The latest kitchen design trends

If you're across the new kitchen design trends, it will give you the edge. From colours and cabinetry to sustainability and smarter appliances, the kitchens of 2026 are shaping up to be calmer, cleaner and more connected than ever.

The just-launched Trends Range from Kaboodle Kitchen sets the tone for what’s ahead, with six beautiful cabinetry colours inspired by nature. They tap into the shift for earthy, grounded palettes and give a versatile, ready-to-install solution. According to the design experts we spoke to, it’s all about muted greens and beiges, multifunctional layouts, sustainable upgrades and smart technology.

Tim Allen, a carpenter with Kaboodle Kitchen who has installed numerous kitchens throughout the past few years, agrees. Even before working for Kaboodle, Tim says the manufacturer of modular joinery solutions became his top choice for one simple reason: it works. “If you’re not using Kaboodle, you’re missing out on affordable, reliable options that give you real control over timing and budget,” he says. “I could install a full kitchen in just a few days without waiting on custom joinery. It’s easy to work with and the quality stacks up.” Tim and our design experts, Claire Richardson and Monique Sartor, share the six new kitchen design trends you’ll want to be on top of for your clients. Trend colours take approximately 4–6 weeks to be made and are available via Special Order, so it’s worth factoring this into your project timeline.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves and a mask, for example) when required on the job. Always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Popular kitchen colour schemes

Say farewell to the all-white kitchen because that safe bet is on the way out. These days, homeowners want more warmth and depth – think sage, pistachio, beige and natural greys. “These muted, earthy tones foster a sense of calm. We’re designing kitchens to feel more like living spaces, and these colours are the key to creating that grounded, mindful feel,” Claire, Principal Interior Designer at Revel Design, says. “And they pair beautifully with timber and bronze,” adds Monique, founder of Sartorial Interiors.

The latest kitchen colour schemes

Kaboodle Kitchen has revealed the six new hues in its Trends Range.

• Pistachio: A soft, modern green that pairs beautifully with timber and crisp whites. Clean and calming.
• Saltbush: A deeper green that’s great for a rich contrast. For a high-end look, pair it with brass or bronze hardware.
• Cannellini: A warm, versatile neutral that’s easy to build a kitchen around. Perfect for clients who want flexibility.
• Truffle Oak: You get that real woodgrain feel – use this colour to warm up a space or as a feature panel.
• Oyster: A gorgeous, cool-toned grey with a bit of depth. Refined and understated, it looks sharp with black tapware.
• Juniper: This deep, misty blue sets a serene, airy tone. Use it in a butler’s pantry or for contrast on a kitchen island.

Kitchen islands for multitasking

Kitchen islands are no longer just for meal prep – they’re doubling as dining tables, complete cooking stations, storage zones and integrated appliance hubs. “Homeowners want that all-in-one location where they can cook, chat, help with homework and entertain,” Monique says. “We’re designing more islands with integrated storage, pull-out bins, power points and seating.” The modular cabinetry of Kaboodle Kitchen makes it easy to build and personalise these highly functional centrepieces for the kitchens, even in small or oddly shaped spaces. “The ability to customise cabinet and benchtop widths means you can create a tailored, designer-look island without blowing out the client’s budget,” Tim says. “It also gives you the flexibility to work with almost any footprint – and the result always looks well-finished.”

Tip: Did you know Bunnings Trade offers a Supply and Install Service, where we provide builders and developers the solutions they need in joinery, flooring, plasterboard and more? Simply send us your project scope and we will provide a written quote and/or arrange to meet with you about your requirements.

Textured Finishes

Visual warmth has been big and will continue as a focal point for design and execution. “It’s not just about colour, texture is what brings a kitchen to life,” Claire says. She points to V-groove panelling, timber-look cabinetry and even seating nooks as ways to soften hard surfaces and make a kitchen feel more comfortable and lived-in. Finishes like Kaboodle Kitchen’s new Truffle Oak and Oyster pair beautifully with stone or concrete, giving you the flexibility to mix materials while keeping the overall palette cohesive.

Sustainability credentials

Today’s homeowners are more eco-conscious and they want a kitchen that reflects it. Energy efficiency, durable materials and water-saving tech are all important parts of the brief to consider.

Lead-free tapware, which avoids harmful heavy metals, is a small change with big impact. Induction cooktops, FSC-certified timbers and low-VOC finishes are also becoming the norm.

Clean, no-fuss lines

Simplicity is still king. From flat-front cabinetry to push-to-open drawers and curved tapware, another focus is on creating clean, open spaces that feel easy to live in. “Handle-free cabinets are big – people love the seamless look,” Monique says. “It’s all about keeping things relaxed and clutter-free.”

Smart appliances

Technology in the kitchen isn’t about gimmicks, it’s about making a busy life easier. Voice-controlled lighting, ovens that auto-adjust, fridges with internal cameras and taps that deliver boiling water on demand are all becoming more accessible and easier to work into kitchens. “Clients want the tech, but they don’t want to see it,” Monique says. “It needs to be intuitive, not intrusive – think integrated charging stations, layouts that hide cables and seamless storage for smart appliances.”

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