For the final magazine of the year, BUILDER’s Q4 issue looks to the future, with an in-depth housing outlook for 2026.
In addition to the predictions, the publication honors 23 projects with an array of grands and merits in the 2025 Builder’s Choice Design Awards (BCDA), an annual residential design awards program.
As issues start to hit desks, be sure to check out the following stories either in print or online from:
- Zonda Advisory experts from across the country weigh in on what they expect to see in the coming year, including insight from chief advisory officer Tim Sullivan and chief economist Ali Wolf;
- Editor Vincent Salandro and Draffen on the stunning cohort of BCDA winners, including a bold and attainable Project of the Year, eight grands, and 14 merits;
- Writer Heather Wright on why interest in gated security continues to decline, while pool interest increases;
- ARCHITECT editor-in-chief Paul Makovsky on Matti Kuittinen’s Tiny House Shadow, a pilot project exploring what happens when architectural minimalism meets circular construction and carbon-free materials;
- Contributor Jeff Shore on five ways artificial technology is helping to sell new homes right now;
- Associate editor Leah Draffen on the warm and grounded 2026 paint color of the year picks so far;
- Wright on seven appliances with wellness features to create healthier habits at home;
- And Zonda House Plans director of marketing Aurora Zeledon on a 2026 plan with modern cottage style, casual luxury, and lots of porches.
