Australia’s seven most popular and lasting house styles have been identified in a study conducted by leading cladding company, James Hardie.

Titled the ‘Modern Homes Forecast 2024‘, the first annual research report involved the help of industry experts, cutting-edge AI technology and thousands of leading designers and influencers. The study not only reveals the country’s favoured architectural styles but also the cultural forces changing the way we live.

Drivers of change

Below are some of the factors revealed as influencing the direction of Australian house styles:

• Renewed support for local manufacturing
• Climate change creating a need for more resilient buildings
• Increased multigenerational living due to rising costs of living
• Increased regional migration due to dissatisfaction with city living
• More people working from home, despite the push to return to offices

7 Most Popular and Emerging House Styles In Australia

Let’s take a look at the seven house styles dominating the landscape now and into the future:

Modern Farmhouse

A seamless blend of contemporary and traditional elements, Modern Farmhouses feature neutral colour schemes and practical open-plan living. Unmissable black windows define this popular emerging style and contrast beautifully with the rustic features of the genre.

Box Modern

As its name suggests, the Box Modern style uses stacked blocks in contrasting materials and shades to create a visually compelling structure.

Modern Heritage

Old meets new when it comes to Modern Heritage, which uses a balance of heritage features with contemporary design. Consider it timelessly elegant and massively functional.

Mid-Century Modern

Featuring geometric lines, organic shapes and bright colours, Mid-Century Modern is playful and nostalgic.

Japandi

Comprising Scandinavian and Japanese influences, Japanadi is minimalistic and warm. The style favours neutral colour palettes and a connection with nature.

Barn

The Barn style embraces clean lines, natural materials and rustic charm. Open-plan living, exposed wood and high ceilings create a sense of serenity and connect the interior with external zones.

Modern Coastal

Both casual and luxurious, Modern Coastal is Australia’s new beach shack! Features include white weatherboards, wide stacking doors and clerestory windows.

Whether it’s for a new build or a renovation, the James Hardie Modern Homes Forecast 2024 is an invaluable tool in creating a true lifestyle home.

Digital Design Handbooks are available for each of the seven house styles, and these are brimming with resources to guide you through your project from start to finish. Enjoy style overviews, design features, colour palettes, cladding solutions – and more!

“I am thrilled to be part of the Modern Homes Forecast 2024 as it represents a forward-thinking exploration of contemporary living. James Hardie’s dedication to understanding and shaping the future of how Australia builds, aligns perfectly with my passion for innovative design. Together, we are poised to inspire homeowners and industry professionals alike, fostering a new era of creative possibilities in modern living.”

Neale Whitaker, Interior Design Expert

For more information, visit James Hardie today.

James Hardie is a partner of the Making HOME renovation series.

Top image source: James Hardie.

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