At Metricon, we’re all about designing homes that reflect the way Australians want to live - now and into the future. That means keeping our finger firmly on the pulse of modern home design trends, and evolving our offering to stay ahead of the game.
So when the 2025 James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast was revealed, we wanted to be there to hear it firsthand.
Our National Product Development Manager, David McKibbin, attended the event to uncover what’s trending, what’s changing, and what today’s aspirational home builder really wants.
“What’s exciting is that James Hardie’s research aligns closely with what we’re already doing at Metricon,” says David.
“It’s a great sign that our product direction is on point - and that we’re building what people are asking for.” David McKibbin
4 Key Design Trends to Watch in 2025
The Forecast, developed in collaboration with research group Fiftyfive5, identified eight standout styles shaping Australian homes this year. We’ve taken a closer look at four of them below:
Modern Farmhouse
A timeless blend of classic architecture and contemporary finishes. Think gabled roofs, open-plan layouts and a calming palette of neutral tones and textures.
Modern Coastal
Crisp white weatherboards, breezy indoor-outdoor flow, and a relaxed elegance inspired by Australia’s coastal landscape.
Box Modern
Bold and architectural, this look is defined by clean lines, geometric shapes and a minimalist approach - ideal for urban blocks and statement façades.
Mid-Century Modern
Reimagined for today’s lifestyle, this design style combines retro flair with contemporary simplicity, perfect for families seeking a balance of style and practicality.
Beyond Looks: Smarter, More Flexible Homes
But the Forecast went deeper than style. According to David, the common themes centered around resilience, flexibility and affordability - some of the biggest challenges in today’s housing market.
“With rising material costs, skilled labour shortages, and growing affordability pressures, it’s more important than ever to design homes that deliver more value for customers,” he says.
That’s why affordable home building remains central to Metricon’s mission - offering solutions for every budget without compromising on quality or innovation.
“We’re designing homes that adapt - for now and for what’s next,” says David. “Whether it’s to suit smaller blocks, blended families or working from home, our homes need to flex with life.”
We’re also exploring innovative construction methods like prefabrication to improve efficiency. The goal? Reduce costs, shorten build times, and ultimately make home ownership more achievable for more Australians.
Design That Delivers
One theme that echoed throughout the James Hardie Forecast was purposeful design - something that’s always been part of Metricon’s DNA.
From multiple living zones to clever indoor-outdoor flow, we’re helping customers live larger, no matter their block size, budget, or lifestyle.
“Our product and design teams are constantly pushing forward,” David says. “We’re in close contact with our suppliers and always looking for ways to bring the latest ideas and materials to our homes - guided by emerging research into sustainable practices, innovative materials, and evolving lifestyle needs.”
So, whether you’re dreaming of a modern coastal retreat, a bold contemporary statement, or a home that adapts with you - you can count on Metricon to deliver it.
Want to learn more? Explore the full James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast and discover how your new home can bring these trends to life.
