With Australians investing an average of $30,000 in kitchen renovations, the guide provides a structured six-stage roadmap that prioritises both longevity and material knowledge. The guide provides the practical details needed for real-world Australian kitchens, highlighting the latest in surface technology.

This includes AbsoluteGrain®, which offers a durable timber aesthetic, and TrueScale, designed specifically for large-scale applications like cabinetry and expansive island benches. Unlike traditional surfaces, TrueScale eliminates pattern repeats, allowing woodgrains and mineral textures to unfold naturally across large areas without interruption. Beyond material selection, the guide covers fundamental spatial requirements, including optimal bench heights and depths, alongside the layout of the essential golden “work triangle.”

Simultaneously, the guide empowers the DIY renovator by demystifying the project management process through a roadmap covering planning, budgeting, layout, style, materials, and final execution. It introduces important financial factors to consider, including the recommended 15% budget contingency to account for the unforeseen structural or plumbing challenges often encountered in Australian homes. By providing an outline of example cost tiers, the guide helps homeowners distinguish between cosmetic refreshes under $25,000 and full structural overhauls that may exceed $50,000.

By providing cost ranges, the guide helps distinguish between a simple kitchen refresh and a major renovation. Most importantly, it provides the thought starters needed to build a clear brief and mood board, making those first conversations with builders or cabinet makers much easier.

“Your budget will not only guide you in your selections of finishes and appliances, but also will help guide your architect, designer or cabinet maker.” notes Cassie James-Herrick, Director of CJH Studio. “It will give them some knowledge to the best scope of works, types of finishes, and selections that they can recommend for that budget.”

Central to this creative freedom is the expansive Laminex Colour Collection, which is supported by four curated Design Directions within the guide. These directions act as a key asset for renovators, providing the thought starters needed to pick a scheme or design that truly suits their home. By grouping the collection’s neutrals, woodgrains, and bold solids into these distinct styles, the guide simplifies the decision-making process.

To help kickstart the design process from home, the Laminex Design Ideas Page offers a digital deep dive into the full Laminex range. This online resource features curated palettes that explore different design styles, helping renovators see how various textures and colours work together in real-world settings. Designed as an easy-to-use starting point, it allows users to experiment with different combinations and narrow down their choices before committing to a final brief, while giving them the ability to order samples online.

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the Laminex showroom network provides the opportunity to experience the collection in person. These spaces allow renovators and trades to interact with large-format samples, providing a true sense of the tactile finishes and take home samples to try in their own spaces. By seeing the materials in person, homeowners can feel more confident in their selections, ensuring the final colours and textures perfectly match their vision for the space.

For more information, contact Laminex.

The post Laminex 2026 Kitchen Design & Renovation Guide Simplifies the Process appeared first on Completehome.

Words Carrol Baker

The profound influence of our homes is created by design elements such as natural light, acoustics, textures and materials. The way that spaces are designed also has a part to play. All of these things feed into human emotions and experiences — they influence how we feel.

Over the past few decades, architecture has undergone a subtle change, which is slowly gathering momentum. Ton Vu, director of Atlas Architects, says this new defining culture is all about human-centred design. “Architecture has experienced a fascinating shift, moving in a wide arc from modernist ideals, through periods of more commercially driven housing, and back towards a renewed focus on people and place,” he says.

At the very heart of human-centred design are strategies that foster organic connection. It’s a design philosophy that seeks to offer connection. Ton explains that this connection is between the inhabitants, each other, and also nature. “This was a defining feature of Australia’s mid-century bespoke houses by architects such as Robin Boyd, and even the suburban project homes developed by the Merchant Builders, which carefully integrated courtyards, gardens, and shared spaces to foster interaction and a sense of community,” he explains.

Humans enjoy architecture that is visually appealing. The beauty of human-centred architecture is that it’s more than skin deep. Mick Moloney from Moloney Architects says the focus on human-centred design is a welcome change. “Over the past five years I’ve noticed a real shift away from heroic, ‘look-at-me’ architecture,” he shares. “The focus now is on more nuanced projects that derive meaning from their relationship to place, history, and the people who live in them.”

Human-centred design encompasses many modalities and nuances. It’s holistic, driven by a desire to foster feel-good spaces that boost health and wellbeing. Sam Crawford from Sam Crawford Architects says great domestic architecture elevates the everyday human experience. “It considers the simple rituals of our day, such as cleaning our teeth — so designing the bathroom could provide a view out the window to a beautiful garden, or to the canopy of a gum tree lit up by the early-morning sun, or a glimpse of the ocean,” he says. “Or it may be creating a small ledge where we might sit to drink the first cup of coffee of the day, with the winter sun on our back.”

A healing home

A home designed with wellness in mind is uplifting. It seeks to nurture, to heal. It offers respite from everyday pressures that can exist the moment you step outside your front door.
Human-centred design is achingly complex, yet peel back the layers and it’s refreshingly simple. Sam says it’s all about spaces that dignify and bring joy to our everyday lives.

“We may not experience this at a conscious level, in the same way that we may not, at a conscious level, bemoan the lack of human touch in a given day,” he says. “Well-designed, considered spaces make us feel better — make us feel loved and cared for, make us feel safe.”

Your home plays a huge role in your mental health. The right design, materials, colours, textures, light, and connection to the natural world can have a deep impact. “Today we are seeing a return to those human-centric ideals, now strengthened by building science and sustainability imperatives,” says Ton. “Contemporary human-centred design in Australia goes beyond aesthetics — it’s about creating energy-efficient, healthy, and comfortable homes.”

For Ton, thoughtful selection often comes down to a few key criteria: choosing products with low-embodied energy, which are non-toxic and ideally from renewable or responsibly sourced materials. “For example, specifying VOC-free paints, FSC-certified timbers, and natural wool insulation reduces exposure to harmful chemicals and creates healthier indoor air quality,” he says.

Human-centred design also encompasses design flexibility. Mick says a family’s life isn’t static, so spaces shouldn’t be either. “Operable screens, dual-use spaces and layered floorplans let you open things up for connection or close them down for privacy or to hide clutter,” he says. “Flexibility makes a home more enjoyable and more enduring as your circumstances change.”

Naturally good

Biophilic design is a part of human-centric planning. It’s all about connection. It’s based on the notion that humans have an innate relationship with nature. Sam says looking for ways to enhance that sense of connectedness is important. “Views to a garden, to the ocean or the sky; the sound of birdsong — these things calm our nervous system and lead to healthier, happier lives,” he says.

There’s a host of ways you can foster connectivity to the outdoors. One of Mick’s favourites is the window seat. “Is there a better architectural invention than the window seat?” he ponders. “In our house, the window seat is the most loved spot — the only issue is that all five of us want to sit there at once!”

Biophilic design is, at its heart, human centric. It’s all about plants and indoor-outdoor connectivity to greenspaces, but that’s only part of the story. “It can apply to spaces with surfaces made of natural materials that make us feel more comfortable, happier and healthier,” adds Sam. “The surfaces of the things that we see and touch change the way we feel inside ourselves.”

Biophilic design encompasses flowing water, warm spaces bathed in natural light, even organic shapes that occur in the natural world, such as a curved benchtop or curved mirrors. It’s all about flowing shapes rather than geometric or ordered patterns.

Calm the chaos

Human-centred design seeks to offer calm and solace. Cluttered spaces influence our emotions. It can lead to feelings of overwhelm and disconnect. Creating interior spaces that have adequate storage helps to corral the clutter and calm the mind. Well-designed spaces offer solutions for storage, so what you need is at your fingertips when required and tucked out of sight when it isn’t. Custom joinery pieces are tailored to individual storage needs. Multifunctional storage spaces offer design flexibility over time as needs change.

Community living

With booming population growth in inner cities and along coastal fringes, the only way to go is up. Apartment living in residential communities is on the rise — in more ways than one. Modern apartment living is human centric — it fosters connectivity between residents. But it hasn’t always been that way. Ton points out that for a long time, architects grappled with the disconnect between residents and the ground plane, as well as the isolation created by repetitive, stacked apartment layouts.

“In recent years, we’ve seen innovative strategies to re-establish those incidental moments of connection,” he says. “Projects such as Nightingale Apartments in Melbourne show how communal laundries, rooftop veggie gardens, and outdoor dining areas can become places where neighbours naturally meet.”

Light me up

Natural light is balm for the soul. It boosts your serotonin levels and can elevate your mood. Some say it’s essential to the human condition. “If natural light isn’t in our charter of human rights, it damn well should be,” states Mick. “Sunlight does more than brighten a room — it sets our sleep–wake cycles, sharpens concentration, and also supports our mental health.”

Human-centred design captures natural light, it looks at ways to harness dappled light, and at times it seeks to punch light deep into a home. Other times it needs to offer shade. Mick explains that design wise, it’s about getting the right light in the right place at the right time.

“Bedrooms facing east allow you to wake up with the morning sun, while living areas oriented north stay bright and comfortable throughout the day,” he explains. “We usually avoid harsh western sun in the afternoons, but sometimes we like to design in a little sun trap to capture that warmth on a chilly winter afternoon.”

Some say to design a human-centric home, we should also be able to look up and see the heavens. “I firmly believe that we need to be able to see the sky from indoors,” says Sam. “Rooms with windows with a low head height that prevent us from seeing the sky from within our domestic spaces lower our mood.”

Sound bites

Design elements in residential architecture are what makes up human-centred design. Acoustics refers to how sound waves radiate from a source and interact with other surfaces in a space. Sam says well-proportioned rooms, with the right balance of hard and soft surfaces, create a comfortable acoustic environment.

“Our voices can be heard and not drowned out by echo or reverberation,” he says. “We may not be conscious of acoustics when a room is comfortable, but we will certainly be conscious of it when a room is loud and uncomfortable.”

The acoustics of a space is important, yet Ton says it’s not given its due. “Acoustic design is one of the most overlooked aspects of residential architecture,” he notes. He explains that acoustics can be enhanced through deliberately minimising noise transmission from outside and between rooms.

“For example, this can be done by separating quiet bedrooms from noisy living areas, specifying solid internal doors, and using wall and floor assemblies with higher acoustic ratings,” he says. “Thoughtful surface selection is equally important: incorporating sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic ceilings, rugs, and upholstered finishes can reduce reverberation and create a softer, more comfortable sound environment.”

This article originally appeared in Grand Designs Australia, issue 14.4.

The post My Sanctuary appeared first on Completehome.

SuperOven Collection

The SuperOven collection consists of two models, Model 1 and Model 1S: the former takes advantage of the power and versatility of two stacked ovens, while the more compact Model 1S, 2023 Red Dot Design Award winner, features a single cooking chamber.

SuperOven offers professional performance in a simple, immediate way, enabling cooking methods not found in traditional ovens, such as grilling, steaming, frying, smoking, and dehydrating, to name just a few. Its user-friendly digital control panel allows activation of over 400 automatic cooking programmes, for which all it takes is to select the type of food and the desired result and the oven automatically determines the settings, adapting them to the amount of food being cooked.

Furthermore, the oven features an integrated accessory drawer for storing the included professional trays and a built-in hood that eliminates odours and vapours using a professional active carbon filter. SuperOven also boasts an integrated automatic washing system: with a touch of the screen, it cleans itself using a solution of water and UNOX’s patented mild, eco-friendly detergent.

The culinary experience is completed by the Unox Casa App, the digital extension of SuperOven that enhances control, precision, and creativity within the home. Available in multiple languages and downloadable from major app stores, the app is structured into three distinct sections: My Oven, an intuitive dashboard that monitors cooking and cleaning phases; Programs, a space to create personalised cooking programmes; and Cook Like a Chef, an exclusive collection of recipes curated by Unox chefs and international culinary stars, designed to showcase the full performance of SuperOven.

Unox Casa returns to EuroCucina and welcomes Australian architects on tour

2026 marks a defining year for Unox Casa, with its return to Salone del Mobile / EuroCucina FTK for the third consecutive edition. This year, Unox Casa will unveil a fully reimagined stand – an immersive environment where visitors are invited to experience a new way of living, one in which Michelin-starred performance becomes achievable in the home.

EuroCucina will also provide the stage for the unveiling of a new concept, expanding the brand’s vision of domestic culinary excellence. During Milan’s Design Week, Unox Casa will also open the doors of its Brera Design District showroom, hosting a curated program of exclusive culinary demonstrations. These experiences will bring together design, technology and gastronomy at the heart of Milan’s most influential design quarter.

Following Salone del Mobile, Unox Casa will welcome a select group of Australian architects and designers for a special company tour promoted by Connect Australia. Thirty industry professionals will be hosted at the newly developed Unox City, discovering the place where SuperOven was born and where the future of high-performance living is shaped every day.

Through these initiatives, Unox Casa continues to strengthen its global presence while deepening its connection with the international design community – setting the stage for the next evolution of luxury living.

For more information

Unox Casa

The post Unox Casa: Experience a New Era of Domestic Culinary Excellence appeared first on Completehome.

Words Carrol Baker

If you are planning a new kitchen or bathroom, there’s a lot to consider. What shape kitchen will serve your family’s needs? Where will your shower, bath and vanity go? What workspaces and storage will be practical additions? Materiality is also important. It needs to be robust enough to withstand the rigours of family living, easy to keep clean, easy to use, and of course safe.

All this needs to be packaged up in an ergonomic design that also ticks the box for aesthetics. Your family kitchen and bathroom need to work well and look good, too. Functional family kitchens and bathrooms really are the sum of all their parts. So if your family kitchen and bathroom spaces aren’t up to scratch, it’s time to update.

Open and shut

An open-plan kitchen is a great option for families for a host of reasons. The open-plan layout is spacious and also easy for those in the kitchen to move around to access appliances. Anders Lawaetz from Seabreeze Kitchens says we’ve come a long way with the family kitchen over the past few decades.

“Modern kitchens are very different from 30 years ago, where poor mum was stuck in a room out back,” he says. “These days, with an open-plan kitchen, whoever is cooking can still be part of family activities – chatting over breakfast or helping kids do homework while cooking.”

Another family-friendly layout is the galley-style kitchen, adds Anders. “You can still have this option with an open plan and with an island. There’s ease of access – it’s very user-friendly,” he notes.

Position perfect

Versatility is key when designing a family kitchen. David Mitchell from Kitchens U Build suggests making the space as functional and easy to use as you can. “Simple things such as ensuring your bins are within easy reach of food prep spaces can make a huge difference to the flow of your kitchen,” he suggests.

David adds that the layout of your kitchen space should reflect the way you use it. “If you love cooking up a storm, then ensuring the fridge, ovens, cooktops and the kitchen sink are accessible from one spot will make preparing meals easy,” he says.

“If your kitchen is where the family gathers to chat and relax, then think about dividing your space into sections: one for eating, one where everyone can sit together, and one for cooking.

Corral the clutter

A butler’s pantry can be anything from an appliance and pantry storage space to a second full kitchen tucked out of sight. If you have a large family or love to entertain, a butler’s pantry is a fabulous idea.

Storage can be a mixture of open shelving, deep shelving, and also shallow shelving to access everyday items. As well as ample storage, a second sink reduces mess in the main kitchen space. If you have the space and budget, add a cool room. It keeps produce at the optimum temperature level and is a great idea for large families.

Island living

The kitchen island is a family-friendly addition, which is a must-have if space permits. David says the island is often the true heart of the home. “It’s an area that not only has to look great, but be functional as well,” he notes.

For the ultimate kitchen island layout and inclusions, David says to ensure it’s designed to work for many different situations. “Make sure you’ve got plenty of storage space to keep everything in its proper place, giving you easy access to items when you need them,” he advises. “You’ll also want uninterrupted bench space on your island for versatility, so including deep drawers, hidden storage or pull-out recycling stations can help you keep your island clear of clutter.”

It’s also important to include conveniently placed power points, adds David. “This ensures you’ve got the power you need for your kitchen appliances as well as the kids’ computers, making your island the place to be for everyone.”

Built to last

Durability is key for a family kitchen; whatever materials you choose, you want them to last. Select those that are durable and minimal – stone, engineered stone, and solid-surface benchtops are scratch- and chip-resistant. Stainless steel is another product that will wear well and is easy to clean. Opt for cupboard doors with profiles designed to withstand impact, and satin-finish cabinetry as it will hide finger marks.

Kitchen safety

When designing a family-friendly kitchen, safety is paramount. Anders says curved benchtops are a great idea. “It will have a softer impact if a small child runs into one; they’re very popular at the moment,” he shares. Instead of cupboards, choose drawers as items are less likely to fall out. Drawers also offer maximum storage potential – there’s no wasted space with deep dark corners of cupboards you can’t access.

For flooring in kitchens and bathrooms, choose textured non-slip surfaces such as concrete, or textured floorboards. Avoid highly polished tile surfaces.

When designing a family kitchen that’s practical and child-friendly, there’s more than safety issues to consider. Offering solutions so your tribe can grab brekky on the go is a great idea for busy mornings. Helle Olsen from Collaroy Kitchen Centre suggests setting up a breakfast station: “Design an area where bowls, breakfast cereals, bread and toaster are kept so that when children are old enough, they can grab their own breakfast.”

Anders also suggests creating a kids’ play area in the kitchen. “They can have their own plastic utensils and bowls in their own little drawer, and adults can keep an eye on the kids while preparing meals,” he adds.

If your little one is a budding chef, you can also get them involved by giving them a step up. “If they can stand on a small stool, young children can feel like they’re part of the cooking process,” says Helle. And with a step stool, they can also “help” with the washing up afterwards.

Bathing beauties

Bathtime with kids is where magical memories are made. But bathrooms are also spaces where slips and falls can occur, where water can scald little ones, and where mess and grime can accumulate.

In the bathroom, Helle suggests installing childproof locks on cupboards storing medicines, razors or cleaning supplies. Your tapware selection is also important. “Single-lever taps are easier for kids to use,” notes Helle. To prevent accidents and scalding, add a thermostatic mixer. Anders explains that these set water flow at a constant temperature, so it reduces the risk of scalding. “They aren’t used a great deal in Australia, and they should be. In Europe it is the norm,” he says.

Creating safe bathroom spaces that are easy to clean means peace of mind and more time to spend with your family. Anders says how you design your bathroom from the get-go has potential safety and useability repercussions. “I try to design a bathroom with wet areas away from the door; that way you can walk in and wash your hands without getting wet feet,” he says. With multiple users in a family bathroom, positioning the toilet close to the door also makes good sense. “It will be used a lot during the day – the shower and bath less so,” adds Anders.

When designing a bathroom that will have multiple users, storage space is at a premium. Helle suggests a recessed mirror cabinet with shelves for small items such as electric toothbrushes and toiletries. It’s up high so small inquisitive fingers won’t be able to reach medicines.

Your choice of bathroom vanity is an opportunity to add ample storage. Helle says it’s a good idea to pick a vanity with drawers. “Preferably at least one drawer for each person for bigger items such as hairdryer and straightener,” she suggests.

Bathrooms that shine

In the bathroom, the tiles that you use are important – opt for textured tiles to reduce slip hazards. Larger-format tiles are also good options, according to Helle, as with larger tiles there’s less grout. She also advises using a gloss or semi-gloss finish as matt tiles are very hard to keep clean.

Floating vanities and toilets will also help reduce cleaning time as they are easy to clean underneath. A sparkling-clean shower screen is always desirable, but it doesn’t take long
in family bathrooms for them to get dirty. Helle’s suggestion: “Treat shower screens
with EnduroShield as it repels water, soap scum and grime.”

Full house

Over the past decade or so, the dynamic of Australian households has undergone a delicate shift. Taking their cue from Asia, Africa and Latin America, where it’s common for different generations of families to live under one roof, more and more Australian families are following suit.

Multigenerational living means catering for the young and the elderly under one roof. For the elderly, a bench seat positioned at one end of the shower can make bathing easier. When designing your bathroom, factor in your future needs too as it will make retrofitting devices easier. Make sure there is provision for grab bars, and wide access for doorways.

If possible, design your bathroom with a heated floor for comfort – there’s nothing like stepping out of a steaming shower onto warm flooring on a chilly winter morning. “It also keeps things dry and is the best form of heating for a bathroom,” advises Anders.

This article was originally published in Kitchens & Bathrooms Quarterly #32.2

The post Family Living appeared first on Completehome.

Words Karen Booth

Earth tones suffuse a space with warmth. They create a sense of being grounded, which can be enhanced with the layering of natural materials, textures and patterns.

“The popularity of earthy colour palettes in kitchen and bathroom design speaks to our need for peace in an increasingly overstimulating world,” says Cate Liedtke, director of Catherine de Meur Interiors. “These spaces, with the help of a nature-inspired colour palette, have evolved into sanctuaries where we seek both physical and psychological restoration, providing an essential counterbalance as our lives become more screen-dominated. Biophilic design principles confirm that nature-referencing colours reduce stress and promote wellbeing.”

Kirsty Duncan, director of Bearcanvas Interiors, agrees: “Earth tones and natural textures are indeed associated with relaxation, making them ideal when the goal is to create a space that is soothing to the eye. This can especially be the case in bathrooms, where people are looking for
that spa-like feeling.”

Christie Wood, Beaumont Tiles product specialist, says using colours and materials that reflect the earth, such as terracotta, stone and wood, definitely allow us to create spaces that make us feel calmer and more aligned with the natural world. “This also encompasses the use of organic shapes, which includes the beautiful curves we see today in so many kitchens and bathrooms,” she shares. “Australians, inspired by their natural surroundings, are embracing a fluid, free-form aesthetic that mimics nature.”

Comfort and connection

“The increasing prevalence of earth-hued kitchens and bathrooms is due, in large part, to this colour palette’s ability to create an ambience of comfort and serenity,” says Katherine Champion, Wattyl colour specialist. “Earthy hues don’t just connect us with nature, they are inviting and make a space feel cosy. They also pair beautifully with natural materials such as stone, perhaps in tiles, benchtops or bathtubs; timber, used for shelving or vanities; and tapware with an earth-mineral finish, such as copper.

“By using a layered blend of earthy shades and textures, you can create a sense of depth and visual interest and, importantly, a feeling of great comfort. Earthy browns, from beige through to chocolate and mocha, are especially calming and cocooning and complement materials and textures such as timber, linen, stone, brick and ceramics.”

For those who prefer a nature-inspired aesthetic, it’s all about embracing the beauty of imperfection, adds Cate. This is especially the case when choosing surfaces and finishes. “Earthy textures like natural stone, wood and clay bring warmth and character into a space precisely because they are not sleek and manmade,” she says.

“You can pair softer organic materials with rougher textures to create balance. For example, smooth polished stone on the countertop combined with a textured, wooden cabinet gives visual contrast without overwhelming the senses.”

Working with colour

“Greys with a warm undertone, clay, ochre and terracotta, olive-green and sage along with mineral-inspired blues are among the earth colours currently trending. Emerging trends include moss and lichen greens, browns, complex neutrals with blue undertones and layered earth tones,” says Cate.

The softer shades, such as sandy beige and stonewashed grey, create a peaceful aura and can provide a base for vibrant colour accents. Richer tones can be used to add character and a dash of drama, while if you want to create a moodier or cossetting effect, browns have a lot to offer. To energise a room and impart a feeling of freshness, greens are ideal.

“You can combine different earthy tones in subtle layers. For instance, light-beige walls, darker walnut cabinetry and golden stone accents on countertops can create a dynamic yet calming environment. Avoid using too many bold or bright colours to maintain a natural, soothing atmosphere,” advises Cate.

“To really experience the full impact of an earth-toned palette, you can try colour drenching, whereby the same hue, in different tonal levels, is used throughout the kitchen or bathroom – from ceiling through to walls and floor. This creates a warm, immersive ambience that is soothing and nurturing,” adds Katherine.

The beauty of stone

Tiles that conjure the hues, patterning and texture of natural stone, from travertine to marble, are a cost-effective way to give a bathroom or kitchen a luxurious yet grounded look. Many opt for subtle shades and veining but a new trend is for darker, more vibrantly coloured emulations with bolder, more intricate veining (perhaps in gold, organic green or ruby red). These are ideal for those who want an opulent yet still natural effect, perhaps in the form of a statement splashback or a feature wall in a bathroom.

For island benches, vanity tops, shelving and splashbacks – anywhere you want a seamless surface – silica-free materials such as Caesarstone, Dekton and Staron offer a treasure trove of options that mimic the veining and colours found in quarried stone. And if budget allows, you of course have the option of real stone where every slab will be unique.

Looking beyond tiles and surface materials, stone basins are a great way to introduce natural textures. For a more artisanal touch, concrete basins with an earthy matt finish in hues like
soft sand give an understated nod to nature. Stone bathtubs also add to the biophilic beauty of a bathroom.

Curves in ALL the right places

“By incorporating curved shapes, such as half-round finger mosaic tiles on a kitchen island bench, you can introduce a nature-connected vibe and a sense of flow,” says Christie. “In bathrooms, organic-shaped tiles or pebble-shaped mirrors are a fantastic way to introduce natural forms and foster a spa-like atmosphere.”

“The appeal of organic shapes lies in how they counterbalance the typically rigid, linear environments kitchens and bathrooms have traditionally embodied,” adds Cate. “When we incorporate curves and nature-inspired forms, we’re essentially creating a subtle psychological shift. Organic shapes create visual respite in spaces dominated by practicality, and provide a tactile experience that invites touch and interaction.

“The bathroom offers numerous opportunities to embrace organic shapes: freestanding round or oval bathtubs, round or pill-shaped vessel sinks and curved shower screens. You can introduce arched doorways or niches, curved walls or partial walls, or rounded shower seats. Fish scale, penny tiles and curved marble mosaics create rhythm and movement while organically shaped drawer pulls and handles break the rectilinear norm.

“In the kitchen, you can incorporate waterfall islands with rounded corners, curved breakfast bars or curved upper cabinets, rounded open shelving, arched alcoves, curved rangehoods or rounded banquettes.”

Perfect style pairings

There are some design styles that really lend themselves to the “down to earth” approach. “The Mediterranean style is a standout for its earthy tones and organic shapes as it draws its inspiration from nature – think flowers, leaves and waves,” says Christie.

“This style beautifully incorporates earthy colour palettes and soft, organic shapes, offering a timeless, relaxed aesthetic that works perfectly in both kitchens and bathrooms. Patterned encaustic-look tiles or glazed ceramic tiles are fantastic choices for those that favour a Mediterranean aesthetic and want to integrate biophilic design elements.”

For those who favour a biophilic design approach, you can introduce natural themes in the guise of tiles with leaf, floral or wave-like patterns. In the bathroom you can include waterproof wallpaper as a feature to bring in plant, bird, fish motifs… even exotic jungle or beneath the sea scenes. Wallpaper can work very well in bathrooms with a vintage aesthetic or a coastal theme, or in powder rooms to make a big impact in a small space. It can also be used as a feature in a kitchen or butler’s pantry, elevating the space with colour and pattern.

Getting the right balance

“Balance, personalisation and functionality are key. Choose materials and products that not only reflect your style, but also work well for your space,” says Christie. “And while combining organic shapes and earthy tones can create an inviting, connected-to-nature vibe, it needs to be done in a harmonious way.”

“Focus on simplicity,” adds Cate. “Organic shapes and textures add visual interest, but avoid overcrowding the space with too many ornate details. Ensure each piece serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. To add natural elements in a more measured way, consider open shelving in both the kitchen and bathroom to showcase beautiful organic materials like wooden bowls, hand-thrown mugs or woven baskets. These add texture, warmth and practicality to the room but not in an overwhelming way.”

Kirsty adds that introducing organic elements, like a rounded island bench, oval mirrors, or curved cabinetry breaks up the hard lines typically found in kitchens and bathrooms and brings visual balance to these spaces. “Since organic shapes often go beyond standard offerings, they invite bespoke design and customisation, particularly in cabinetry. This opens up the opportunities for a more creative, personally tailored outcome that speaks to who you are while embracing the colours and forms of our natural surroundings in the most cohesive way possible.”

The post Down to Earth appeared first on Completehome.

The quality of your water affects more than you might think, from how your appliances perform to how your skin feels after a shower. Clean, safe water protects your home, your family and everything that depends on it. And when it comes to what you drink, nothing matters more than knowing every glass of water is fresh, pure and free from chemicals or impurities.

That’s why more Australian homeowners are choosing Davey Water, the trusted name in water management for over 90 years. Whether you’re building, renovating or simply upgrading your lifestyle, Davey brings peace of mind through smarter water solutions designed for modern living.

A complete approach to water quality

Davey’s Australian-designed systems do more than just filter water, they refine it. Under bench filtration systems play a key role in reducing chemicals, organic matter and scale, while improving taste and odour in your water. Whole-of-house solutions, such as the Davey AquaShield 3 stage UV system, ensure every shower, bath and appliance benefits from water that’s clean, gentle and consistent.

For homes using rainwater or bore water, Davey’s AquaShield range, a UV and sediment filtration system, provides an added layer of protection by removing impurities and neutralising bacteria, so you can feel confident that every drop in your home is as pure as it looks.

Because water should be clean, safe and chemical free.

Built for Australian homes

Engineered for our unique conditions, Davey systems are made to last, and made to look good doing it. The latest design features a sleek, durable cover that protects key components while complementing any contemporary home environment.

And with the new Davey AquaShield Service Kit , maintenance is refreshingly simple. The kit includes everything you need to keep your system running perfectly, empowering you to care for your home’s water the same way you care for every other detail.

Confidence that flows

Davey has been helping Australians protect and enhance their homes for nearly a century. With local design, ISO-certified manufacturing and support from a nationwide network of specialists, every Davey product is backed by the kind of dependability that’s become part of the brand’s DNA.

So, as you plan your next home project, don’t forget the element that quietly powers them all.

Because when your water feels good, your whole home does too.

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The post The finishing touch every Australian home deserves appeared first on Completehome.

Words Carrol Baker

Renovating your kitchen is a balancing act between form and function, aesthetics and practicality. Creating the kitchen of your dreams begins with your vision. With cutting-edge developments in technology, sustainable thinking and product advancements, it’s possible to deliver a state-of-the-art kitchen that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

Gather inspiration and ideas about kitchen benchtop materials, cupboards and handles, tapware, tiles or splashback materials, appliances and flooring. Think about how you’d like the space to look. When you have an idea, get a kitchen designer on board to refine your plans. They’ll assess your lifestyle, budget, tastes and how you plan to use the space. They’ll show you ways to save money so you’ll get the most bang for your buck. They can also suggest ideas and concepts you might not have thought of.

John Hall from Nobby Kitchens says a designer will have up-to-date product knowledge and be across new innovations in storage solutions. They’ll help to trouble shoot any problems and suggest alternatives.

In her role as a designer, Susan Wasley from The Kitchen Designer is often called in to design a new kitchen although at first glance, there seems nothing wrong with the old one. As Susan points out, the kitchen must be practical as it is a workspace. “It might look fabulous, but it might not be functional or easy to work in,” she says.

How kitchens have evolved

The modern kitchen has undergone many incarnations over time. Post-war 1950s kitchens were elegant yet vibrant. You might find patterned lino flooring and red cabinetry. In the 1970s, bold wallpapers found their way into kitchens along with avocado green benchtops. In the 1990s, floors were tiled and timber cabinetry reigned supreme. A decade later, drawers began replacing cupboards, new appliances heralded an age of innovation, and kitchens began to feature in open-plan designs as an extension of living spaces.

Nicholas Cioffi, market development specialist from UNOX Australia, says the past decade has been a gamechanger. “Significant evolutions in the modern domestic kitchen over the past 10 years have been driven by technology and AI advancements, coupled with environmental sustainability,” he says. “We have also seen exceptional aesthetic and functional design of the kitchen space. All three aspects combine to deliver superior cooking results, workflow efficiency and lower energy consumption.”

An effortless kitchen

Kitchen layout is a critical component of functionality. Whether you’re feeding kids breakfast on the go, hosting a foodie event for 20 buddies or dishing up an intimate dinner for two, the kitchen needs to deliver on design.

Alex Garnish, senior designer at Complete Kitchens, says when designing a custom-made kitchen, she tailors the space to suit the brief of the individual clients and the space. “Obviously, you want to maximise storage, functionality, ergonomics and the working flow of the kitchen, and you need to consider how it’s going to flow when multiple people are in the space if it’s a family zone,” she says.

For a kitchen to work well, good design is essential. Visakh Vignesh from Kitchen Connection (KWB Group) says maximising flow and storage, while ensuring the classic kitchen work triangle (sink, stove, fridge) is seamless, is the key. “Open-plan designs are still favoured, encouraging connection to living spaces, but it’s essential to integrate enough bench space and cleverly concealed storage,” he says. “Thoughtful additions such as walk-in pantries, integrated appliances and multi-functional island benches can greatly improve efficiency without sacrificing style.”

There are plenty of striking new concepts in kitchen materials that are gaining traction, as well as beloved looks set to endure. John says white kitchens are still in demand, coupled with brushed-metal tapware. “Running second at the moment are shades of green and darker blues,” he says. “Lighter oaks, and now darker walnut, is starting to emerge with other colours such as green.”

Designing a small kitchen

With more people opting for apartment-style living, small kitchens also need to be aptly designed for functionality and good looks. Alex says a smaller space can be an opportunity to discover some big ideas. “I find smaller kitchens a fun challenge to design, but be realistic about what will work and keep your appliances smaller,” she advises. “This includes the sink, keeping the cooktop to 60cm, using an under-bench oven, and smaller bins under the sink.”

Some kitchens are so tucked away you don’t even know they are there! John says they’re seeing more concealed kitchens. “Some people want a butler’s kitchen that is concealed, with the front kitchen tidy. The workspace is out the back,” he says. This conceals clutter and mess. However, taking it one step further, you can have a kitchen that is completely hidden when you want it to be. John says this is especially handy for apartment-style living. “You can have built-in appliances and flush cabinetry. Blum Revego pocket doors work very well,” he suggests.

Stylish tapware

Kitchen tapware should have an elegant finish, be hardwearing and easy to use. Beautiful tapware can serve to define the aesthetic within a space, adding another layer of style. Pull-out taps are functional and make clean-up easier.

Tapware in matt black, brushed metals such as solid brass or stainless steel, brushed nickel and gold add elegance and style to your kitchen. New innovations such as automatic hands-free taps that turn off and on with motion sensors and infrared proximity make meal preparation easier.

Seeing the light

Lighting is an important part of modern kitchen design. Todd Miller from Alti Lighting says the right lighting enhances the aesthetic and improves functionality. “The kitchen is where a lot of tasks, from cooking to entertaining, take place,” he says. “Proper lighting ensures these tasks can be carried out safely and efficiently.”

Modern lighting can elevate your kitchen. Todd says sculptural or artistic pendant lights provide functional lighting over islands or dining areas but also make a statement. “Think of chandeliers with geometric patterns or organic, flowing designs made from materials such as brass, matt black, or even glass with intricate designs,” he enthuses.

“Under-cabinet lighting is a subtle but transformative addition to any kitchen,” adds Todd. “Newer LED strip lights now come with customisable options, including colour temperature changes and dimming capabilities.”

Recessed or integrated lighting in cabinetry is also popular. “Incorporating lighting directly into cabinetry or shelving is another trendy way to make the kitchen feel modern and luxurious,” he says.

Beautiful benchtops

There’s plenty of new innovation and style in kitchen benchtops. Visakh says natural textures and earthy tones are trending, with a strong focus on sustainability. “Engineered stone remains a favourite for its durability and sleek look, while porcelain slabs are gaining popularity for their versatility and heat resistance,” he explains. “Standouts right now include Dekton surfaces, loved for their low maintenance and resilience, and recycled timber benchtops, which add warmth and character while appealing to eco-conscious renovators.”

It’s not just material choices that are evolving in kitchen benchtops, but shapes, too. Susan says straight lines are morphing into curved forms. “There are also more rounded and curved shapes to kitchen benches which are especially easy to achieve with solid surface,” she advises.

What’s underfoot

Kitchen flooring needs to be robust, able to withstand not only heavy floor traffic, but liquid spills, hot and cold elements, and hard materials such as crockery being dropped on it. From hardwood to vinyl, laminate, porcelain, tiles and more, there’s a host of viable options. Do your research. It’s also important not to skimp on cost as the floor needs to go the distance. With open-plan living, the flooring material you choose will ideally need to be used in dining and living room spaces to provide continuity.

Splashbacks with style

Create a focal point that is beautiful and unique with your kitchen splashback. Visakh says customers are leaning towards bold statement splashbacks. “Porcelain and glass are standout materials,” he notes. Metals, large-format tiles, kit kat mosaics and tiles with unique texture and patterns are also creating a stylish focal point.

Visakh adds many splashback colours are veering to neutral tones. “Think sage greens and soft terracottas — these are highly sought after, bringing a natural, contemporary edge to modern kitchens,” he says.

For something wonderfully unique, extend the benchtop material up the wall to create a seamless integration of benchtop and splashback.

State-of-the-art appliances

There are some groundbreaking new innovations in kitchens that are delighting industry professionals and consumers alike. And for good reason. Nicholas Cioffi says the Unox Casa SuperOven range features AI-powered cooking technology, intuitive controls and seamless functionality, making it effortless for anyone to master. “Other innovative appliances that pair well with the Unox Casa SuperOven are vac drawers and blast chillers,” he adds.

At Winnings there are many new innovations that are coming up trumps. The Fisher & Paykel 35 Bottle Dual Zone wine cabinet is designed for the discerning wine lover, seamlessly blending into any space. The under-counter cabinet features two independent temperature zones and four specialised wine modes.

The Celsius Plus All-In-One Pull-Out is the world’s first all-in-one with the convenience of five water types, and a unique integrated hose system.

Liebherr’s IRBPH5170 Peak BioFresh refrigerator is heralding a food preservation revolution, with BioFresh technology extending consumable freshness with scientific intricacies.

Kitchen furniture

The modern kitchen boasts ample seating for friends and family. Most have an island bar to accommodate storage and seating. “Everybody wants an island bar,” says John. “Friends, family and the kids can be on the other side of the workspace while the host prepares food.” Of course, not every kitchen has the space. “This is where you can get an expert in to say, ok, we can knock down that wall so you can have that,” he points out.

Beautiful bar stools can reflect cool minimalism, retro chic, a modern edgy vibe or vintage charm. Stools offer a relaxed seating option to complement your kitchen.

If your island bench has a standard table attached to it for seating, opt for chairs the same style as your bar stools. Kitchen seating should ideally be comfortable, easy to clean and durable.

Modern dining tables are spaces to relax and chat, somewhere to share a meal or even use as a workspace. Opt for a round table to encourage conversation, or mix and match furniture with a bench seat and dining table.

This article was originally featured in Grand Designs issue 14.1

The post You Beauty appeared first on Completehome.

Words Karen Booth

It’s said the pull we feel towards nature is innate. That we are all hardwired to seek out the natural world and when we do, we find solace … joy, even. Biophilic design is about bringing nature into our homes in a way that is emotionally uplifting. It’s about forging connections with the outdoors, literally
and visually.

“Biophilic design means incorporating nature to create a calming space. By blending natural materials, colours and textures, you not only beautify your space but enhance your wellbeing, offering a sanctuary where you can truly relax,” says Sarah Jobse, co-founder of design duo Oak and Orange. “It’s about achieving a thoughtful blend of aesthetic beauty and emotional resonance, influenced by the world right outside your doorstep. As you incorporate nature and all its beauty into your home, remember that each choice, whether it’s through your flooring or the colour of your walls, is an opportunity to deepen your connection
with the natural world.”

Using natural materials, such as stone and timber, will bring the warmth of nature into your kitchen but materials that replicate the patterns and textures of nature, used in conjunction with earthy colour palettes, abundant natural light, plenty of greenery and organic shapes can be just as effective at achieving a sense of wellbeing.

Natural Instincts

“The natural aesthetic brings calm to the kitchen, a space that’s often busy and hectic so it’s great to bring some balance by using neutral tones and textures,” says David Bartlett, head designer and owner of Art of Kitchens. “It also makes any interior space feel welcoming and this is particularly relevant in the kitchen where you want to bring friends and family together.

“We go back to nature when we want to reconnect, so bringing that ambience into a kitchen is a brilliant way to create a haven within the home to help destress after a busy day, or relax on the weekend. It also helps promote the idea of a seamless flow, particularly between indoors and out, when we want to expand the entertaining zone to include both.”

Biophilic design is no longer considered a trend. This desire to bring the outdoors in and experience a deeper connection to nature on a daily basis is here to stay and can find expression in the kitchen in myriad ways. One is texture, which Julia Stojanovic, senior interior designer at CG Design Studio, says is key. “As nature’s offerings don’t often tend to be sleek and perfect, celebrating the tactility of each material is paramount to achieving an organic look,” she says. “Think leathered, honed and tumbled stones, notably textured timber grains, and warm ‘living’ metal finishes in tapware.

“The use of natural finishes and materials, such as a beautiful marble paired with timber-veneered cabinetry, offers not only a timeless aesthetic but a natural feel. Selecting finishes derived from natural materials, especially when handcrafted, such as Zellige and Bejmat tiles, can achieve a perfectly imperfect outcome. Textured rendered finishes can also enhance the notion that a space has been crafted from earthy, natural elements. Applying an earthy tone or warm white textured render or plaster finish to walls envelopes a space with a natural feel.”

Tempting Timber

The appeal of timber, with its warm hues and distinctive woodgrain patterns, is undeniable and can be used to bring in some texture and soften harder elements such as those you would find in an industrial-style kitchen.

Solid-wood cabinets can look amazing but timber and water don’t always mix well, so if opting for natural hardwood flooring, which will take its fair share of splashes and spills, just be sure it’s properly sealed. On the upside, timber flooring is softer under foot and quieter than tiles. There are plenty of lower-cost, lower-maintenance alternatives, though, from wood-look vinyl planks and hybrid flooring to timber grain tiles.

“One of our biggest tips for homeowners is to consider the flooring in harmony with other elements in your home, not only the interior but also outdoor living spaces,” says Sarah. “A flooring sample may look beautiful on its own, but its true essence comes out when it complements the wall colours, kitchen hues, tiles, and even the materials you’ve used on a patio. So, before laying down any flooring, ensure it aligns with the overall colour and texture palette you’ve chosen. This is the key to not only achieving a harmonious biophilic design but also adding that all-important wow factor.”

Using solid-timber for feature shelving is one way to bring in the warmth of wood and turn it into a feature if you don’t want to use solid timber elsewhere. You can also introduce the softening effect of timber in your accessories – perhaps wooden bowls for benchtops, timber stools for the breakfast bar.

High-grade timber veneer and precision-engineered decorative wood panelling is also readily available for use on interior walls, ceilings and cabinetry, providing a clean, natural look that merges interior and exterior spaces.

Set it in Stone

Natural stone for benchtops, splashbacks, feature panelling and flooring brings depth of colour, texture and the unique patterns that only Mother Nature can produce. It does comes at a price, and the stone needs to be properly sealed and maintained, but it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for a variety of reasons.

“With the regulations recently enforced surrounding composite stones, there has been a large industry gravitation towards natural stone. Stunning natural marbles, quartzites, limestones, travertines and granites have been among the preferred choices for benchtops and kitchen detailing, offering unique natural allure to kitchens. As no two natural stones are the same, the exquisite veining in each slab gives the space a sense of individualism,” says Julia.

While engineered stone is now off the table, there are stone-look solid-surface and porcelain alternatives that offer similar durability and have that sought-after natural aesthetic.

Caesarstone’s porcelain surfaces range, which replicates the look of marble, alabaster and more, is one example. Some have deep colour bases with dramatic veining, others have light white or cream bases with more delicate patterning.

Smartstone’s new stone-style porcelain Sintered collection is another. With options such as Calacatta Lusso, an Italian marble-inspired surface in which swirls of gold, amber and grey trace their way across a background of grey-white, it’s easy to go natural in a way that speaks of luxury.

Stone-look floor, wall and splashback tiles are in equally abundant supply and a cost-effective choice. colours of nature

There are countless ways to coax the colours of nature into the kitchen, creating a natural, nurturing vibe. Paint colour is one. In recent times, forest greens have been in favour, bringing deeper, moodier natural tones into the kitchen but new nature-inspired palettes are constantly being launched that make creating a natural colour scheme much easier.

Wattyl’s 2024 Autumn/Winter collection by Neale Whitaker is one example. “I live where the coast meets the country, so I am constantly inspired by nature’s ever-evolving seasonal colour palette,” says Neale. “To me, the colours of the local landscape are as impressive as those of the ocean and beach – so for this palette I focused on the subtle seasonal changes in elements such as bushes and flowers, sand, driftwood and shells. I think this palette perfectly captures those subtleties and their endless variations.

“Adding colour through painted surfaces is hands-down the most effective way of creating mood, and having drawn these colours from nature, they will never feel inappropriate or dated.”
Tiles – used for a splashback or feature –can inject a swathe of earthy colour that can be subtle or attention-grabbing, depending on the tone and finish you choose. A matt finish will give you a more subdued, natural look.

In recent years, companies such as Laminex have been prioritising palettes that evoke nature. One example is the Design Directions Collection comprised of four earthy palettes: Connected Calm, Nature’s Nurture, Energised Contrast and Sunburnt Country. The collection captures the calming qualities of nature, creating a sense of comfort while invigorating the spirit.

When choosing a colour palette, keep it consistent and ensure it resonates with your local landscape, advises Sarah. “If your home is near the coast, shades of blue, sand and weathered timber can create a serene atmosphere. If you’re closer to a bushland area, then greens, browns and earthy tones might suit you better. The aim is to create a fluid visual experience as you move from indoor to outdoor spaces,” she says. “As you incorporate nature and all its beauty into your home, remember that each choice, whether it’s through your flooring or the colour of your walls, is an opportunity to deepen your connection with the natural world.”

Going Organic

Incorporating organic shapes into the design can add to the natural feel, but that’s not all it can do. “Organic lines and curves have become a prominent cabinetry detail because they also add softness to the usually rigid or linear forms you find in a kitchen,” says Julia.

Curves and rounded forms are calming, much like watching the gentle roll of waves. Popular options are to work curves into the design of the cabinetry or to have at least one end of an island bench boast a seductive curve. The effect can be enhanced with curved pendant lights, breakfast bar stools with rounded backs, and a built-in wall niche incorporating an arched form … perhaps an oval or round dining table if you have an eat-in kitchen. Curves can also be introduced in a subtle way through cupboard and drawer handles or in the form of a gooseneck mixer tap.

While soft curves enhance a sense of wellbeing, irregular shapes are common in nature so these can be introduced as accents or a feature element. One way to do this is with the veining of natural stone which can be highly distinctive.

Favouring an organic approach can also find expression in the accessories and decor you choose. It’s often the smaller details and flourishes that make all the difference so accessorise your kitchen with natural elements like potted plants or decorative items made of timber, stone or ceramic. Prioritise kitchen furniture crafted from timber, rattan or jute; choose natural fabrics for cushions and upholstery; if having window dressings, opt for those that let in ample light to enhance the organic feel.

Decorative accents, especially those that evoke organic shapes, colours and textures are especially useful if you’re going for a strong colour palette with shades of the one colour. Adding natural contrasts with the benchtop or flooring is recommended, as is including ornamental accents of earthy but contrasting tones – perhaps terracotta jugs or pots, raffia shades for pendant lights, woven bamboo storage baskets, a ceramic vase filled with fabulous foliage or seasonal blooms.

A matter of style

“The natural aesthetic can work beautifully with a number of different styles,” says Julia. “When two or three natural materials are paired together with refined and sleek detailing, you can achieve a minimalist aesthetic. In contrast, when natural materials are layered, an artisanal, crafted look is achieved, well suited to country-style and traditional homes. When the richness is dialled up and further layering and contrast is detailed, a maximalist aesthetic can come together.”

“The biophilic approach is pretty versatile and in the hands of a skilled designer should be able to be incorporated into almost every style of kitchen,” says David. “But it does work really well with a classic-style kitchen, because this is such a versatile style, and it can be really impactful in an industrial-style kitchen where it can be used to off-set the sometimes-colder aspects of that theme.

“Depending on how the aesthetic is applied, it can also be beautifully incorporated into a modern style kitchen, again because this theme is quite broad. It can even work well in a contemporary style kitchen when applied with care – you’d want to keep it very simple and make sure the elements are understated but it can be done.

“For the ‘stronger’ styles, such as industrial or contemporary, you’d probably look for where you can use accents of natural aesthetic to complement the overall design of the kitchen without overwhelming it. For example, you could have a solid-wood block breakfast bar to really bring nature into the home without going overboard with a full wood kitchen, or you could have a stunning piece of natural stone on an island bench.”

Whatever the style, don’t overdo it, advises David. “Try to aim for a balance of tones and textures,” he says. You can go all-out but for most people it’s best to pick one natural or earthy colour that really speaks to you and see how that can be applied within the kitchen. “It could be on the benchtop, or in the tiles, or the cabinetry and you can use that to represent nature.”

Go for Greenlife

“Don’t forget to look for opportunities to add real greenery,” says David. “This could be via a window splashback so you can see the foliage outdoors, or it could be a herb garden within the kitchen for easy access while cooking.”

The concept of growing a few herbs on a sunny window sill is hardly new, but we now use our kitchens as places to eat, entertain, study and work, not just cook. Just as we would add plants to a home office or dining room, adding plants to a kitchen, whether to grow herbs or salad veg, or simply for the spirit-lifting effect of the foliage, is just as important.

Every indoor plant needs a pot, of course, and that can be turned into a decorative advantage, introducing an accent colour or interesting patterns, textures or shapes. If you’re short on shelf or bench space, hanging planters are a great way to introduce some greenery or you can go a step further with an “upside down” hanging planter such as the Boskke Sky Planter.

If you want to grow plants that need a bit more care, and if you have space and a nice sunny spot, an indoor greenhouse is an option. And if you’re super-serious about maximising your greenlife, consider an indoor vertical garden system. They are in plentiful supply and range from kit-form frames to which you attach individual pots to geotextile pockets that you fix directly to a wall.

And don’t forget the importance of capturing the view of outside greenery and establishing a literal indoor-outdoor connection. “A vista to lush greenery and an abundance of natural light can further enhance the perception of an interior,” says Julia. “The seamless transition between these spaces, including full-height, operable glazing and the continuation of flooring materiality from the interior to the exterior, offers the notion of feeling grounded and connected to nature.”

Article originally featured in Kitchen Yearbook

The post Natural Attraction appeared first on Completehome.

Throughout the three-day event, Nover showcased its latest products and solutions, engaging with visitors and industry peers. Attendees had the opportunity to experience firsthand the innovative designs and technologies shaping the future of home renovation.

Nover expressed enthusiasm about participating in such a dynamic event, recognising it as a valuable platform to connect with clients, exchange ideas, and stay ahead of emerging industry trends.

During the show, Nover showcased a curated selection of its leading brands, including Peka, Salice, Fenix, and Evostone. Visitors enjoyed exploring Peka’s sleek organisational hardware, the smooth Exedra pocket door systems from Salice, the stunning and durable surfaces by Fenix, and the versatile, high-quality benchtops from Evostone. Each product was designed to support the creation of beautiful, functional spaces built to stand the test of time.

A highlight of the event was the launch of Nover’s latest innovation — Exedra Gravity. This revolutionary pocket door system impressed guests with its smart, user-friendly technology and sleek design. Visitors were captivated by its ability to fully retract the door into the compartment when open, offering both practicality and discretion. The product drew significant interest and is set to inspire future projects — coming soon!

Nover extends a big thank you to everyone who visited the booth. The enthusiasm and conversations shared during the event made it a truly memorable experience and reinforced Nover’s commitment to delivering top-quality solutions that elevate kitchen and home design.

For those who couldn’t attend, a gallery of booth highlights from the three-day event is available here.

Nover welcomes continued connection with clients, industry peers, and anyone interested in its products. For more information or to get in touch, feel free to reach out via email — the team is always happy to help at sales@nover.com.au.

For more information

Nover

The post Nover Highlights at Kitchen & Bathroom Show 2025 appeared first on Completehome.

They were after a forever kitchen, one in which they could share long family meals and entertain guests. They requested a two-tone kitchen and personally chose the timber colour that appears on the cabinets, hero lighting and rangehood canopy. They loved the look of Silestone in Ethereal Glow, so this was selected for the splashback behind the rangehood, as well as the island.

This kitchen’s new island is made for entertaining – it’s nearly 3m long, around 1.5m deep, and boasts plenty of bench space and extra seating. There’s also a bar fridge at the side of the island, making topping up drinks during dinner parties a piece of cake.

This kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful. There’s plentiful storage, including a dedicated appliance cabinet, push-to-open cabinetry at the back of the island, Blum soft-close drawers, and tall cabinetry with inner drawers. With so much storage space, keeping this kitchen sleek and uncluttered is incredibly simple. This entertainer’s dream was exactly what the homeowners were after to elevate their home life and dinner parties.

Design & Build: Nobby Kitchens

Design response

Objective

An open kitchen with improved functionality, designed with entertaining in mind.

Solution

A sleek update to the island to open the space, clever storage solutions, and a modern two-toned design

For more information

NOBBY KITCHENS

Belrose
A HomeCo. Belrose, Shop G17, 4-6 Niangala Cl,
Belrose NSW
P 02 7209 0755

Pymble
A 19 Ryde Rd, Cnr West St, Pymble NSW
P 02 9498 1377

Castle Hill
A HomeCo. Castle Hill, Ground Level,
South Building, 16 Victoria Ave, Castle Hill NSW
P 02 9659 0769

Taren Point
A 6/120 Taren Point Rd, Taren Point NSW
P 02 8224 9688

Newcastle
A 2/66 Park Ave, Kotara NSW
P 02 4044 5620

F @NobbyKitchens
I @NobbyKitchens

The post An Entertainer’s Dream appeared first on Completehome.