in. The Florida Building Material Association connects you with the people, resources, and opportunities that move this industry forward. Join FBMA to build relationships, stay ahead of trends, and play a role in developing the next generation of skilled professionals. JOIN NOW The Lumber and Building Materials industry is evolving quickly as AI becomes more practical in everyday operations. These tools are now helping companies improve customer service, speed up estimating, simplify sales cycles, and run more efficient supply chains. 1. Epicor BisTrack
2. STACK Construction Takeoff
3. Togal.AI
4. SalesJack
5. ECI EvolutionX and Spruce eCommerce
6. Gridlex AI CRM
7. Procore
8. ChatGPT and Claude
9. NotebookLM
10. Zapier
AI in the LBM industry is not about replacing people, but about improving speed, accuracy, and efficiency across daily operations. Companies that adopt these tools are able to respond faster to customers, produce more accurate bids, and manage inventory and supply chains more effectively. Over time, this leads to stronger customer relationships and increased profitability.
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The Florida Building Material Association (FBMA) is dedicated to fostering a thriving business community by providing unparalleled opportunities for professional networking and collaboration. We strive to support our members through access to cutting-edge resources for continuing education, while promoting innovative uses of building material products and services.
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