HGTV Launches Dream Home 2026: A Waterfront Retreat in Charlotte, NC

HGTV Dream Home 2026 Revealed: A Lakeside Paradise

On December 2, 2025, HGTV, a part of the Warner Bros. Discovery family, officially unveiled its much-anticipated Dream Home 2026. This stunning waterfront retreat is situated on Lake Wylie in Charlotte, North Carolina. The sweepstakes winner will not only receive the keys to this exquisite residence but will also be granted a cash prize of $100,000, with the total prize package valued at over $2.4 million.

A Closer Look at the Dream Home 2026

Nestled on a serene peninsula, the Dream Home 2026 spans more than 3,000 square feet and is designed to offer a harmonious blend of modern living and nature. Comprising three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, this luxurious abode provides panoramic views of the lake, which can be enjoyed from almost every room.

Design and Features

The home’s exterior radiates charm, enhanced by natural landscaping and a pebbled pathway leading to a magnificent two-story dock. This dock is not just a visual treat; it serves as the ideal spot for enjoying morning coffee or taking in the breathtaking sunsets. Inside, the design ethos continues with a warm, earthy palette complemented by hand-laid stone, custom millwork, and vintage collectibles that encapsulate a lakeside aesthetic.

At the heart of the home lies an impressive great room, adorned with a reclaimed-wood mantle that adds character and warmth. The inviting dining area features a quaint cafe door and seamlessly flows into a chef-style kitchen, replete with an ornate stone backsplash. Furthermore, thoughtful design elements extend to a morning room, a garage equipped with pantry access, and a specialized pet wash area.

The Master Suite

The main bedroom suite provides not just comfort but also stunning vistas of Lake Wylie. The attached spa-like bathroom features modern amenities including a closet that cleverly incorporates an all-in-one washer and dryer system, catering to convenience and luxury.

The Lake Wylie Lifestyle

Lake Wylie is celebrated for its natural beauty and Southern charm, boasting over 300 miles of inviting shoreline. The region is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for boating and recreation, while being just a short drive away from the vibrant city life of downtown Charlotte. Nearby towns like Belmont and Fort Mill add to the allure, offering a perfect mix of peaceful countryside and urban convenience.

The home is constructed by Knotts Builders, with interior design carried out by the acclaimed Brian Patrick Flynn. Flynn expressed, “This home achieves a wonderful balance between lakeside serenity and refined design.” His vision was to mirror the natural beauty of Lake Wylie while ensuring the space feels inviting and livable.

Enhancements and Contributions

Dream Home 2026 is enriched by partner sponsors who elevate the overall living experience. Spectrum, for instance, ensures high-speed connectivity throughout the home, while HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams provided a rich, nature-inspired paint palette that instills warmth. Husqvarna contributed high-performance lawn tools to maintain the grounds, and SimpliSafe enhances security for residents.

Other sponsors like Snuggle, Stanley Steemer, Trex, VELUX, and Wayfair provided essential products ranging from comfort-enhancing laundry items to stylish outdoor living solutions, all aligned with the timeless design of the home.

Entering the Sweepstakes

The official entry period for the Dream Home 2026 giveaway runs from December 16, 2025, at 9 a.m. ET to February 13, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET. Fans can enter the sweepstakes daily via HGTV.com and FoodNetwork.com, where additional details and rules are also available. For viewers wishing to take a closer look, a special one-hour segment showcasing Dream Home 2026 will air on January 1, 2026.

About HGTV

HGTV is renowned for bringing families compelling stories, dynamic real estate transformations, and relatable home improvement content. With a strong cable presence and a robust online platform, HGTV continues to inspire a passionate audience eager for engaging and aspirational lifestyle insights. For further information, visit www.wbd.com.