For Australians, the kitchen is a stage for life itself – a space where stories are shared, meals become moments to savour, and friends linger over coffee, long after the cups have emptied.
At Metricon, a great deal of creative energy goes into perfecting kitchen designs, ensuring they are as visually captivating as they are practical. To explore the trends set to define 2026, we spoke with Tracey Noonan, Metricon’s Senior Interior Designer.
“The kitchen sets the tone for the rest of your home,” Tracey explains. “Understanding what matters most for your family, how the space will be used, and what it needs to function seamlessly is essential.”
Whether it’s a bustling household gathered around an expansive island, or a dedicated culinary enthusiast needing a prep kitchen with generous pantry space, your kitchen should reflect your lifestyle - and support it effortlessly.
Cabinetry: Form Meets Function
One of the most prominent trends for 2026 is cabinetry that marries practicality with style. Thoughtful design ensures that every element is accessible, convenient, and visually compelling.
“Push-to-open doors and drawers make essentials instantly reachable,” Tracey notes. “Pull-out bins streamline waste management, and spice drawers keep ingredients on hand for the avid cook.”
Convenience extends beyond storage too. Integrated features such as pop-up power pods in island benches allow appliances to plug in, or devices to charge, without cluttering the workspace. “It’s about time-saving solutions that feel effortless and cleverly integrated,” she adds.
Cabinetry is also emerging as a design feature in its own right. “Fluted profiles, Shaker-style panels, and bold colour choices are transforming storage into aesthetic statements,” Tracey says.
Lighting: Layered and Intentional
Kitchen lighting is evolving from a purely functional necessity to a layered, atmospheric element.
“Creating warmth and intimacy through carefully considered lighting is a major trend for 2026,” Tracey explains.
Pendant lights over benches serve as sculptural highlights while providing practical task illumination. Strip lighting beneath cupboards, along open shelving, or softly backlighting countertops adds dimension and depth.
A curated mix of lighting allows the space to shift seamlessly throughout the day - bright and focused for cooking, then soft and ambient as the kitchen flows into evening entertaining.
Benchtops: Timeless, Reimagined
Stone remains a cornerstone of kitchen design, yet the trend is evolving. In 2026, rich veining, earthy tones, and subtle tonal variation bring a sense of depth and refinement, while shades from soft beige to terracotta imbue spaces with a grounded, natural character.
“When selecting a benchtop, durability is just the starting point,” Tracey explains. “Paired with timber accents, these surfaces feel inviting and grounded, bringing the beauty of nature subtly into the home.”
Curves: Softening the Space
Curved forms are quietly redefining kitchen architecture. Gone are the days of rigid, linear layouts - in their place, gentle arcs and flowing silhouettes invite movement, encourage interaction, and soften the room’s energy.
“Curves have a subtle but profound effect,” Tracey explains. “A rounded island bench or softly fluted cabinetry transforms the space, creating harmony and a sense of flow.”
Curves enhance the natural beauty of stone and timber finishes too, bringing rhythm to the home’s central space.
Tiling: Practical Beauty
Tiles have stepped out of the shadows of mere functionality to become a defining design element. Splashbacks are now a canvas for colour, texture, and pattern - offering opportunities to introduce drama or subtle refinement.
“Tiles are no longer just practical,” Tracey notes. “They can be a statement, a backdrop, or a link between cabinetry, benchtops, and lighting. The right choice of colour and texture can completely transform a kitchen, adding depth and personality.”
From handcrafted finishes to unexpected shapes, tiles catch the light and elevate the everyday into something extraordinary.
In 2026, kitchens will be spaces where practicality, beauty, and lifestyle intersect. “Our aim is to design kitchens that serve life as much as they serve style,” Tracey reflects. “They should feel welcoming, inspiring, and entirely lived in.”
If you're needing some more inspo to get those creative cogs turning, head on over to our Gallery and explore the hundreds of beautiful images we have on show.
