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Southern Living, a prominent lifestyle magazine celebrating its 60th anniversary, has revealed the location of its upcoming2026 Idea House. Situated in the charming town of Fredericksburg, Texas, this new residence aims to blend contemporary design with the warmth of Southern tradition. For over three decades, Southern Living has partnered with local artisans and experts to create homes that showcase the latest architectural trends while honoring the essence of Southern living.
A glimpse into the 2026 Idea House
Located within the serene Frieden community, a designatedSouthern Living Inspired Community, the 4,000-square-foot home will be enveloped by 130 acres of stunning landscapes, including parks, trails, and lakes. This year’s house marks a significant step towards sustainability, designed to harmonize with its natural environment. Every detail of the residence has been carefully planned to promote an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Design and architecture
The architectural style of the house represents a contemporary interpretation of themodern farmhouseaesthetic. This design harmoniously blends traditional Texan elements with a modern color palette. It prioritizes multi-generational living, featuring a motor court and a private casita to enhance privacy for family members.Floor-to-ceiling windowsfacilitate a seamless transition between indoor spaces and the vibrant outdoor landscape, highlighting the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
Meet the creative minds behind the project
The realization of the 2026 Idea House is a collaborative effort involving a skilled team of professionals. The builder,Kurk Homes, is working alongside architect Andrew Bray fromMustard Architects, the Frieden development team, landscape designer Melissa Gerstle, and a diverse group of interior designers, including Jean Liu, Marcus Mohon, and Paloma Contreras. Each team member contributes a unique vision and expertise to ensure that the home embodies the spirit of the community and the principles of Southern Living.
Inspiration from Fredericksburg
Tiffany Ehasz, Vice President and Head of Sales, noted that this house provides a new perspective on contemporary Southern living. It draws inspiration from the rich culture and vibrant wine industry of Fredericksburg. The collaboration among sponsors and designers is essential to create a space that resonates with both visitors and locals.
The 2026 Idea House is set to showcase the innovative contributions of nine prominent sponsors. These include industry leaders such asADT,Clopay,Command™ Brand,James Hardie,Marvin®,Monogram Luxury Appliances,Sherwin-Williams®,Southern Living® Plant Collection, andTimberTech Decking and Railing. Their cutting-edge products will be seamlessly integrated throughout the home, significantly enhancing its
Visiting the Idea House
The 2026 Idea House will open for public tours starting September 18 and will remain accessible until December 20. Tickets will go on sale in April, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting local charities. This initiative underscores the community’s commitment to giving back while offering visitors a unique and engaging experience. It fosters a sense of community involvement, allowing attendees to connect with local efforts and support a good cause.
For those unable to visit in person, the house will be featured onSouthernLiving.comand in the October 2026 issue of Southern Living magazine, available on newsstands starting September 18. After the house is completed, a detailedSouthern Living House Planwill also be available for purchase online. This enables enthusiasts to incorporate stunning elements of the design into their own homes.
The essence of Southern Living
Southern Living serves as a cornerstone of Southern culture, showcasing the finest infood,homes,gardens, andtravel. The magazine engages its audience through various platforms, including print, digital, and social media, connecting them with the rich traditions and modern innovations that characterize life in the South. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Southern Living is a part of People Inc., dedicated to inspiring generations to embrace the unique Southern way of life.