2025 Kitchen Design Trends That Elevate Custom Homes, Granny Flats & Duplexes

When it comes to building a home that’s both beautiful and liveable, it’s not just the structure that matters — it’s the details inside. And in 2025, the kitchen continues to take centre stage as the heart of the home. For custom builders like Peter Cook and the team at P J Cook Building, understanding the latest in kitchen design ensures every new build, whether it’s a new home, granny flat, or duplex, delivers lasting lifestyle value.

We spoke with Rhys Armstrong, Managing Director of Envision Kitchens on the Central Coast, to explore this year’s top kitchen trends — and how thoughtful collaboration between builder and joiner creates better outcomes for clients.

“Today’s homeowners are after kitchens that not only look stunning but function effortlessly with their lifestyle. As custom builders raise the bar on quality, we’re matching that energy with tailored joinery that makes each home feel one-of-a-kind,” says Armstrong.

Here’s what’s shaping up as must-haves in kitchens for 2025 — especially in new builds, dual occupancies, and compact living spaces.

1. Bolder Colour Palettes Are In

Move over white-on-white — deep, moody tones are dominating modern kitchen design. Think navy blue cabinetry, forest green tiles, and brushed brass tapware. Envision Kitchens reports strong demand for earthy colours that create visual warmth.

“Blue Kit Kat tiles have been especially popular,” Armstrong explains. “They introduce a sense of depth and texture that elevates the entire space.”

For builders, these selections allow for more creative expression, giving homes, granny flats, and duplexes a unique design identity without relying solely on layout or façade.

2. Custom Joinery That Works Harder

Integrated appliances, hidden storage, and purpose-built cabinetry are high on clients’ wishlists, particularly for families, downsizers, or renters. Rhys notes that modern kitchens are being designed around how people actually live, not just how the space looks.

This is especially important in smaller spaces like granny flats or secondary dwellings, where every millimetre counts. Custom layouts ensure functionality without sacrificing style.

3. Texture Adds Warmth and Character

One of the biggest shifts in kitchen design is the return to tactile surfaces — from timber grain laminates to handmade splashback tiles. These elements soften modern designs and help kitchens feel inviting, not sterile.

“We often mix smooth finishes with textured accents to create layered, livable spaces,” Rhys says. “This works particularly well in open-plan designs or compact footprints where the kitchen is highly visible.”

4. Tailored Designs For Every Lifestyle

Whether it’s a growing family, a retired couple downsizing, or a multigenerational household, kitchens are being personalised to suit the people who use them. Lower benchtops, wider walkways, and smart storage zones are now part of forward-thinking design.

Builders like Peter Cook, who deliver new homes alongside duplexes and granny flats, can plan these details early in the design process to future-proof the functionality of each dwelling.

5. Seamless Built-In Aesthetics

The rise of the “integrated look” continues in 2025. Expect to see more concealed fridges, handleless cabinetry, and flush-set appliances. This streamlined approach pairs beautifully with both contemporary homes and compact dwellings.

“Clients love that ‘everything has its place’ feeling,” Rhys shares. “It’s the kind of detail that makes a kitchen feel calm and resolved — especially when backed by quality craftsmanship on both the cabinetry and construction side.”

Why It Matters for Custom Builders, Duplexes & Secondary Dwellings

For P J Cook Building, staying across emerging kitchen trends isn’t just about style — it’s about delivering a complete, cohesive experience across all types of builds. Whether it’s a high-spec new home, a well-appointed granny flat, or a smart dual-occupancy design, aligning with trusted suppliers like Envision Kitchens ensures every space is crafted with care.

As Rhys puts it:

“When the builder and joiner collaborate early, we can achieve better results. From bench heights and service locations to styling finishes — every decision feels considered and intentional.”

Whether you’re planning your dream home, a multi-dwelling investment, or a stylish granny flat for extended family, keeping kitchens at the heart of the conversation ensures you’re building spaces that serve your lifestyle for years to come.

To explore kitchen design options that pair seamlessly with your build, contact the team at P J Cook Building, or browse the latest joinery trends with Envision Kitchens.

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