Planning an apartment kitchen remodel (apt kitchen) in WA? Joyce Kitchens designs and installs space-savvy, code-compliant kitchens for Perth apartments—integrating cooking, storage and style into a compact footprint. Below, you’ll find layouts that work, the renovation process, compliant materials, real-world costs in Perth, and a practical checklist to get started.
Why remodel your apartment kitchen?
The kitchen is the engine room of open‑plan living. A thoughtful remodel can boost everyday functionality, add rental and resale value, and lift the whole apartment’s look. In strata settings, remodelling also improves safety by updating electrics (AS/NZS 3000), ventilation and waterproofing standards.
- Improve workflow with a space-efficient galley or L‑shaped kitchen.
- Add storage via custom cabinetry WA homeowners trust—tall larders, pull‑out pantries, soft‑close drawers.
- Upgrade to energy‑efficient appliances sized for Australian apartments (450–600 mm dishwashers, 600/900 mm cooktops and ovens, 600–900 mm rangehoods).
- Refresh style with a shaker kitchen, modern flat panel or coastal palette that suits Perth light.
Note: Apartment renovations in WA may require strata approval and adherence to bylaws and the National Construction Code (NCC). See HIA guidance and Master Builders WA for best practice.
Core small-space design insights
- Right-sized appliances: Prefer 600 mm ovens and 600–750 mm induction cooktops unless the space supports 900 mm. Consider a 450 mm integrated dishwasher.
- Vertical storage: Full-height cabinetry to 2400–2700 mm with bulkhead to reduce dust traps.
- Smart corners: Use Le Mans or carousel units instead of dead corners.
- Bench depth: Standard 600 mm works; 650 mm gives more prep space and helps conceal services.
- Lighting layers: LED strip lighting to undershelves, task lighting over cooktop, warm ambient pendants for dining zones.
- Ventilation: Recirculating rangehoods with quality charcoal filters if ducting to façade/roof isn’t possible under strata rules.
- Surfaces that last: High-pressure laminate, porcelain or sintered stone tops; durable splashbacks (tiled or glass).
- Noise and vibration: Soft-close hardware, rubber underlay for appliances to respect neighbours.
Our WA-focused apartment kitchen renovation process
- In‑home consult & measure: We assess services, strata constraints and access/parking for deliveries.
- Design workshop: 3D concepts of galley/U‑shaped/L‑shaped options, appliance integration, splashback lines and storage (butler’s pantry substitutes like tall pull‑outs).
- Selections: Benchtops, cabinet finishes (laminate, 2‑pack polyurethane, thermofoil), handles, sinks and mixers, tiled/glass splashback.
- Approvals: We provide drawings/specs to support strata submissions. Work to relevant AS/NZS standards (e.g., AS/NZS 4386 cabinetry, AS/NZS 3000 electrical, AS 5601 gas).
- Fixed proposal & HIA contract: Transparent scope, timeline and inclusions suitable for apartment works.
- Local manufacture: Custom cabinetry made in WA for precise fit and reliable lead times.
- Installation & trades coordination: Licensed electricians and plumbers, dust control, lift protection, and neighbour‑friendly scheduling.
- Handover & warranties: Care kit, maintenance guidance and product warranties.
We coordinate with building managers to comply with noise windows, waste removal and lift bookings—critical for smooth apartment projects.
Materials and finishes that work in Australian apartments
Benchtops
Choose surfaces with good heat resistance and easy maintenance. In WA, supplying or installing engineered stone that contains crystalline silica is banned. Consider porcelain or sintered stone alternatives, or high‑pressure laminate for value. For existing engineered stone benchtops, handling must follow strict safety rules—see WA Government guidance via the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).
Definition — Porcelain/sintered stone: Kiln‑fired or sintered mineral surfaces with high heat/UV resistance and low porosity.
Cabinetry
- Laminated board: Durable, budget‑friendly; many woodgrains and matte textures.
- 2‑pack polyurethane: Painted finish for premium flat or shaker profiles; repairable and colour‑matched.
- Thermofoil (vinyl wrap): Cost‑effective profiles; avoid direct heat sources—use heat shields near ovens.
- Hardware: Full-extension, soft‑close drawers; integrated waste bins; pull‑out spice and pantry units.
Splashbacks
- Tiled: Subway, kit‑kat, porcelain sheets; consider epoxy grout for easier cleaning.
- Glass: Seamless look, reflective brightness for small spaces.
- Porcelain slab: Minimal grout lines, premium finish.
Appliances
- Induction cooktop: Fast, efficient; confirm electrical capacity (often 32 A) within apartment limits.
- Rangehood: 600–900 mm; duct externally if permitted, otherwise high-grade recirc filters.
- Integrated dishwasher: 450 or 600 mm to match cavity; reduces visual clutter.
- Undermount sink and mixer: Maximises bench area; include water hammer arrestors where needed.
Flooring
Hybrid or vinyl plank offers underfoot comfort and acoustic performance in apartments. Check strata acoustic ratings for underlay selection.
Lighting and power
Layer task and ambient lighting with dimmers. Plan GPOs for benchtop appliances; ensure compliance with AS/NZS 3000 and RCD requirements.
Comparison: Engineered Stone vs Laminate (WA context)
| Feature | Engineered Stone (quartz) | High-Pressure Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal status in WA | Supply/installation of silica-containing engineered stone is banned. Existing tops may remain; special handling rules apply. | Fully permitted. |
| Heat resistance | Good, but avoid hot pots directly. | Moderate; always use trivets. |
| Scratch/stain | High resistance; non-porous. | Good scratch resistance; non‑porous surface layer. |
| Typical installed cost (Perth) | Not applicable for new installs under current WA rules. | Approx. $250–$450/m² benchtop surface (edge profile and substrate can vary total). |
| Look/feel | Stone‑like; now consider porcelain/sintered stone alternatives instead. | Wide designs incl. stone‑look, woodgrains, concrete textures. |
| Maintenance | Low; avoid harsh abrasives. | Low; non‑abrasive cleaners. |
Layouts and styles for apartment kitchens
Best‑fit apartment layouts
- Galley kitchen: Parallel benches maximise prep length in narrow footprints; add a shallow breakfast ledge for social cooking.
- L‑shaped kitchen: Efficient triangle between sink, cooktop and fridge; suits open‑plan living zones.
- U‑shaped kitchen: Storage powerhouse for larger apartments; mind clearances (≥1000 mm walkway).
- Single‑wall with island: Ideal for studio/1‑bed units; island adds storage and seating if circulation allows.
Styles Australians love
- Shaker kitchen (Hamptons/coastal): White or soft greys, brushed nickel handles, tiled splashback.
- Modern minimalist: Flat panel 2‑pack, finger‑pull rails, porcelain splashback, integrated appliances.
- Warm contemporary: Woodgrain laminates, matte black mixers, stone‑look porcelain tops, LED strip lighting.
Apartment kitchen remodel costs in Perth
Final price depends on size, finishes and services. Typical ranges (cabinetry, benchtops, splashback, standard appliances install, trades, GST):
- Refresh/Budget: $15,000–$25,000 (laminate doors/benchtop, tiled splashback, retain services)
- Mid‑range: $25,000–$40,000 (mix of laminate + 2‑pack doors, porcelain or premium laminate benchtop, pull‑out storage)
- Premium: $40,000–$70,000+ (full custom cabinetry, porcelain/sintered stone, slab splashback, integrated appliances)
Allowances: Strata approvals and lift bookings, electrical capacity upgrades for induction, plumbing relocation, floor levelling, and remediation behind old cabinets.
Tip: Keeping plumbing in place and choosing high‑pressure laminate or porcelain can deliver a premium look without premium costs.
Quick case‑style examples
Perth CBD — 7 m² galley turned entertainer
We replaced tired laminate with porcelain benchtops, added full‑height custom cabinetry and a recirculating 600 mm rangehood. A pull‑out pantry and soft‑close drawers doubled storage. Result: a sleek modern galley with better task lighting and more bench space.
Scarborough — L‑shape with breakfast ledge
In a beachside unit, we specified a shaker kitchen in matte 2‑pack with a tiled splashback. The L‑shape gained a 300 mm deep ledge for casual dining, an undermount sink and a 450 mm integrated dishwasher—perfect for a compact coastal home.
Apartment kitchen remodel checklist
- Measure lift, doors and stair clearances for benchtop/cabinet deliveries.
- Confirm strata by‑laws, noise windows and waste management requirements.
- Select appliance sizes early (450/600 mm dishwasher, 600/900 mm cooktop/oven, fridge cavity height/width).
- Check electrical capacity for induction and oven circuits (AS/NZS 3000).
- Plan ventilation: ducted vs recirculating rangehood per building constraints.
- Choose compliant materials (no silica‑containing engineered stone in WA; consider porcelain or laminate).
- Decide on layout: galley, L‑shaped, U‑shaped, or single‑wall with island.
- Lock in finishes: doors (laminate/2‑pack/thermofoil), splashback, handles, lighting.
- Book building manager for lift pads and access dates.
- Clarify warranties and after‑care for benchtops, hardware and appliances.
For reliable standards and guidance, consult the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and Master Builders WA; WA silica safety and engineered stone updates are published by DMIRS. Standards such as AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules), AS 5601 (Gas Installations) and AS/NZS 4386 (Domestic kitchen units) apply.
Why choose Joyce Kitchens for apartment kitchen renovations in Perth
- Custom cabinetry made in WA for millimetre‑perfect fits and fast lead times.
- Designers experienced in strata approvals, access and acoustic constraints.
- Premium hardware, soft‑close drawers and integrated storage solutions.
- End‑to‑end project management across kitchen, bathroom, laundry and wardrobe design—ideal for cohesive apartment upgrades.
Book a free in‑home consultation to explore layouts, finishes and timelines tailored to your building.
FAQ
How much does an apartment kitchen remodel cost in Perth?
As a guide, expect $15,000–$25,000 for a refresh, $25,000–$40,000 mid‑range, and $40,000–$70,000+ premium. Variables include size, finishes (e.g., porcelain vs laminate), appliance integration, and services like plumbing/electrical changes and strata‑related access costs.
Do I need strata approval to renovate my apartment kitchen?
Usually yes. Most WA strata schemes require approval for works affecting common property, services, acoustics, or building appearance. We provide drawings/specifications to support your application and schedule works within the building’s noise and access rules.
Is engineered stone still allowed in WA kitchens?
New supply and installation of engineered stone containing crystalline silica is banned in WA. For new projects, consider porcelain or sintered stone, or high‑pressure laminate. Existing engineered stone tops can typically remain but must be handled under strict safety controls if altered or removed.
How long does an apartment kitchen renovation take?
Design and approvals: 2–4 weeks, manufacture: 3–5 weeks, installation: 3–10 days depending on scope. Allow time for strata approvals, lift bookings, and any electrical capacity upgrades, especially when switching to induction.
Can you remodel an apartment kitchen without moving plumbing?
Yes—retaining sink and dishwasher positions saves cost and time. We can still boost storage with tall larders, internal drawers, and pull‑out pantries, and improve flow with galley or L‑shaped configurations without relocating services.
Keep strata‑timed projects on track with our budget for renovations calculator.
Make the most of limited storage—see finishes and steps in our renovating kitchen cupboards guide.
