Words Carrol Baker

The hottest design trends this year are focused on splashes of colour, beautiful textures and sophisticated looks. They’re not just pushing the boundaries but rewriting the rule books with playful adaptations and clever materiality.

A kitchen needs to be practical and functional. It can also be beautiful. It’s where you can feed the hungry hordes after school, pull up a chair and have a cuppa with a friend, or host a gathering of epic proportions. Bathrooms are all about serviceability. Yours might be a busy multi-use family bathroom, a private couples space, a room with a touch of luxe or a wellness sanctuary to unwind. Functionality and beauty can co-exist in style, offering dynamic spaces you’ll love.

Hooked on Handles

One fabulous new way to create a unique look in your kitchen or bathroom is through handles. Designer Kate Lawrence says sometimes it can be the seemingly little things that can have the biggest impact. “You can have a lot of fun and experiment with handles in the kitchen or bathroom to give it a little extra flair,” she says. Whether they’re arched, bar, cupped, nobs, pulls or more, there’s a huge variety of handle styles.

Get Playful with Powder Rooms

Statement powder rooms are gaining traction in the design industry. Kate says it’s one space you really can have fun with. Try bold wallpaper to add a splash of contemporary cool, or a more subdued botanical print. “It’s a small space so easy to change down the track if you need to,” notes Kate. “It keeps things upbeat and fun for families and friends coming to your home.” Among Kate’s favourite looks is micro cement. “I love it; you can trowel it different ways so it adds texture, and it’s customisable with different colours,” she says.

The Light Source

Beautiful lighting that once graced the entry foyer has now made its way into the bathroom. Lighting can help you to create a stylish oasis at home. Designer Brooke Aitken says it’s a new concept that is adding a frisson of glamour to bathrooms.

Brooke points out that in the past, you were limited with what lighting you could use. “Lighting wasn’t IP rated for wet areas, but with LEDs the world is your oyster, and not an oyster sconce either,” she laughs. “Your lighting can now be almost like jewellery pieces on the wall; it can serve as a focal point.”

But of course, practicality still reigns supreme. Task lighting is also important. One new look in bathrooms is lighting in a mirror cupboard. “Always put a light in the mirror cupboard that shines out; when you open half you can still see yourself in the mirror, it’s very practical,” she recommends.

The Ultimate Family Kitchen

The girls at Three Birds Renovations say they’re loving the rise of freestanding island benches in place of built-in cabinetry. “We’ve just used one in our latest kitchen renovation. They add flexibility and character, channel that vintage farmhouse charm, and can easily adapt as your family’s needs evolve.”

The girls add that there’s been a shift away from all-white cabinetry, with more kitchens embracing warm neutrals and deeper hues. “Textured layers of cream, beige/greige, deep greens, blues and even browns are not only beautiful, they’re also super forgiving when it comes to fingerprints in a busy family kitchen,” Three Birds Renovations say. “That said, if you’re renovating a Hampton’s-style home, a fresh white kitchen will never go out of style.”

Look Up

In bathrooms, another surprising trend is rethinking the ceiling. Joey Phommaseng from Birdblack Design says ceilings are in for a treat. “Traditionally seen as just a flat, white surface, the bathroom ceiling is now being treated by designers as a fifth wall – an opportunity to add visual interest and cohesion. Whether through bold paint choices or creative tiling, the ceiling is becoming an extension of the room’s design,” he notes. It’s a shift away from ultra-safe design towards more personal, luxurious choices – people are designing for living, not just resale,” he adds.

Tactile Textures

Modern kitchens are showpieces in functionality and bespoke design. Joey says in today’s kitchens, there’s a rising trend to incorporate metal finishes. “Custom–coated metal rangehoods, for example, are becoming a popular design statement,” he says. “Stone-clad surfaces are also gaining momentum, with kitchen doors and drawers increasingly being covered in stone for a bold, textural look. Homeowners are moving away from the minimalist timber cabinets and plain benchtops of the past, opting instead for dramatic patterned marbles, striking feature tiles and detailed mosaics.”

Balancing Act

In the kitchen, industry professionals are cooking up plenty of hot new looks to create timeless spaces that have plenty of charm. Kate says discerning homeowners know what they want – and right now it’s to create something unique, even if they have a traditional kitchen. “So many people tell me they want their kitchen to be timeless but not boring. It’s important to strike a balance between the two,” she shares.

Kate adds there are many ways to inject a little pizazz into a traditional kitchen. One way is through stone. “You can add character, personality and warmth, particularly by the stone that you are choosing – every piece of stone is different as it’s a natural product,” she notes.

A Splash of Luxury

Bathroom colours are bold, evocative and inviting. Joey says a rich palette of deep, burnished bronzes is a top choice for creating a luxurious bathroom atmosphere. “Fluted glass is another hallmark of high-end design. Whether featured in a sleek, frameless shower screen or paired with a beautifully finished frame, it adds instant elegance.”

When it comes to tiling, Joey says mosaics are a go-to for a premium look. “For an even more opulent touch, consider natural stone for floors and walls, which brings a timeless sophistication beyond what standard tiles can offer,” he says.

Stepping it up

When the pandemic swept the globe, we lived in isolation in the comfort of our homes. Spending more time at home meant thinking about what we loved about our spaces. Brooke says because of this, designers have seen a global shift in home design. “It’s become more individually focussed after Covid, because we had to live more in our spaces,” she says. “It really made people reflect on what they love about their interiors and how they impact on them psychologically.”

As a result, Brooke notes clients have become a little braver and eager to perhaps colour outside the lines a bit more. “I think clients are more trustworthy; they think, right, you’re going to pitch me a colourful bathroom idea, yep, I am definitely onboard,” she says.

Sumptuous Materiality

Unique designer elements are working together to curate bespoke and beautiful bathrooms. Stylish basins and bathtubs are taking centre stage.

When sourcing a basin, look for something tactile and unique. That’s Brooke’s advice. “I love Robert Gordon pottery – it’s hand-fired clay and simply beautiful. Also Nood concrete basins and bathtubs,” she says. “Your choice of basin is important as it’s something you touch and look at every day when brushing your teeth and getting ready for the day.”

Custom-coloured bathtubs are also becoming increasingly popular as a way to add a little colour to your bathroom. “There are amazing baths out there now – think a dark-green glass bath, a bath made from viola marble or beautiful copper,” reveals Brooke.

Lean into Longevity

Modern kitchens are built to go the distance. A beautiful kitchen is an investment you’ll want to enjoy for many years to come. When designing a new kitchen, sourcing quality materials is key. Discerning homeowners want value for money and a kitchen that’s built to last for decades.

Brooke says kitchens these days should last 30 years, so when designing, keep that in mind. “If there’s something crazy you are contemplating in the design, I wouldn’t,” she says. “It’s got to be something you want to feast your eyes on for a very long time.

”New-look kitchens need to bode well with the rest of the home. Brooke suggests with an older abode, you can take the character of the old and interpret it into the new. “It’s an opportunity to have a contemporary conversation with something like period detailing,” she says. “In a recent project we took iron-lace detailing and scored that detailing into the top cupboard in the kitchen. It was reminiscent of the iron lace of the past.

”If you have a contemporary home, it can be a different story. “With contemporary, sometimes it doesn’t need to shout,” notes Brooke. “That’s where I’d double down on materials, look for beautiful-quality stone and good appliances.”

Looks to sidestep

Finally, it’s important to note that the lure of trends is appealing, but some don’t last long. The girls at Three Birds Renovations say they’re all for creating your dream home your way, and that means different things for different people. “But when it comes to trends, some don’t last the distance and your budget might thank you for steering clear,” they say.

“In the kitchen, unless you’re a MasterChef contestant, we’d suggest saving your dollars on overly techy appliances like that fridge that tells you what’s inside, or a steam oven when you’ve never steamed anything but your face in the dishwasher. In the bathroom, be wary of super-trendy coloured fixtures. If you’re not absolutely in love with bold colours for the long haul, stick with timeless neutrals and have fun with your accessories instead.”

The post Dream Team appeared first on Completehome.

Designed as a hands-on, experience-led environment, the centre invites architects, interior designers, cabinetmakers and builders to engage directly with Hettich’s latest cabinetry hardware innovations. Rather than a static display, the space demonstrates how precision engineering, intelligent functionality and considered design can enhance residential and commercial interiors across kitchens, wardrobes, living spaces and beyond.

The move to the Waterloo Design Centre marks a strategic step for Hettich Australia, positioning the brand among a curated collection of premium interior suppliers. The new location reflects Hettich’s commitment to active participation within Sydney’s design landscape while providing a central hub for specification and inspiration.

Visitors can explore the full breadth of Hettich drawer systems, from the AvanTech YOU Illumination range to the precision performance of Actro 5D runners. The seamless movement of WingLine folding doors is on display, alongside the versatility of the Cadro framing system and integrated lighting solutions designed to elevate both aesthetics and usability. Hettich’s Interior Fittings range is thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabinetry, while FurnSpin features extensively, allowing guests to experience its distinctive translatory rotational movement across multiple kitchen applications.

The space unfolds as a series of immersive, residential-inspired environments, including kitchen pantries, wardrobes, outdoor kitchens and alfresco zones. Each setting is designed to spark ideas and demonstrate how hardware can shape the way a space looks, feels and functions.

The Hettich Experience Centre also showcases contributions from valued collaborators including Laminex, Cosentino, Signature Floors, ABI Interiors, Austaron Surfaces, Egger, Quadro Concepts , Fisher & Paykel, Brand Dimensions, many of whom partnered with Hettich.

Design professionals are invited to book a personalised showroom experience and explore the full product offering online at designwithhettich.au/showroom-appointment.

For more information

HETTICH
P 1800 687 789

The post Hettich opens Sydney Experience Centre appeared first on Completehome.

Brands including Verdecor, Basistem, Aeroframe, Voxaura and Hessen are showcased through carefully resolved applications. Each contributes to a layered design language, from refined surface finishes and precision hardware to engineered storage and architectural lighting, demonstrating how individual components come together to create cohesive interiors.

Particular attention is given to craftsmanship and material quality. Visitors are invited to engage directly with the products. They can see the depth of finishes, feel the accuracy of joinery and experience the smooth operation of functional systems. Many of the materials and solutions on display are rarely seen within the local market, offering new combinations and fresh perspectives on contemporary design.

Distinctive functional features and bespoke detailing throughout the showroom provide valuable reference points for both designers and homeowners. These real-world applications illustrate how innovative materials and systems can be applied with clarity, restraint and confidence.

For designers, the showroom serves as a practical framework for exploration that connects concept with execution. For homeowners, it offers a tangible way to understand how thoughtful design translates into everyday living.

At Knox One, contemporary interior design is not simply presented. It is experienced through material, craft and considered detail.

For more information

SHOWROOM BY KNOX ONE
E sales@verdecor.com.au
I verdecor_aus
F Verdecor Aus

The post Inspiration starts here appeared first on Completehome.

The kitchen and the bathroom are the rooms that determine everything. They are where a brief becomes a budget, where a mood board meets reality, and where the gap between a good renovation and an exceptional one is decided, quietly, by a thousand specification choices most homeowners never see being made.

On Saturday 13 June, you can see them being made.

Kitchen+Bath Show is Australia’s only trade event dedicated entirely to kitchen and bathroom design. Held at ICC Sydney in Darling Harbour and co-located with Design Show Australia and Futurebuild Australia, it is where the country’s leading kitchen designers, bathroom specialists, architects and builders discover, compare and specify the products that will define the next generation of Australian homes. For two days it belongs to the trade. On Saturday, it opens to you.

Where the decisions actually happen

There is a version of renovation research that happens online, in showrooms, across a dozen separate appointments stretched over months. And then there is this: tapware, cabinetry hardware, surfaces, tiles and appliances from the brands that set the standard, all under one roof, on one day, with your designer or architect beside you.

Brands including Nero, Blum, Hafele, Hettich, American Standard, Bora, Polytec and Unox Casa represent the calibre of what is on the floor. These are not retail ranges. This is the full trade catalogue, the products specified in the kitchens and bathrooms that stop people in their tracks, presented in a format that makes comparison not just possible but immediate.

Touch the tapware against the surface it will sit beside. Open the drawer system and understand why the joinery quote is what it is. See the appliance in context, not in a brochure. The show floor was designed for exactly this kind of hands-on, side-by-side decision-making. It rewards homeowners who arrive with a project, a professional and a point of view.

Come with the people designing or building your home

Kitchen+Bath Show is not a consumer expo. There are no giveaways, no retail pressure. What there is, is the unfiltered trade view of where kitchen and bathroom design is heading, and the rare opportunity to move through it with the person who will actually be specifying your home.

The homeowners who get the most from Saturday are those who arrive with their kitchen designer, interior designer, architect or builder. The conversation that happens on a show floor, in front of an actual product, is a different conversation entirely. Decisions that might have taken weeks resolve in an afternoon. Your brief sharpens. Their specification follows.

If your renovation is still in the planning stage, this is precisely the right moment to attend. If it is already underway, this is where you close the gaps.

The full picture, under one roof

Your Kitchen+Bath Show registration also gives you access to Design Show Australia and Futurebuild Australia. The surfaces, textiles, furniture and lighting that complete your interiors. The building systems and materials that shape everything inside them. Because in practice, nothing in a home is considered in isolation, and neither is this show.

Early-bird tickets are available now for $30, rising to $50 from 13 June and on the door. Register now at kitchenandbathshow.com.au

Kitchen+Bath Show | 13 June 2026 (Public) | ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour Co-located with Design Show Australia and Futurebuild Australia

The post The Trade Secret, Open for One Day Only appeared first on Completehome.

Words Virginia Bishop, designer & director, Virginia Bishop Interiors
Photography Francoise Baudet Photography

No matter the size of your kitchen, it’s the finishes you choose and the layout that best dictates how you use the space that creates true luxury.

Time Is The Ultimate Luxury

You may have the most on-trend kitchen, but if it doesn’t function well, it will never feel luxurious. Does the space work for you? Or are you working for it?

Make sure your kitchen is set up in zones for time efficiency. Cooking zone, prep zone, food storage, general storage and a cleaning zone. Locate the bin drawer right next to the sink and dishwasher so that in one motion you can wipe-rinse-stack.

You might also want to consider dishwasher drawers so that you are not constantly bending down to load and unload the dishwasher. Locate the dishwasher a pivot away from cutlery and crockery drawers to lessen the unloading time and perhaps reduce barriers to others helping with chore completion.

In the cooking zone, position the cooktop and the ovens close by so you can easily move pans off the stove and into the oven and vice versa. Ideally ovens work best at bench height or above. You could also consider brands that have non-traditional openings, such as doors that slide out of the way under the oven or open to one side for easier access.

Budget Concerns

You do not need a bottomless budget for a high-end outcome. A well-positioned original piece of art goes a long way in elevating a space and giving it the character you are hoping for.

You may already have a special piece in mind. This should be integrated into the layout at the design planning stage of your kitchen.

Original art does not need to blow the budget. Visit your local galleries to find an artist whose work you admire. Alternatively, there are affordable art fairs and online art platforms where you can find beautiful pieces.

Curves are still a leading trend, but they can be expensive. There are ways to incorporate them that won’t break the budget. Instead of a curved stone island, for example, consider a small tile or laminate on the curved vertical surfaces instead.

When it comes to finishes, the use of natural stone is an enduring luxury. However, there are some harder-wearing natural options you may wish to consider in order to better fit the budget. A granite or quartzite can be a hardier option that is also more stain- and chip-resistant.

A place for everything

Open plan is here to stay, along with the desire to “put things away”. The simple luxury of a clutter-free bench cannot be overrated. A butler’s pantry is still a much-needed zone in family homes, especially for being able to leave everyday appliances out or have the breakfast station ready to go in the early mornings.

Alternatively, pocket doors that disappear into a dedicated narrow cabinet on either side of the space allow you to open up a work area. This can be ideal for a busy family.

Measure Twice

If you are nervous about fully seeing the vision of your space, ask your designer for a three-dimensional render to “walk through” virtually. Additionally, there are suppliers that can set up a full-sized white carcass version of your new kitchen so that you can experience it in real life and interact with it to see if the new layout feels intuitive for you.

These options are all achieved before you finalise the plans, providing you with the opportunity to make changes before finishes are applied. Once the trades are on site and all your fixtures and finishes are purchased, things start getting expensive to change.

Luxury Trends To Look Out For

Thankfully there is never just one trend. This leaves room for personalising your space.

Colour is making a comeback. Nothing says luxury like colour-drenching your entire room, ceiling included, in that one bold colour you just love. Equally, the use of a kaleidoscope of bold colours being used in the one space is on the rise. Goodbye to real estate white!

This year, at the Solone design fair in Milan, there was a resurgence of stainless steel. Reflective surfaces are making a return. We saw more mixed metals used in cabinetry and rangehoods, along with the return of mirrored surfaces to reflect light and views.

Finally, with the rapid rise in AI and technology, the shift we have seen to the natural and textural is here to stay. The uniqueness of stone will be around for a long time yet. In addition, locally crafted bespoke items will always have a unique story to tell and will become the luxuries of the not-so-distant future.

Don’t Be Left In The Dark

When it comes to lighting, consider smart lighting that follows the colour temperature cycle of the day. This will further enhance natural circadian rhythms, improving sleep cycles and overall health. There are many smart home devices that fit all budgets that can help with this.

Look to incorporating a device station or drawer with a power source so that devices can be put away to charge – preferably over mealtimes so you and your family can enjoy a meal without digital distractions.

The True Luxury In Life

The kitchen is the centre of most homes and the backdrop to your life. It’s where families and friends gravitate for sustenance of the stomach and the soul. When a kitchen is designed and built well, it will be a joy for all every time it is used.

For more information

Virginia Bishop Interiors

The post The Ultimate Luxury appeared first on Completehome.

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.