Hosting is one of the most exciting parts of being a homeowner. Whether you're heading up a cookbook club dinner party, an at-home cafe-inspired brunch, or shaking things up with cocktail night—it all starts in the kitchen, so getting your design right is crucial.
To guide you through designing your own dream kitchen, we teamed up with kaboodle–the legends balancing trends with timeless design (like with their new Down To Earth range)—to unpack what makes the ultimate kitchen in 2025, and how to make it your own.
What Your Kitchen Needs (And How You Use It)
Think about the role your kitchen plays in your day-to-day—are you dreaming of a quiet morning coffee at the kitchen bench? You might want to plan for a coffee station with benchtop overhang for stools. Are you on the cusp of the latest food trends? Extra cupboard space to store your Ninja CREAMi or air fryer is a must. And just how often do you entertain? If you have the space, include an island bench. It makes a great spot for breakfast, entertaining (think canapés and cocktails) or a casual date night at home—with the cheese board and fridge within arm's reach.
Budget tip: Understand your non-negotiables (whether that be an island bench, plenty of storage or a coffee and tea setup), but be realistic and flexible with your needs in the early stages of kitchen renovation planning.
Budgeting For A Kitchen Refresh
With a host of services (electric, gas, water), appliances and labour, the cost of a kitchen reno can add up quickly, so it's important to get clear on your budget—whatever it may be.
Be realistic about your budget and research your options. Keep in mind though that spending more upfront can pay off in longevity and resale value. You can also find designer-look joinery and finishes that still give a luxe, on-trend feel without having to drop your life savings. Also remember that while it might be cheapest to install a kitchen yourself, you can still get help without breaking the bank, and save yourself a serious headache in the process.
A stand-out feature (like a jaw-dropping pendant, freestanding cooker or standout colour scheme) can also create the wow factor you’re looking for without every item needing an eye-watering price tag.
Budget tip: Plan your stand-out feature moment from the outset to avoid bill shock at the end.
How To Plan A Kitchen Layout
Successful spaces of all sizes follow one basic rule of kitchen design: the working triangle (we promise it’s not a pyramid scheme). The idea is that the working zones of the room—sink, fridge and cooktop—should form three points of a triangle to minimise movement and promote natural flow. It’s fairly flexible and means you won’t be tripping over others while you cook up a storm.
Layout is shaped by both space and budget. The bigger the kitchen, the more materials you’ll need. Plus, moving services like water and gas will add extra trade costs, so if money’s tight, set a plan and stick to it. Use kaboodle's handy design tools page to help you find your style preferences and get a price range estimate before you either get designing yourself or book a consultation through Bunnings.
Budget tip: Accurate measurements are key to a smooth and successful kitchen renovation. Taking the time to measure your space properly from the start helps ensure everything fits perfectly, saving you time, money and stress down the line.
Kitchen Style: What’s Trending In 2025
With your budget set, layout planned and essential services covered, it’s time for the fun part—pinning down the look of your brand new kitchen.
Earthy tones that traverse the colour spectrum are having a big moment. Think soft greens, warm neautrals, and muted greys and blues.
Two-toned kitchens are also trending—picture earthy timber paired with a bolder hue up above, or a stone-look benchtop to balance brighter tiling.
For splashbacks, handmade Zellige tiles (and their lookalike ceramic counterparts) and textured finishes like plaster are another high-impact way to nail that natural, earthy vibe (just remember to seal them). For appliances, traditional white is long gone. Sleek black appliances are still dominating, but paired with a pop of colour in small appliances.
Budget tip: Make a moodboard to pin down your style before you begin. Add similar material swatches from different price points—you might be surprised by which option you prefer once you see them side by side, and that could mean saving yourself some serious coin.
A great kitchen is about far more than just the way it looks—it's the heart of your home. Whether you install it yourself or get some help along the way, head to kaboodle to make a kitchen that gives you a feeling you'll love.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by kaboodle and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Images: Supplied.