HGTV just pulled back the curtain on its HGTV® Dream Home 2026—a newly built, fully furnished waterfront escape set on a secluded peninsula along Lake Wylie near Charlotte, North Carolina. And yes, the stakes are big: the sweepstakes winner takes home a grand prize package valued at more than $2.4 million, including the home plus $100,000 cash.

Designed to feel equal parts “weekend getaway” and “forever home,” the property leans hard into lake life—panoramic water views, warm natural finishes, and outdoor spaces built for slow mornings and long sunsets.

A lakeside home built for views (and actual living)

Spanning more than 3,000 square feet, HGTV Dream Home 2026 includes three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, with a layout intentionally oriented to capture Lake Wylie views from nearly every angle.

HGTV describes the home as a calm, curated retreat—where indoor comfort and outdoor beauty are basically in constant conversation. The design palette is rooted in the landscape: earth tones, organic materials, hand-laid stone, custom millwork, classic furnishings, and vintage collectibles that keep the vibe warm and timeless rather than overly trendy.

Some of the standout interior features include:

• A central great room anchored by a reclaimed-wood mantle
• A welcoming dining space with a café-style door
• A chef-style kitchen featuring an over-grouted stone backsplash
• A morning room for casual coffee-and-light moments
• A garage with pantry access plus a dedicated pet wash
• A main bedroom suite with sweeping lake views and a spa-like bath, plus a closet that includes an all-in-one washer/dryer

Outdoor living takes center stage—hello, two-story dock

If the inside is designed for comfort, the outside is designed for the lifestyle. HGTV’s Dream Home 2026 leans into relaxed waterfront living with natural landscaping, laid-back outdoor furnishings, and a pebbled pathway leading to what might be the showstopper: a spectacular two-story dock.

It’s the kind of feature HGTV fans will immediately picture in use—sunrise coffee, sunset watching, and full-on lake days without leaving your property line.

Why Lake Wylie? Location meets laid-back Southern charm

Lake Wylie sits across the North Carolina–South Carolina border and is known for calm waters and an outdoors-first pace. HGTV highlights the lake’s 300+ miles of shoreline and its reputation as a haven for water activities—boating, paddling, and everything in between.

The location also hits that sweet spot of “peaceful but not remote”: it’s about 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte, and within easy reach of nearby towns like Belmont and Fort Mill.

The team behind the build and design

The home was built by Knotts Builders, with interior design led by Brian Patrick Flynn, who said he aimed to reflect Lake Wylie’s natural beauty while keeping the home “warm, inviting, and effortlessly livable.”

HGTV’s Howard Lee, Chief Creative Officer & President, US Networks, added that the home showcases the lifestyle of the Lake Wylie destination—and invited viewers to explore and enter for a chance to make it their own.

Sponsors featured throughout the home

HGTV Dream Home projects are also a showcase for sponsor products integrated into the build and lifestyle experience. This year’s lineup includes:

• Spectrum (connectivity)
• HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams (paint palette)
• Husqvarna (lawn tools)
• SimpliSafe (home security)
• Snuggle (laundry products)
• Stanley Steemer (cleaning)
• Trex (decking/outdoor materials)
• VELUX (skylights and sun tunnels)
• Wayfair (furniture, décor, appliances)

How to enter the HGTV Dream Home 2026 giveaway

The official entry window runs from 9 a.m. ET Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025 through 5 p.m. ET Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. Eligible fans can enter daily at:

• HGTV.com
• FoodNetwork.com

HGTV notes that both sites will include full details, official rules, and additional home features.

When to watch the HGTV Dream Home 2026 special

Viewers can tune into the one-hour special HGTV Dream Home 2026 on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET on HGTV, with streaming availability on Max and discovery+ the same day.

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For fans who want a closer look right now, HGTV also has a dedicated Dream Home hub and photo tours online.

Sources:

• https://www.multivu.com/warner_bros_discovery/9364151-en-hgtv-dream-home-2026-sweepstakes
• https://www.hgtv.com/sweepstakes/hgtv-dream-home
• https://www.hgtv.com/sweepstakes/hgtv-dream-home/2026/tour-hgtv-dream-home-2026-pictures

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3 Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades for Winter

(Family Features) Taking steps to make your home more energy-efficient this winter isn’t just a smart way to lower utility bills, it’s also good for the planet. Whether you’re looking to stretch your budget further or shrink your energy footprint, small upgrades can transform your home into a more efficient, comfortable living space.

While steps like unplugging electronics when not in use and letting natural light in through windows and skylights throughout the day are small habits that can add up over time, these cost-effective ideas can have a more immediate, noticeable impact.

Seal in Comfort
Check for drafts around windows, doors and vents. Tiny leaks or openings can allow warm air to escape or cool outside air to enter. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps and maintain cozy indoor temperatures. Adding extra insulation in your attic or crawl spaces can also lead to a more efficient heating system.

Update Lighting
Switching to LED lightbulbs is a simple way to cut down on energy usage. LEDs not only consume a fraction of the electricity of traditional bulbs but also last longer. To save even more energy, consider pairing them with dimmers or motion sensors, which also add customizable comfort and style.

Replace Outdated Appliances
If your refrigerator, dishwasher or washer and dryer are 10 years old or older, consider investing in an energy-efficient replacement. Modern models are designed to use less water and electricity. Similarly, upgrading to a smart thermostat can make it easier to manage heating schedules automatically and adjust your home’s temperature while out and about.

For more ideas to make your home more efficient year-round, visit eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

eLivingtoday.com

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