Metricon
Building a new home is a big investment, so you need to choose styles that will last the distance.
Kitchens and bathrooms are the workhorses of a family home – high traffic areas and super-functional. However, because we also spend a lot of time in these spaces, it’s important that they look great and reflect your personality at the same time.
We spoke to Lisa Goodsall, National Display Home Manager at Metricon, about the designs and fixtures homeowners want right now – and into the future.
Kitchen trends we love
It’s known as the heart of the home and the centre of family life, and Lisa Goodsall says that modern kitchens are designed to feel both elevated and effortless.
“Families want generous proportions, oversized island benches, integrated refrigeration and fully functioning butler’s pantries that allow the main space to remain calm and curated,” she says. “The working triangle is still fundamental, but it’s now layered with additional functionality, extra sinks, space for a second dishwasher and beautifully concealed storage so the kitchen feels serene rather than busy.”
1. Curved forms
Curves are everywhere in modern kitchens, but are particularly found on joinery, such as overhead open shelving. Archways are also popular, often used as a subtle connection between the kitchen and butler’s pantry or laundry. Oval-shaped island benches are being seen in many new builds, softening the straight lines and crisp surfaces of the cooking zone, and creating a gentler, more welcoming aesthetic. Round stools and curvaceous light fittings help to soften the spaces even further.
2. Stone benchtops
Hard-wearing, beautiful and practical, stone benchtops are here to stay – and often becoming the focus of a kitchen’s design.
“Stone is being treated almost like artwork,” says Metricon’s Lisa Goodsall. “We’re seeing growing confidence around expressive veining and natural stone aesthetics, particularly designs that emulate marble or travertine. Oversized islands with waterfall edges add both drama and functionality, and these stone selections are often carried into laundries and bathrooms for continuity. The result feels luxurious yet practical.”
3. Layered lighting
Good lighting is critical for kitchens. Lisa says that “a well-lit kitchen transitions beautifully throughout the day, practical in the morning, atmospheric at night”. She argues that you need to include a variety of lighting solutions in a kitchen.
“That flexibility is key to creating a home that truly supports daily life,” she says.
“Lighting should always be layered. Sculptural pendants above the island create a focal point, while coordinating fixtures above the dining table visually connect the zones. Under-cabinet lighting is essential for task functionality, but it also provides subtle ambience. We’re incorporating softer, concealed lighting to enhance warmth and depth in the evenings.”
4. Drawers
Ditching cupboards for drawers has been a popular trend for the last few years – and it’s one that isn’t going away soon. Drawers are much more space-efficient (no more hidden dark corners or awkward hard-to-reach areas), making them great on a day-to-day basis. Consider placing crockery and glasses in drawers next to your dishwasher for easy unpacking and utilising larger drawers for pots and pans.
5. Tiles as design statements
With the classic white kitchen still popular with new homeowners, many are choosing to add a pop of colour (and some personality) through the use of tile splashbacks, especially in shades of green and blue. Consider a solid wall of subway tiles in a soft blue, but laid vertically for a modern twist, or square tiles with a handmade finish for an authentic feel.
“Natural stone aesthetics continue to dominate,” says Lisa. “Digital-printed replicas of marble and travertine allow homeowners to achieve an organic, luxurious look with durability and value in mind. Earthy palettes, warm sands, soft beiges and muted greens, are leading, reinforcing the broader shift toward sanctuary-style homes.”
Bathroom trends we love
Gone are the days when the bathroom was just a utility room. In many new Metricon homes, bathrooms are now designed as calm sanctuaries that offer a retreat from the stress of everyday life. Think luxury fittings and elegant surfaces, punctuated by designer lighting for both ambience and tasks.
1. Wet rooms
Open-plan bathrooms are increasingly popular, especially when combined with walk-in showers, because they enhance openness and spatial flow.
Lisa Goodsall says that while full wet rooms are less common due to cost considerations, the desire for seamless, expansive shower zones is strong. “Again, it comes back to proportion and light, creating bathrooms that feel generous, tranquil and beautifully resolved,” she says.
2. Freestanding baths
Most new builds are opting for a freestanding bath, especially in the main bathroom. “Freestanding baths remain highly sought after because they create a sculptural focal point and elevate the entire room,” says Lisa. “A solid-surface freestanding bath paired with warm lighting and tactile materials brings that hotel-like retreat feeling into everyday life.”
3. Floor-to-ceiling tiles
Tiling from floor to ceiling in a bathroom used to be seen as a luxury, but it is now a common inclusion in many new builds, especially for those with walk-in shower areas as they provide excellent waterproofing abilities. Consider adding in a statement wall of highly patterned tiles as a feature, offset by more subtle designs on the other walls.
4. Grout as a design detail
The humble tile grout has become a new design tool, with bathrooms now featuring grout that matches the tiles for a seamless look, or in a contrasting colour to highlight unusual tile patterns or add a graphic touch.
“Coloured grout is being used thoughtfully, particularly in tonal palettes that complement natural stone-look tiles,” explains Lisa. “It can subtly define shape and pattern without overpowering the design. Fluted and ribbed textures are also becoming key elements in vanities and wall detailing, adding depth and interest while maintaining a calm, cohesive aesthetic.”
5. Curves
Kitchens are not the only curvaceous rooms emerging in contemporary homes. Bathrooms are getting all curvy with it too!
“Curves, arches and softened forms are shaping bathrooms in a meaningful way,” says Lisa.
“Rounded mirrors, curved vanities and organic bath silhouettes introduce a sense of calm and fluidity. Bathrooms are increasingly designed as restorative spaces, almost day-spa inspired. The addition of curves, ambient lighting and layered textures transforms them from purely functional rooms into personal sanctuaries.”
