Down to earth
Kiwi kitchen and bathroom designers are predicting warm colours and organic finishes, reports Rachael Kwok of NKBA.
Just like fashion, kitchen and bathroom trend predictions are popular for the new year. As one of the leading membership organisations for kitchen and bathroom designers, at NKBA we take the opportunity to survey our members to discover what is in and what is out for design in the year ahead.
This year we have seen a shake-up in the colours and styles in favour, with creams, greens and timber coming out on top. You will also hear the word ‘earthy’ a lot in 2026, as designers continue to draw inspiration from our natural world.
In bathroom design, we can expect to see a continued investment in beautiful bathroom spaces. This is reflected in our survey, where most designers report that homeowners want relaxing spaces that mimic the high-end feel of luxury hotels.
LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT THE SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS:
• NKBA designers predict that 2026 will be the year of timber cabinetry, featuring walnut and oak alongside the warmer tones of cream and sand, with 58 per cent of designers anticipating that walnut will be the most in fashion.
• Although creams are still fashionable, some NKBA designers have noticed forest greens gaining attention lately.
• For the finish of cabinetry colours, New Zealand can expect to see matt continue its dominance with 51 per cent of designers preferring matt as their finish of choice, followed by textured.
• In benchtop trends, NKBA designers say deep, earthy tones, alongside warm and natural shades, will take over.
• For benchtop materials, 79 per cent of respondents said porcelain is preferred. There is a larger range of porcelain options coming into the New Zealand market, and this means porcelain will be offered at a more cost-effective rate in a range of colours and patterns. Not only that, but porcelain is also durable and stain- and scratch-resistant.
• According to 72 per cent of survey respondents, the trend of extending the benchtop material up the wall for splashbacks is expected to continue. We think that trend is here to stay!
• In the kitchen space we’re sure to see innovative smart technology, integrated appliances and plenty of storage in 2026.
• And the cost? NKBA designers say the average kitchen is currently costing $30,000 to $50,000, excluding appliances and trades. In terms of time, it can take three to four months from design to install.
• Must-haves for the bathroom include creative lighting, organic materials and floating vanities.
• According to many NKBA designers, most clients want their bathrooms to feel luxurious, and a floating vanity helps achieve this look.
• In terms of cost, some designers said bathrooms could cost under $10,000, while the average bathroom was between $50,000 and $60,000.
• In terms of timing, the average bathroom is taking two to three months from design to install.
While we love a trend, most NKBA designers are dedicated to creating custom, one-off spaces that capture the desires and style of their clients and the architecture of the home. Speak to a designer of NKBA to design your kitchen or bathroom.
