MEREDITH COLBURN
Associate Broker and Leader, Meredith Colburn Real Estate at The Agency Birmingham
Since beginning her career in 1993, Meredith Colburn has become a leading expert in the local-real estate market, consistently ranked among the industry’s top realtors. She values collaboration, partnership and legacy — principles that have shaped her highly successful team approach. Leading a powerhouse team of eight, they offer a white-glove approach, prioritizing relationships and delivering outstanding results. Her reputation for being effective, responsive and easy to work with sets her team apart.
Trend 1: We’ve noticed a growing demand for casual entertaining spaces and open-concept floor plans that encourage connection and comfort, allowing for a seamless flow between the kitchen and living areas. Homeowners are prioritizing functional, inviting layouts that enhance everyday living while making entertaining effortless. These designs create a natural gathering space, blending style and practicality.
Trend 2: While the features of a primary bedroom have always been of the utmost importance to homeowners, we've noticed an even higher desire for ultra-luxe amenities in primary suites to create an owner’s private sanctuary. Options include expansive bedroom spaces that incorporate additional sitting areas, private terraces, fireplaces, spa-level en suite baths featuring walls of marble, heated floors, oversized Euro showers and dual dressing areas with fully customized closets and storage solutions. Often adorned with statement lighting, expansive islands and concealed wardrobe cabinetry, a primary closet can steal the show.
JEFF AND MATT BARKER
Associate Brokers, Max Broock Realtors, Birmingham; mattbarkerhomes.com
The dynamic father-and-son duo has more than three decades of combined experience. Known for their in-depth market knowledge, strong negotiation skills and commitment to upholding their ethical reputations, their deep-rooted community connections make them trusted advisors.
Trend 1: Homeowners have been prioritizing health and wellness like never before, transforming areas of their homes for personal relaxation and self-care. Wellness-inspired home design has surged in popularity, with features like infrared saunas, steam showers and cold plunges becoming must-haves. These luxury amenities, which used to be exclusive to health clubs and spas, are now being integrated into homes to promote overall well-being.
Trend 2: Home-design trends in 2025 are embracing character, depth and timeless craftsmanship. Textured walls, statement wallpaper and intricate millwork details like coffered ceilings are making a strong comeback, adding sophistication and personality to interiors. Wallpaper, once considered an outdated finish, is now a go-to for bold patterns that will instantly transform a room. Millwork details are elevating homes with a custom, high-end feel. These elements help blend classic charm with modern appeal.
CANDICE RICH
Global Real-Estate Advisor, Candice Rich Luxury Homes @properties; candicerich.com
With over 22 years as a former CPA, Candice Rich blends financial expertise with luxury real estate. Earning a reputation for a high level of expertise and market insight, she works with professional athletes, high-net-worth families, top-tier investors and global relocations within Michigan’s most coveted communities. Known for her integrity and discretion, Candice is committed to delivering exceptional service and high-value results.
Trend 1: The reign of cool grays is officially over, making room for the warmth of rich, sophisticated tones like toffee, deep caramel and decadent chocolate. These hues bring an understated, inviting opulence and pair easily with natural stone, textured fabrics and soft metallic accents.
Trend 2: Softer, sculptural architectural curves and statement details are replacing sharp, linear designs in the form of arched doorways, curved entryways and rounded furniture silhouettes, creating a sense of fluidity and artistry. Textured walls, cabinetry, fluted wood details and layered materials make homes feel more curated and bespoke.
Trend 3: Think bold contrasts — black-framed windows, statement lighting and distinct hardware add drama and contrast to neutral palettes. While gold and brass remain favorites, mixed metals are in the spotlight, like champagne bronze paired with polished nickel or antique brass with matte black for a modern yet timeless aesthetic.
SAM KAPLUNOV
Principal Broker, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate REMI; samkaplunov.com
Sam Kaplunov blends cutting-edge technology with personalized, old-fashioned service, building relationships based on honesty and integrity. An expert in the strengths of local communities, he serves both first-time buyers and seasoned investors, tailoring solutions for each client’s needs. Kaplunov takes pride in his network of authentic, empathetic individuals who share his core values of respect and kindness — principles that guide his approach to both business and personal relationships.
Trend 1: Smart home integration and wellness tech: From circadian lighting to whole-home air purification systems, wellness-focused smart-home tech is increasingly showing up in homes. High-end buyers want seamless control over lighting, sound and temperature from their phones or voice assistants.
Trend 2: Buyers are paying more attention to energy efficiency and sustainable materials — reclaimed wood, VOC-free paints and high-performance windows are top choices.
Trend 3: Luxury bathrooms are embracing wet rooms — where the shower and freestanding tub are enclosed together for a seamless, spa-like feel. Heated floors, smart mirrors and natural stone finishes (especially honed marble) are must-haves.
CHRIS PERO
Associate Broker, Max Broock Realtors, Birmingham; chrispero.com
With 25 years as a full-time agent in Birmingham, Chris Pero brings deep local expertise, having grown up in Bloomfield and being a Birmingham resident since 2005. As an individual agent, his sales are personal, not team-based — when clients work with him, they get his full attention. With more than $825 million in career sales, he’s consistently a top producer in Birmingham, Bloomfield and Beverly Hills.
Trend 1: Outdoor spaces are very sought-after right now — pools, tennis and pickle-ball courts, living spaces with outdoor fireplaces, TVs and kitchens. High ceilings and natural light. Exposed wood and browns seem to be popular. Unique styles, mid-century modern.
Trend 2: High ceilings with natural light continue to be sought-after, as is exposed wood in rich shades of brown, harkening back to mid-century modern designs.
Trend 3: A growing segment of the market is seeking first-floor primary bedrooms, a trend expected to continue. Homeowners prioritize convenience, accessibility and long-term comfort, a demand that reflects a shift toward practical, future-focused home design.
LISA LIPARI
Associate Broker, DOBI Real Estate, Birmingham; lisalipari.wearedobi.com
Lisa Lipari is a dedicated Birmingham resident and seasoned local realtor with a passion for helping buyers and sellers navigate the real-estate market. With an MBA and a background in sales and marketing, she transitioned into real estate and has built a reputation for excellence. Her success is driven by her honest and ethical approach, extensive experience, strong educational foundation and a commitment to outstanding customer service.
Trend 1: Current design trends have shifted from cool grays and stark whites to warm neutrals, including beige, rich greens, earthy tones, even bold pastels. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to make a significant impact is through wall coverings — whether it’s wallpaper, paint or trim work.
Trend 2: Color drenching is a rising trend involving painting an entire room — including walls, trim, even the ceiling — in the same shade for a cohesive and immersive effect. I recently guided clients through this approach while updating an older home they purchased in Birmingham before moving in.
Trend 3: Another popular trend is wall paneling, also known as wainscoting. Whether used in hallways, small rooms, accent walls in bedrooms or offices, or bathrooms, wainscoting adds depth and sophistication. Recently, before listing penthouses in Detroit’s Exchange Building, we incorporated paneling in the hallway and master bedroom. The added texture and character transformed the white walls, creating warmth and charm — something buyers are loving.
SHEEL SOHAL
Real Estate Advisor, Sheel Sohal Realty Group, KW Domain, Birmingham; sheelsohal.com
As one of the top-producing real-estate advisors in the region, Sheel Sohal has built a reputation on expertise, innovation and a commitment to client success. With a portfolio spanning high-end sales, new construction and design-driven renovations, Sohal and his team offer a seamless approach to real estate, ensuring every client receives personalized guidance tailored to their goals. Beyond transactions, his passion lies in helping clients make smart investments — whether that means purchasing a home with lasting value, selling at peak market potential or enhancing a property through thoughtful design and renovation.
Trend 1: As buyers continue to prioritize functionality and sophistication, I’ve observed the desire for seamless indoor-outdoor living — homeowners are investing in spaces that extend beyond traditional interiors. Covered patios, outdoor kitchens and fully integrated lounge areas blur the lines between indoor comfort and open-air relaxation.
Trend 2: The modern buyer values wellness-centric design. Features like saunas, cold plunges, red-light therapy rooms and dedicated meditation spaces are becoming must-haves in high-end homes.
Trend 3: Luxury kitchens are evolving beyond aesthetics toward statement kitchens with hidden functionality. Buyers are seeking hidden prep kitchens, custom cabinetry with smart storage and oversized islands designed with both entertaining and daily function in mind.