Melburnians are renowned for being style-savvy, and this is especially evident in the design and décor they choose for their homes.
"Everyone seeks good design in all things they use and purchase, and a home is, of course, no exception—it's probably where it matters the most," says Robert Nguyen, Lead Designer at Boutique Homes, a leading Melbourne-based homebuilder known for its modern and innovative designs.
Melbourne buyers are known for their discerning taste and appreciation for cutting-edge design.
Whether looking to step back in time or connect with nature, Nguyen observes that Melbourne home buyers are embracing some exciting design trends this year.
Here are six to watch and be inspired by:
1. Multifunctional spaces
Traditionally, Australian homes tended towards designated rooms for each activity.
However, as city homes shrink and housing costs rise, maximising living space is key.
Modern homeowners embrace spaces where the family can be together.
Nguyen notes the growing trend toward multifunctional spaces that maintain comfort and practicality in tight spaces.
Designing flexibility into homes allows them to adapt seamlessly to changing family needs, avoiding the costly hassle of relocating.
According to Nguyen, small changes like installing sliding doors can transform living areas.
“Create an open area for gatherings or a kids' play zone, then close it off for a quiet nook,” he suggests.
2. Indoor-outdoor living
Seamless indoor-outdoor living is cherished by Melbourne buyers, with homes making the most of the Aussie climate attracting higher prices.
Modern designs enhance this connection through features like living areas around open courtyards and double-height spaces with large windows.
Indoor-outdoor designs mean we can enjoy the Aussie climate.
Nguyen highlights that this design enhances both lifestyle and aesthetic value.
These features help blend the outdoors with the main living area, making everything feel more spacious.
“Courtyard floorplans like our Portofino range really enhance this by placing all the living areas around the open courtyard to foster strong indoor-outdoor connections and lines of sight,” says Robert Nguyen.
Another way to feel connected to the outdoors is to have a double-height void with large windows.
“Our Pasadena double-storey range of homes have quickly become our most popular, as people fall in love with the large, light-filled open space above the main living area,” Nguyen adds.
3. Bolder colours
While neutrals remain staples, Kat Moore, lead designer at Boutique Homes, sees Melbourne buyers embracing bolder hues in 2025 and beyond.
Homeowners are no longer sticking to an all-white palette, with bolder colours coming through.
Greens and blues lead the charge, with vibrant reds and rich browns gaining popularity.
Cherry, in particular, stands out. According to Pinterest's "Cherry Coded" forecast, it's set to make waves in home décor and beyond, indicative of a broader lifestyle trend.
4. Vintage and retro influences
While design often looks to the future, Moore notes a strong interest in past influences, particularly mid-century modern styles that mix materials with functionality.
Vintage and retro themes are coming to the fore again as homeowners embrace comfort and glamour.
“Brown is prominent in this trend, named Mocha Colour of the Year 2025 by Pantone,” she mentions.
Moore suggests subtle ways to incorporate this trend, including using vintage materials and upcycling decor with personal significance.
5. Minimalism
Minimalist buyers seek simple, organised spaces for their clean aesthetic.
In Melbourne, this trend embraces serene, functional living areas with stylish simplicity and urban sophistication.
Moore cites features like closed-door storage and monochromatic schemes that create focal points while fostering calm.
6. Artisanal and handcrafted elements
Counter to minimalism, many stylish Melbourne homes are embracing unique, handcrafted items and bespoke furniture to infuse personal flair and self-expression into their surroundings.
Moore highlights elements such as "feature-wall tiles with undulating edges, surfaces with a chalky texture, and slight colour inconsistencies that give a handmade feel" as emerging styles.
Homes with character and texture are being embraced by buyers.
"Timber, being a natural material, is an easy addition to flooring and cabinetry. Upgrading to wool carpets offers a nostalgic feel with a hint of luxury," Moore adds.
The artisanal trend can also be reflected in decor like clay and ceramic vases and lights, enhanced by woven rugs and one-of-a-kind personal decorative touches.
“Play with scale. There are no rules here—it’s like everything has a story. Have fun!” she encourages.
English (US) · 