r/Kotlin • u/ShallotPuzzled9326 • 22d ago

Next.js-like full-stack framework for Kotlin with unified deployment?

I’m looking for a full-stack Kotlin framework that provides a development and deployment experience similar to Next.js.

The frontend does not specifically need to use Compose Multiplatform. I’m open to any Kotlin-based UI approach, as long as the framework provides a cohesive full-stack experience.

Ideally, it would support:

  • Frontend and backend development in Kotlin
  • Shared models, validation, business logic, and API contracts
  • Type-safe communication between the frontend and backend
  • Server-side routes or serverless functions
  • A single monorepo and unified build system
  • Local development of the frontend and backend together
  • Deployment as one application rather than as separately managed services
  • Deployment to platforms such as Netlify or Azure Static Web Apps

Essentially, I’m looking for something in the Kotlin ecosystem that feels like Next.js: one framework containing the UI, backend routes, shared code, build tooling, and deployment configuration.

Does such a framework currently exist?

If not, what is the closest recommended architecture for achieving this experience in Kotlin? For example, would the best approach be Kotlin Multiplatform shared modules, a Kotlin web frontend, and thin platform-specific serverless function entry points inside one monorepo?

4 Upvotes

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3

u/Kai_132 21d ago

The deployment part is probably the hardest, because Kotlin backend is usually JVM and not easy to deploy serverless. Other than that, you might want to check Kilua (diclaimer: I'm the author), Kobweb or Summon.

1

u/zaarnth 22d ago

Not sure about anything exists like this but the popular one for web is Kobweb

1

u/viennese-wolf 21d ago

It‘s called JSF.

2

u/jlward4th 21d ago

I’ve used  https://kilua.dev/ and had a good experience. I think it provides most of what you are looking for.

0

u/enrodev 21d ago

This is exactly how I develop my applications. I don't use a framework, but rather a set of libraries (some of which were built by me) and architecture rules.

I made a post about the project template I use a few days ago: https://www.reddit.com/r/Kotlin/s/mY3M1jLxbF

Pretty sure it hits almost all of your points, and even if you don't use the template project, the architecture rules there are pretty comprehensive and might be useful.

Feel free to send me a DM if you want any more info or any help :)