Top 10 Kitchen Design Styles in Australia

Kitchens are one of the most functional and frequently used spaces in any home, which is why they’re often the first room homeowners consider when planning a renovation. Whether you’re updating an outdated kitchen or creating a fresh new look, finding the right kitchen design style is essential to achieving a space that’s both stylish and practical.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation this year, now is the perfect time to explore different kitchen design ideas. While modern and contemporary styles remain popular, there are many other styles to consider, each with unique features that cater to different tastes and needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 kitchen design styles in Australia to help you find the perfect match for your home. From classic to cutting-edge, these styles offer inspiration and guidance to help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Whether you’re looking for a timeless aesthetic or the latest trend, these kitchen ideas will provide the foundation for a beautiful and functional space.

1. Contemporary Kitchens

Contemporary kitchens top the list as the most popular kitchen design style in Australia, and for good reason. Known for their clean lines, seamless functionality, and a blend of modern and traditional elements, contemporary kitchens offer a timeless and versatile design that suits both busy families and sophisticated homes.

A hallmark of contemporary kitchens is their streamlined aesthetic. These spaces focus on uncluttered surfaces, minimalistic cabinetry, and high functionality. To achieve this look, consider sleek, handleless cabinets, integrated appliances, and a neutral palette with subtle pops of colour. A contemporary kitchen is not just about looks; it’s about creating a workspace that’s both stylish and incredibly practical.

Design Tips for a Contemporary Kitchen:

• Create a Focal Point: Use a striking splashback, a feature wall, or a bold benchtop to draw the eye. Patterned tiles or glass splashbacks can add visual interest and are perfect for this style.
• Colour Balance: Achieve the perfect balance with a 60-30-10 rule: 60% dominant colour, 30% secondary colour, and 10% accent colour. Neutral tones like white, grey, and beige often work well as dominant colours, while accents like matte black or metallics can add depth.
• Choose Sleek Appliances and Fixtures: Opt for stainless steel, white, or panel-ready appliances that blend into the cabinetry. Stainless steel or chrome fixtures maintain the clean look, while black fixtures add a modern touch.
• Minimal Decor, Maximum Functionality: Avoid clutter and focus on efficient storage solutions to keep surfaces clear. Integrated storage and built-in organisers help maintain the streamlined look.

Australian contemporary kitchens are a true blend of style and functionality, offering a design that feels both fresh and enduring. If you’re looking to achieve an effortlessly modern yet practical space, this style is a top choice for Australian homes.

2. Modern Kitchens

Modern kitchens are a favourite kitchen design style among Australians, nearly as popular as contemporary kitchens but with a unique twist. While contemporary kitchens blend traditional and modern elements for a timeless look, modern kitchens focus on a minimalist, streamlined aesthetic with trendy, up-to-date features.

A modern kitchen is characterised by clean, sleek lines and an open, inclusive layout that often flows seamlessly into living areas. Unlike contemporary kitchens, which may feature more decorative elements, modern kitchens embrace simplicity and avoid anything overly elaborate. The emphasis is on creating a fresh, functional, and unfussy space that feels open and uncluttered.

Design Tips for a Modern Kitchen:

• Focus on the Layout: Begin with an open and efficient layout that maximises space and integrates smoothly with the rest of your home. Modern kitchens often use island or peninsula layouts for a more inclusive, social environment. For guidance on layouts, see What Is Your Kitchen Layout Preference?.
• Choose Sleek, Minimalistic Cabinets: Opt for flat-panel or handleless cabinets in neutral shades or natural tones. High-gloss finishes and matte textures are popular choices, adding a contemporary edge to the minimalist design.
• Neutral Colours with Bold Accents: Stick to a neutral palette as the base, incorporating shades like white, grey, or charcoal. To add character, use bold accent colours sparingly—such as matte black fixtures or bright-coloured stools.
• Minimal Decor, Maximum Functionality: Accessories and decor are kept to a minimum, but storage is maximised. Built-in organisers, hidden storage, and integrated appliances keep the kitchen sleek and uncluttered.

Modern Australian kitchens are the perfect choice for those who want a trendy yet timeless space. The sleek, minimal design aligns perfectly with our high-quality gloss white kitchen cabinets at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. With their smooth, handleless finish and versatile style, our cabinets enhance the clean, uncluttered look essential to a modern kitchen, providing the perfect foundation for a fresh and functional space.

3. Hamptons Kitchens

Over the last few years, Hamptons kitchens have become one of the most sought-after kitchen design style ideas in Australia. Inspired by the relaxed elegance of coastal homes in the Hamptons, this style combines classic design elements with a light and airy feel, creating a space that’s both sophisticated and inviting.

Hamptons kitchens are characterised by shaker-style cabinetry, natural textures, and a soft colour palette of whites, creams, and light blues. This style emphasises open, spacious layouts with plenty of room for entertaining and family gatherings. Decorative details, such as panelled cabinetry, pendant lighting, and traditional tapware, add to the elegance of the Hamptons look while keeping the space feeling relaxed and welcoming.

Design Tips for a Hamptons Kitchen:

• Focus on Classic Shaker Cabinets: Shaker-style cabinets are a staple of the Hamptons look. Their clean lines and classic appeal bring a timeless touch to the kitchen. Our gloss white cabinets at Ross’s Discount Home Centre perfectly suit this style, offering the ideal foundation for creating an authentic Hamptons-inspired kitchen.
• Select Coastal Splashbacks and Stone Benchtops: A classic subway tile or a marble-look splashback complements the Hamptons aesthetic perfectly. Paired with a light-coloured stone benchtop, these finishes enhance the fresh, airy feel that defines this style. Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers a selection of splashback tiles and benchtops to help achieve this look.
• Incorporate Natural Materials and Textures: A Hamptons kitchen thrives on natural textures. Timber flooring, marble or stone benchtops, and rattan or wicker bar stools can bring warmth and add to the coastal feel.
• Use a Light Colour Palette with Coastal Hues: Stick to whites, creams, and soft greys for the main colour scheme, adding touches of navy or light blue as accents. These colours open up the space and create a calm, beachy atmosphere.
• Add Statement Lighting: Pendant lights over the island or benchtop area are a must-have in a Hamptons kitchen. Look for glass or metal fixtures to enhance the classic-meets-coastal style.

With careful attention to detail and quality finishes like those available from Ross’s Discount Home Centre, you can create a beautiful Hamptons-inspired kitchen design that feels both luxurious and inviting.

4. Coastal Kitchens

If you love the idea of capturing the relaxed, breezy feel of the coast, a coastal kitchen might be the perfect kitchen design style for your home. As someone who recently chose this look for my own kitchen renovation, I can tell you there’s something truly refreshing about walking into a space that evokes the calm and beauty of the seaside every day. This style is all about light, openness, and natural textures that make you feel connected to the outdoors—whether you live near the beach or just want to bring a coastal vibe indoors.

Coastal kitchens in Australia are defined by soft, beachy hues, natural materials, and clean, airy layouts. The colour palette usually centres around crisp whites, soft blues, sandy neutrals, and seafoam greens. Wood, rattan, and stone elements add warmth and texture, making the kitchen feel inviting and grounded. Open shelving, white cabinetry, and light-enhancing features like large windows or glass-front cabinets are common in coastal kitchens, as they bring brightness and keep the space feeling fresh.

Design Ideas for a Coastal Kitchen:

• Opt for Simple, Functional Decor: Open shelving is popular in coastal kitchens, providing an opportunity to display simple decor like ceramic dishware, plants, or seaside accents. Keep decorations minimal for a look that’s clean, uncluttered, and relaxing.
• Use Coastal Colours and Textures: Start with a base of whites or light greys for your cabinetry, then add touches of soft blue or green in your splashback tiles or accents. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a selection of coastal-style splashback tiles in colours that bring a seaside feel to your space.
• Incorporate Natural Elements: Wood-look tiles for flooring or timber accents on benchtops or stools bring warmth to the coastal kitchen style. Light-coloured wood or rattan furniture pieces also work well, contributing to the relaxed, beachy vibe.
• Choose Light and Airy Fixtures: Consider pendant lighting in natural materials like wicker or glass, which adds both style and a touch of coastal charm. These types of light fixtures also enhance the light and open feel of the kitchen.

With the right elements, you can create a coastal-inspired kitchen that feels like a tranquil seaside escape, even if you’re far from the shore. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, our gloss white cabinets, especially when upgraded with matte white handles, lend themselves beautifully to this relaxed, airy style. Combined with our coastal splashback tiles and wood-look flooring options, you’ll have everything you need to bring this fresh and breezy beach-style kitchen design style to life.

5. Country Kitchens

It never surprises me how many customers still love the warmth and charm of a classic country kitchen. Even as modern styles evolve, the country kitchen design has a timeless appeal that resonates with those seeking a cosy, inviting space filled with character. This style is perfect for creating a comfortable gathering spot at the heart of the home, especially for those who value traditional craftsmanship and natural materials.

Country kitchens are all about a welcoming, lived-in feel. Key elements include solid wood, earthy tones, and details that add a touch of rustic elegance. From beautifully carved cabinetry to stone benchtops and charming fabric accents, a country kitchen is designed to evoke a sense of comfort and homeliness. Unlike sleek, minimalist kitchens, country kitchens embrace intricate details and warm, textured finishes that add depth and personality to the space.

Design Tips for a Country Kitchen:

• Use Natural Stone or Marble-Look Benchtops: Adding a stone benchtop brings an element of durability and elegance that enhances the rustic charm. A natural-looking benchtop is key to capturing the essence of the countryside.
• Incorporate Wood and Rustic Accents: Wooden chairs, open shelving, and butcher block islands contribute to the warm, cosy feel of a country kitchen. Wood-look tiles on the floor are a fantastic alternative to real timber, providing a similar aesthetic with easier maintenance.
• Embrace Traditional, Cosy Decor: Accessories like patterned curtains, woven baskets, and farmhouse-style pendant lighting add a personal touch. These details enhance the character of the space and make it feel like home.
• Opt for Stainless Steel or White Appliances: For a cohesive and classic look, choose white or stainless steel appliances. These blend well with the country aesthetic, keeping the focus on the room’s warmth and rustic details.

For those who love the character of a traditional country kitchen, Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers stone-look benchtops and wood-look flooring options that beautifully complement this style. With the right materials and thoughtful details, you can create a timeless kitchen that feels welcoming and full of charm.

6. Traditional Kitchens

Traditional kitchens remain one of the most beloved kitchen styles, offering a warm, inviting feel that complements a range of home designs. While often mistaken for old-world kitchens with their bolder colour schemes, traditional kitchen design style ideas focus on subtle, muted colours and timeless detailing. This style is ideal for homeowners who appreciate the look of classic craftsmanship and wish to create a kitchen that feels both elegant and comfortable.

Traditional kitchens often feature classic architectural elements, such as raised-panel cabinets, crown moulding, and decorative accents like corbels or archways. The colour palette tends to be soft and understated, with creams, light greens, greys, and taupes creating a soothing, cohesive look. The result is a kitchen that feels effortlessly stylish and versatile, complementing the overall design of the home.

Design Tips for a Traditional Kitchen:

• Choose Classic Cabinetry and Details: Raised-panel cabinets, ornate hardware, and crown moulding are hallmark features of traditional kitchens. These elements add depth and texture, giving your kitchen a timeless appeal.
• Use Muted, Warm Colours: Stick to soft, neutral tones like cream, light green, grey, and taupe to create a welcoming atmosphere. Traditional kitchens avoid flashy colours, favouring more subdued shades that exude sophistication and calm.
• Incorporate Textures and Patterns: Traditional kitchens often feature textured or patterned elements like a tiled splashback or herringbone wood-look floors. These details enhance the space with character and a sense of history.
• Add Statement Lighting and Period Accents: Chandeliers or pendant lights with a vintage touch can elevate the traditional look. Period-inspired pieces, such as antique-style taps or a farmhouse sink, contribute to the timeless aesthetic.
• Opt for Stone or Marble Benchtops: Benchtops in natural stone or marble look perfect in a traditional kitchen, adding elegance and durability. Stone benchtops work well with the classic elements, enhancing the kitchen’s charm and functionality.

Traditional kitchens are ideal for those who want a timeless and refined space that feels warm and inviting. By incorporating classic cabinetry, muted colours, and thoughtful decorative touches, you can create a kitchen that’s stylish, versatile, and built to last.

7. Scandinavian Kitchens

Scandinavian kitchens have gained popularity as a go-to choice for those seeking a clean, minimalist, and highly functional space. Known for their sleek lines, light colour palettes, and natural materials, Scandinavian kitchens embody a blend of simplicity and elegance that’s both practical and visually appealing. This kitchen style idea combines form and function, making it a timeless choice for homeowners who appreciate streamlined kitchen designs with a touch of warmth.

Scandinavian kitchens typically feature an open layout with an emphasis on maximising light, creating a spacious, airy feel. This style often uses whites, soft greys, and natural wood tones, accented sparingly by black or dark-coloured fixtures to maintain a crisp and uncluttered look. The result is a kitchen that’s sophisticated yet inviting, blending upscale design with a cosy, lived-in feel.

Design Tips for a Scandinavian Kitchen:

• Stick to a Light, Minimal Colour Palette: Scandinavian kitchens are known for their neutral colour schemes. Opt for whites, soft greys, and light wood tones to keep the space bright and open. Minimalism is key, so limit the use of bold colours to small accents.
• Incorporate Natural Wood Elements: Wood is a staple in Scandinavian kitchens, adding warmth and texture to an otherwise minimal design. Use wood in benchtops, shelving, or flooring to create subtle focal points that ground the space.
• Focus on Functionality and Open Layouts: Scandinavian design prioritises function and flow, so keep the layout open and accessible. Clear workspaces and clutter-free benchtops are essential for achieving the clean, streamlined look that defines this kitchen style.
• Add Sleek, Simple Fixtures: Keep the fixtures and hardware understated. Choose minimalist handles and taps, often in matte black or brushed metal, to maintain the clean lines typical of Scandinavian design.
• Maximise Light: Natural light is an integral part of Scandinavian kitchens. If possible, use large windows or glass doors to allow light to flood in. For added brightness, incorporate reflective surfaces like gloss white cabinets, which bounce light around the room.

Scandinavian kitchens are ideal for those who appreciate a balance of style and simplicity. By blending minimalistic elements with natural textures and a light colour scheme, this kitchen design offers both elegance and functionality—an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a timeless, stylish space that’s easy to live in.

8. Industrial Kitchens

Industrial kitchens have grown in popularity among kitchen design styles in Australia, particularly for homeowners drawn to raw, urban aesthetics. Known for their bold use of textures, exposed materials, and rugged finishes, industrial kitchens capture a unique blend of form and function. Inspired by warehouse and loft-style designs, this style uses metal, concrete, and wood to create a utilitarian yet inviting space that feels grounded and effortlessly stylish.

The industrial kitchen style is marked by dark, muted colours, such as charcoal, black, and deep greys, paired with metallic surfaces and unfinished elements. Open shelving, brickwork or concrete walls, and vintage-style lighting are often used to amplify the warehouse-inspired aesthetic. The result is a kitchen that’s full of character, with a focus on durability and practical design.

Design Tips for an Industrial Kitchen:

• Incorporate Exposed Brick or Concrete Walls: The raw, unfinished look of exposed brick or concrete instantly brings an industrial feel to the kitchen. If you prefer a less permanent option, consider using concrete-look tiles from Ross’s Discount Home Centre to create a similar effect with easier maintenance and durability.
• Use a Dark, Muted Colour Palette: Stick to deep shades like charcoal, black, and dark grey to create a moody, edgy atmosphere. Accents in metal finishes, such as stainless steel or matte black, add dimension without overwhelming the space.
• Add Metallic and Matte Black Fixtures: Industrial kitchens shine with metallic accents and minimalistic tapware. A matte black or brushed nickel kitchen tap is an excellent choice to enhance the industrial vibe, adding a sleek, contemporary edge to the rugged aesthetic.
• Blend Wood and Metal Elements: Balance the industrial look with natural textures like wood. Use hybrid SPC for floors and wood benchtops, open shelving, and bar stools to soften the space and bring warmth to the darker colour palette. Metal shelving and stainless steel benchtops and finishes also add authenticity to this style.
• Choose Functional Lighting: Lighting is essential in an industrial kitchen, not just for function but for style. Pendant lights with metal shades or exposed bulbs enhance the urban aesthetic. Consider layering task lighting with ambient fixtures to ensure the space is both well-lit and visually appealing.

Industrial kitchens are ideal for those who appreciate bold, unapologetic design. Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers essential pieces for achieving this look, from textured tiles to matte black tapware and durable benchtops. With the right blend of raw materials and functional elements, an industrial kitchen can be a striking, stylish heart of any home.

9. Transitional Kitchens

Transitional kitchens have become a popular choice in kitchen design styles in Australia for those who love the charm of traditional design but want the clean lines and functionality of a modern kitchen. This style strikes a harmonious balance between old and new, blending timeless elements with contemporary touches to create a flexible, inviting space. Transitional kitchens are highly versatile and can easily be customised to reflect your taste, making them an ideal choice for family homes.

What sets transitional kitchens apart is their seamless mix of materials, textures, and finishes. You’ll often see classic cabinetry paired with modern hardware, a neutral colour palette with bold accents, and traditional design details balanced by sleek, minimalist touches. The result is a kitchen that feels warm, elegant, and highly practical, with an emphasis on creating a space that works well for cooking, dining, and gathering.

Design Tips for a Transitional Kitchen:

• Stick to a Neutral Colour Palette: Start with a foundation of whites, greys, and soft neutrals to keep the space light and open. This palette provides a backdrop that allows you to introduce accent colours or textures without overwhelming the design.
• Combine Classic and Contemporary Elements: Use traditional elements like raised-panel cabinets or shaker-style doors, but pair them with sleek, modern hardware. Ross’s brushed gold tapware is a great choice to add a contemporary edge to your classic cabinetry, blending both styles effortlessly.
• Incorporate Stone or Wood Look Benchtops: Benchtops in stone or wood-look laminate work beautifully in transitional kitchens, adding warmth and durability. Ross’s selection of Silestone benchtops provides the perfect balance of style and practicality.
• Mix and Match Textures and Finishes: To achieve a truly transitional look, use a mix of textures, such as polished subway tile splashbacks, matte-finished cabinetry, and natural wood elements. Consider subtle, textured tiles from Ross’s Discount Home Centre to add depth to your splashback without detracting from the overall design.
• Layer Lighting for Ambience: Transitional kitchens often feature layered lighting to create a warm and welcoming space. Combine pendant lighting with recessed lights or under-cabinet lighting to add functionality and set the right mood.

Transitional kitchens are the ultimate fusion of traditional warmth and modern sophistication. By combining classic cabinetry, timeless benchtops, and touches like Ross’s matte black tapware and textured tiles, you can create a kitchen that’s stylish, adaptable, and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.

10. Minimalist Kitchens

Minimalist kitchens have quickly become one of the most popular kitchen design styles, celebrated for their clean lines, clutter-free layouts, and focus on simplicity. This design style is favoured by homeowners seeking a calm, streamlined space that’s both functional and visually soothing. Minimalist kitchens embody the “less is more” philosophy, using a restrained colour palette, smart storage solutions, and a focus on essential elements to create a look that’s sleek, modern, and effortlessly elegant.

To achieve a minimalist kitchen design, think simplicity, functionality, and open space. This style often features a neutral colour palette—predominantly whites, soft greys, or muted earth tones—combined with natural materials like stone, glass, and wood. It’s also common to see influences from Scandinavian or monochromatic styles, which both align with the minimalist ethos of form and function.

Design Tips for a Minimalist Kitchen:

• Embrace a Light, Neutral Palette: Whites, light greys, and natural tones are the foundation of minimalist design, creating a sense of openness and calm. A seamless, gloss white finish on cabinets, such as those available at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, helps reflect light and maintain the airy aesthetic.
• Use Handleless Cabinets for a Streamlined Look: Opt for handleless, flat-panel cabinets to keep the kitchen looking sleek and uninterrupted. This subtle detail enhances the clean, uncluttered lines that define minimalist kitchens.
• Incorporate Natural Materials for Warmth: While minimalist kitchens are sleek, they can still feel warm and inviting with the addition of natural materials. Stone benchtops and wood accents can soften the look, bringing texture and interest without adding visual clutter.
• Prioritise Functional, Hidden Storage: Smart storage is key in minimalist kitchens. Choose built-in organisers, concealed cabinets, and pull-out pantries to keep benchtops clear and clutter-free, ensuring everything has its place.
• Add Subtle, Elegant Finishes: Choose low-profile tapware, such as matte black or brushed nickel, to maintain the minimalist vibe. Ross’s selection of minimalist-friendly tapware and textured tiles can add just the right amount of sophistication without detracting from the simplicity of the design.

Minimalist kitchens offer a beautiful blend of simplicity, function, and style. By using gloss white cabinets, streamlined kitchen tapware, and thoughtful storage solutions from Ross’s Discount Home Centre, you can create a kitchen that’s effortlessly modern, uncluttered, and perfectly suited to today’s design trends.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right kitchen style is an exciting part of any renovation, and with so many popular kitchen design styles to explore, there’s truly something for every taste and home. From the timeless elegance of a Hamptons kitchen to the sleek simplicity of a minimalist design, each style offers unique features and character. If you’re still looking for ideas, be sure to check out our Kitchen Design Trends article for more inspiration on the latest trends.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we’re here to help you bring your dream kitchen to life. Whether you’re after the perfect benchtop, stylish tapware, or quality cabinets, you’ll find a wide selection of kitchen essentials at competitive prices in our Guildford showroom or online. Let us help you create a kitchen that’s not only beautiful but also functional and built to last. Visit us today to get started!