Will the new ‘Modern Classical’ style redefine Aussie suburbs?

Neale Whitaker last week unveiled eight design styles set to shape the future of Australian home design and architecture, as part of the annual launch of the James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast.

Now in its second year, the report draws on James Hardie’s research, which blends global and local lifestyle trends with AI-driven home design analytics and insights from leading architects and designers.

The Forecast is complemented by the release of eight new Design Handbooks slated to launch later this month, informed by leading designers, builders and architects, to guide Australians in bringing these styles to life.

As the cost of living continues to rise, James Hardie has partnered with experts to offer practical solutions and advice, helping home enthusiasts construct their dream builds on a budget while ensuring long-lasting results.

Neale said: “The insights in the James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast indicate Australians are moving towards homes that play a role in restoring wellbeing, offer spaces for creativity and self-expression, and are built for resilience and longevity in the climate crisis. In 2025, we see a revolutionary step towards the future of home design, as we make a shift towards flexible homes that serve more purposes and suit a range of budgets.”

2025 home design styles

The eight home styles revealed in the report are designed to suit modern lives:

Box Modern: Plays with the infinite possibilities of modular design, using bold and sharp geometric shapes to create a striking yet simple facade.

Modern Farmhouse: Blends rustic style with modern convenience, with pitched roofs and large windows that create a sense of openness and connection to the landscape.

Modern Heritage: A renovation style that merges old with new, providing a unique glimpse into the past combined with contemporary contrasts through colour, shapes and materials.

Japandi: A hybrid architectural style combining Scandinavian functionality and Japanese rustic minimalism to deliver comfort and a connection to nature.

Barn: Combining dramatically high ceilings, open floor plans and connection to nature, the Barn continues to excite, offering rural charm in urban surroundings.

Modern Coastal: Provides a fresh twist on classic coastal style with a sleek aesthetic and indoor-outdoor living, built to withstand the Australian climate.

Mid-Century Modern: Remains timeless and relevant thanks to its practicality, simplicity and sense of optimism. The style harmonises modern simplicity with the nostalgia of Mid-Century Modern architecture.

Modern Classical: Putting a modern twist on the elegance of a neoclassical exterior, Modern Classical balances both traditional and whimsical.

Drivers of change in home design and building

The James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast 2025 also unveils expert analysis on environmental and societal factors that are reshaping the future of architecture and home design in Australia – including wellbeing and resilience.

With one-third of Australians saying they feel lonely often or most of the time* the research shows more people are prioritising wellness at home – starting from the outside in. Australians are shifting to focus on advanced filtration systems, connection to outdoor space and improving thermal performance into their modern homes.

Environmental considerations are also shaping how Australians build as climate change brings more rain, heat, higher energy usage, contributing to rising bills. The research shows that resilient homes are becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. With increasing pressure from insurance companies, evolving building codes and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, homes need to do more than just shelter us.

Neil Hipwell, founder of design and build company Futureflip, said: “In 2025, homes need to deliver more for less. We’re working with Australians to build smaller homes with smarter designs to save on costs and maximise space. There are many things people can do to prepare for the future, from using fire and moisture-resistant materials to recycling products where possible. This is the year to get innovative with your build and bring your dream home to life.”

James Hardie is soon to launch Stria Cladding Fine Texture, an extension of the existing popular Stria Cladding range. Stria Cladding Fine Texture provides a blend of durability and contemporary aesthetics with distinctive clean lines and options for vertical and horizontal application. Stria Cladding Fine Texture creates a sophisticated, modern look that is engineered to stand up to harsh Australian conditions, making it a good choice for those looking to build or renovate.

Read the full James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast 2025 report