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Australian home design trends explained with James Hardie

By Bunnings magazine /

Modern house with curved facade, arched windows, lush garden and lawn.

James Hardie runs global trends through a local lens to present inspirational looks.


Whether building or renovating, you want a house that will carry you calmly into the future. With its finger on the pulse of both international home design trends and the priorities of Antipodean living, James Hardie delivers inspiration for your next – and forever – place, with its Modern Homes Forecast.

Check out this guide on how to use James Hardie cladding in a renovation.

What is James Hardie’s Modern Homes Forecast 2026?

A trend report grounded in the practical needs and desires of Australian homeowners, James Hardie’s Modern Homes Forecast 2026 presents global design movements translated for Australian homes. These reflect how we live and the building and renovation ideas that resonate in our unique part of the world.

The results are expressed in eight modern home looks. From playful to grounded, creative to serene, each distinctly different look represents a blueprint for timeless living in a fast-changing world. Now you only need to decide which one best suits your life and your style.

Modern garage with pitched roof, slatted screen and landscaping, set amongst greenery.

Find your style in these popular home design trends

  • Modern Classical. Mediterranean-inspired elegance with a dash of whimsy.
  • Barn. Born from Nordic minimalism, combining traditional lines with modern simplicity.
  • Modern Coastal. Contemporary twist on the classic beach-house style.
  • Japandi. Ingenious marriage of Scandinavian functionality and Japanese minimalism.
  • Modern Farmhouse. Rustic character reimagined with inclusive layouts and intuitive modern conveniences.
  • Modern Heritage. Rich tones and tactile charm layered with high-performance modernism.
  • Box Modern. Precise geometric lines provide a crisp canvas for creative expression.
  • Mid-Century Modern. Retro-style design with future-focused sustainability.

 

Ready to give your home modern style?

Check out the full range of James Hardie products at Bunnings.

 

Photo credit: James Hardie 

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.