How To Design A Modern Kitchen In 2025
According to the latest Houzz & Home Renovation Trends Study, the kitchen remained the most renovated interior room in 2022/2023, with 33% of survey participants updating this space, a distinction it has consistently held over the years. Given this, it’s a safe bet that the kitchen will be revealed as the most renovated interior room in their upcoming 2024/2025 reports.
But how do you design a modern kitchen in 2025? What is “modern,” anyway? Well, this is something that I want to know because I will be renovating my kitchen, along with the rest of my house, this year. And, given the considerable sum of money I will be investing back into my home, I want to make sure it’s well spent—and without design regrets!
In addition to my interests, as the head of product purchasing at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I want to ensure that we have the most modern kitchen products available to our customers. So, I researched and reached out to some industry experts to do all the work for you!
Continue reading this article to discover how to design a modern kitchen in 2025. I will share with you what to consider, what to include, and what products you can use to help with your kitchen design.
Essential Factors to Consider for a Modern Kitchen
Designing a modern kitchen in 2025 is more than just creating a kitchen that has a modern design style. There are other elements to consider, such as the layout, functionality, and storage.
Open-Plan Kitchen
The first thing that makes a kitchen modern, in my opinion, is an open-plan layout, and this is the first thing I will change with my new kitchen. The kitchen is the hub of a home; therefore, it shouldn’t be hidden away in a room. It should be the centre of a home, a space that brings people together.
A Functional Layout
In addition to designing an open-plan kitchen, you must ensure a functional layout. I’ve talked about the work triangle before, and getting this right is vital. Your kitchen needs to work for you. But it also needs to be inviting and provide plenty of storage, so keep these things in mind.
A Butler’s Pantry
If you have space, a sure way to design a modern kitchen is to include a butler’s pantry. A butler’s pantry will allow you to keep all your appliances and pantry items hidden away to leave your kitchen looking clean, free from clutter, and very minimalistic, which is very much in-trend with today’s kitchen design trends.
Kitchen Sinks
When designing a modern kitchen, the sink is an often-overlooked element that deserves attention. A functional and stylish sink enhances usability and contributes to the kitchen’s overall aesthetic.
According to Len Larking, Regional General Manager of Everhard Industries, “Stainless steel remains the market leader for its durability and resistance to wear, but modern materials like quartz and composite are becoming increasingly popular for their sleek appearance.”
Whether you opt for a classic stainless steel sink or a bold composite design, choosing the right material and configuration ensures your sink fits seamlessly into your modern kitchen layout.
Modern Kitchen Style
A modern kitchen isn’t defined by one fixed design but by its ability to incorporate current kitchen design trends and evolving aesthetics. While there’s a specific style referred to as “modern,” in practice, any popular kitchen style in Australia can be considered modern. Today’s modern kitchens are characterised by sleek lines, functional layouts, and a harmonious blend of materials, textures, and colours.
One enduring favourite is the contemporary kitchen, with its minimalist cabinetry, integrated appliances, and clean, uncluttered appearance. The emphasis here is on function and form working seamlessly together. Scandinavian kitchens, known for their light colour palettes, warm wood tones, and a focus on simplicity, are another popular choice for those who favour a bright and airy aesthetic.
For a bold and edgy look, industrial kitchen styles are making waves. Think dark colour schemes, exposed metal finishes, and statement lighting paired with raw materials like concrete and brick. These kitchens bring a sense of character and drama to modern homes.
No matter the design style, incorporating modern elements like underbench sinks, integrated storage solutions, and on-trend finishes such as matte black or brushed gold tapware ensures your kitchen feels contemporary and functional.
When planning your modern kitchen, consider blending design styles to create a unique and personalised space. For example, combining Scandinavian lightness with industrial edginess can strike a balance between warmth and boldness, while contemporary styles offer a neutral base for incorporating trend-driven details.
What to Include in a Modern Kitchen
Now that you know what to consider to design a modern kitchen, let’s look at what you need to include to pull off a modern kitchen design in 2025.
Island Bench
If you ask me, you simply cannot have a modern kitchen without an island bench! They are numero uno on the top of my list and a great way to add value to your home. An island bench can be any size and can be used for several things; you can install your sink and tap into it and use it for food preparation; you can use it as a bar to entertain dinner guests; or you can even adapt it into a dining table or breakfast bar for the family.
Moreover, there is no limit to the design options and materials you use. More often than not, however, an island bench is designed to match the other benchtops.
Stone Benchtops
When designing a modern kitchen, choosing the right benchtop is essential. Stone or engineered stone benchtops are the gold standard for achieving a sleek, contemporary look while offering unmatched durability. Unlike laminate benchtops, engineered stone combines beauty with practicality, making it a top choice for kitchens that prioritise both style and functionality. For a detailed comparison of materials, explore our guide on Stone Benchtops vs. Laminate Benchtops: Which is Better?.
Engineered stone, made from natural quartz, stands out for its durability and low maintenance. Resistant to stains, scratches, acids, and impacts, these benchtops are ideal for busy households. Their ability to retain their beauty while withstanding daily wear makes them a smart investment for any modern kitchen.
For those seeking high-quality options, Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers a premium range of engineered stone benchtops crafted to the highest standards. With a variety of colours, patterns, and textures available, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your kitchen’s aesthetic. From minimalist spaces to bold, dramatic designs, stone benchtops provide endless possibilities for creating a stunning yet functional kitchen centrepiece.
Kitchen Sinks
A modern kitchen isn’t complete without a sink that combines functionality and style. Undermount sinks, with their seamless integration and minimalist appeal, are a popular choice for contemporary designs. As Mr. Larking highlights, “Multi-use sinks continue to be highly sought after for modern kitchens, offering the flexibility of being undermounted or top-mounted, depending on the design.”
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a wide range of modern kitchen sinks to suit any style or need. From sleek undermount sinks for a seamless look to versatile top-mounted options, our collection is designed with contemporary kitchens in mind. Explore configurations like single-bowl, double-bowl, and multi-functional sinks, all crafted to enhance usability.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or simply seeking a low-maintenance solution, you’ll find stylish finishes like brushed stainless steel, gunmetal grey, and matte black that add a striking touch to your kitchen.
Tiled Kitchen Splashback
A tiled kitchen splashback is a must-have for modern kitchens, offering both functionality and an opportunity to make a design statement. Beyond protecting your walls from spills and splatters, tiles add texture, colour, and style that can transform your kitchen into a truly contemporary space. From bold retro patterns and artisan designs to sleek marble and textured tiles, the latest tile trends are tailor-made for kitchen splashbacks.
To explore some of the most popular styles, check out tiled kitchen splashback ideas for inspiration.
With so many options available, a tiled splashback is one of the most versatile design elements you can incorporate into your kitchen. Whether you opt for a classic subway tile, a vibrant patterned design, or a luxurious marble finish, tiles provide endless opportunities to create a unique feature that elevates your space.
If you’re planning to install your own splashback, don’t miss our detailed guide, ‘How to Tile a Kitchen Splashback,’ for step-by-step instructions and expert tips.
Matte Black Tapware
Nothing captures contemporary design quite like matte black tapware. Sleek, bold, and effortlessly stylish, matte black taps have become a staple in modern kitchens. They add a touch of sophistication and contrast to any design, whether paired with a minimalist white benchtop or a bold industrial aesthetic.
Today, the variety of matte black kitchen taps rivals that of bathroom fixtures, offering endless possibilities to suit your style. For a truly modern look, opt for a mixer-style tap over a traditional three-piece set. Mixer taps not only look sleek but are also more practical, especially for busy households. Pull-out mixers with spray attachments provide added functionality, blending style with convenience.
If you’re ready to embrace this trend, explore the latest in matte black tapware to find the perfect fit for your kitchen. From pull-out mixers to vege spray taps, matte black options offer both form and function, making them an excellent choice for any modern kitchen. Read our post, The Best Black Kitchen Taps for Your Kitchen Makeover, to discover our top recommendations.
Conclusion
Designing a modern kitchen in 2025 requires a balance of functionality, style, and the latest trends. As kitchens remain the heart of the home, it’s essential to create a space that is practical yet aesthetically pleasing. Whether it’s incorporating sleek underbench sinks, an open-plan layout, or on-trend finishes like matte black tapware and stone benchtops, each decision shapes the kitchen into a reflection of modern living.
With expert insights and industry trends guiding the way, this guide equips you with everything you need to design a kitchen that is not only timeless but also value-adding. From incorporating key elements like island benches and butler’s pantries to choosing products that enhance usability and style, every aspect plays a critical role in achieving a functional and beautiful space.
For inspiration and the latest in kitchen design trends, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre. With a wide selection of high-quality products, from cabinets to tiles and tapware, you’ll find everything you need to create your dream kitchen—all in one place. Start your journey today and let your kitchen become the centrepiece of your home in 2025.