What's Next in Interiors? Insights from the HIA National Conference

At this year’s HIA National Conference, our very own Interior Design Manager, Natasha Allan was invited to join a thought-provoking discussion hosted by Jen Bishop, founder of Interiors Addict - Australia’s largest interior design and renovation blog, Natasha shared her thoughts on the trends shaping our homes now and into the future.

From evolving material palettes to a renewed focus on craftsmanship and personalisation, here’s what’s next in interiors through Natasha’s expert lens.

1. A Warmer Take on Colour

Gone are the days of stark, clinical whites. According to Natasha, we’re seeing a steady shift towards warmer, moodier tones, think smoky whites and soft neutrals that bring a sense of comfort and calm to a space. These shades work beautifully as a base, softening finishes and allowing natural textures to shine.

For those still craving colour, there are plenty of opportunities to introduce bolder hues through feature walls, styling and artwork offering personality without overwhelming the overall palette.

2. Kitchens Evolving with Purpose

Kitchens are becoming more sculptural and textural, spaces that feel crafted rather than purely functional. Natasha’s seeing a rise in natural materials like timber cabinetry and bold stone, often paired with simple, handle less profiles that let the craftsmanship speak for itself.

Key design details emerging include:

• Sculptural feature islands

• Stone “shelfies” above splashbacks—adding both function and design focus

• Rangehoods as hero elements—clad in stone or tiles to create impact

• Mixed metals in tapware for added depth and interest

With the shift away from breakfast bars and uniform surfaces, we’re seeing layered materials and subtle colour variations introduced to create visual warmth and individuality. As Natasha explains, “Factoring in your space, size and budget is always key but with the right design guidance, you can create a space that looks incredible and works for how you live.”

3. Stone That Makes a Statement

The changes brought about by the engineered stone ban have ushered in a new wave of material innovation. Porcelain has emerged as a standout alternative, offering the aesthetic of natural stone with added durability, especially for busy families and keen entertainers.

Jen and Natasha agreed that homeowners are becoming more confident with bold stone selections, opting for “punchier” surfaces that make a visual statement. And with thoughtful placement, even a smaller application like a feature splashback capped with a stone shelf can add serious impact without stretching the budget.

4. Bathrooms with Personality

Bathroom and powder room design is embracing more personality and atmosphere, moving away from purely functional spaces to more hotel-inspired sanctuaries. Think:

• Feature lighting and sculptural vanities

• Statement wallpaper and tactile wall tiles

• Bold metallic tapware in bronze and brushed nickel

• A return to separate hot and cold taps for a more considered and tactile aesthetic

Interestingly, Natasha notes a shift in spatial planning some are choosing fewer ensuites to allow for larger master suites or better flow throughout the home.

5. Doors and Walls as Design Features

In line with the broader trend towards craftsmanship, we’re seeing more emphasis on textured surfaces and tactile materials. Products like Surround by Laminex are gaining traction for their visual depth and organic feel, while internal feature doors and front entries are becoming more refined often clad to blend seamlessly with the facade, allowing the hardware to become the hero.

We were honoured to have our very own Natasha Allan selected to contribute to such an engaging and insightful discussion, an opportunity that further cements Thomas Archer as a leader and credible authority in our field. Natasha’s insights at the HIA National Conference only reinforce what we strive to achieve every day: purposeful, personal spaces that reflect the way our clients truly live. To learn more about our interior design process, click here .