Thinking about a kitchen makeover? Whether you’re refreshing doors and benchtops or planning a full renovation with custom cabinetry, this guide explains the design decisions, materials, layouts, budgets and timelines that matter in Western Australia. As Perth’s kitchen, bathroom, laundry and wardrobe specialists, Joyce Kitchens shares practical insights to help you create a functional, beautiful space that fits your lifestyle and home.
Why a kitchen makeover is worth it
Done well, kitchen makeovers improve day-to-day living and add value at sale time. From replacing dated laminate doors to a full redesign with a scullery or butler’s pantry, a considered approach delivers better storage, easier cleaning, and a more social, open-plan feel. Many Perth homeowners pair kitchen renovations with laundry upgrades or new custom wardrobes to keep the whole home cohesive and cost-efficient.
- Boost functionality with custom cabinetry and soft-close hardware.
- Modernise with a durable splashback and an easy-care benchtop.
- Optimise space in galley, U-shaped or L-shaped kitchens.
- Match your home’s style: Shaker kitchen, Hamptons, coastal or contemporary flat-panel.
Our kitchen renovation process (Perth & WA)
1) Consultation and measure
A Joyce Kitchens designer visits your home to measure and discuss how you cook, store and entertain. We also factor in WA requirements for ventilation, gas and electrical safety.
2) Design and selections
We create a tailored plan including layout, appliance fit (e.g., 600/900 mm ovens and canopy or integrated rangehoods), storage solutions (pull-outs, corner units), and finishes (melamine, two-pack polyurethane, timber veneer, porcelain or laminate). You’ll see drawings and can refine until it’s just right.
3) Quotation and timeline
We provide a transparent quote and staging plan. Most makeovers take 2–5 weeks on site depending on scope, joinery lead times and benchtop choice.
4) Manufacture and installation
Our Perth-based team manufactures custom cabinetry to suit AS/NZS guidance for domestic kitchens and coordinates licensed trades (cabinetmakers, tilers, plumbers and electricians) for a neat, on-time install.
5) Handover and aftercare
We walk you through care instructions for benchtops, doors and hardware so your kitchen stays beautiful and functional for years.
A secondary prep and storage space, often behind the main kitchen, to hide appliances and dishes and keep the main benchtop clutter-free.
A painted cabinet finish with a hard-wearing, smooth surface available in matte, satin or gloss. Great for Shaker and flat-panel doors.
Materials and finishes that last
Selecting the right materials is key in WA’s warm climate. Consider sunlight, heat near cooktops, and how often you cook or entertain.
Benchtops: choosing for performance and compliance
Australia has introduced strict rules for engineered stone products. If you’re considering this option, check the latest WA guidance and safe alternatives like porcelain/sintered stone, natural granite or high-pressure laminate. See WA Building and Energy and HIA updates for current requirements.
| Feature | Engineered Stone | Laminate (HPL) |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Good but avoid direct hot pots; check product guidance | Moderate; always use trivets, avoid hot cookware |
| Stain & scratch resistance | High stain resistance; use boards to prevent scratches | Improved scratch resistance in modern HPL; still use boards |
| Seams & look | Stone-like appearance, thicker edges possible | Wide décor range incl. stone-look; visible post-formed edges or square edge |
| Cost | Higher material and fabrication cost | Budget-friendly; excellent for makeovers |
| Regulatory status in AU | Subject to national restrictions; confirm WA compliance and installer licensing | Not restricted; follow standard install practices |
Alternatives worth considering: porcelain/sintered stone (high heat and UV resistance), solid surface (seamless joins, repairable), and natural granite or quartzite for a premium, durable finish.
Cabinet doors and panels
- Melamine doors: tough, cost-effective, modern textures.
- Two-pack polyurethane: ideal for a premium Shaker kitchen or contemporary flat panel.
- Timber veneer: warm and timeless; pair with matte black hardware for contrast.
Hardware and storage
Quality hinges and runners (e.g., soft-close, full-extension, push-to-open) make everyday use a pleasure. Ask about corner solutions, pull-out pantries and bin systems.
Appliances and sizing for Australia
- Allow for 600 mm or 900 mm ovens and gas or induction cooktops with correct clearances and ventilation.
- Rangehoods should be sized to cooktop width and ducted externally where possible.
- Fridge cavities: check width, height, depth and door swing; provide ventilation space.
Compliance matters. Gas work must meet AS/NZS 5601, and electrical work must be by a licensed electrician. Kitchen cabinetry should align with AS/NZS guidance for domestic kitchen assemblies and the National Construction Code (NCC).
Helpful AU resources:
Housing Industry Association (HIA),
Master Builders WA,
WA Building and Energy.
Layouts and styles that work in Australian homes
Smart layouts
- L-shaped with island: great for open-plan living and entertaining.
- Galley kitchen: efficient for narrow spaces; add a servery window if you can.
- U-shaped: maximises storage; consider a breakfast bar for casual meals.
- Add a scullery or appliance zone to keep main benches clear.
Timeless styles
- Shaker / Hamptons kitchen: two-pack doors, feature handles, subway tile splashback.
- Contemporary: flat-panel, finger-pull or shadowline, integrated appliances, porcelain benchtops.
- Coastal Perth: light veneers, white and sand tones, high-durability finishes for sun exposure.
Typical costs, timelines and approvals in WA
What influences cost
- Scope: facelift (new doors/benchtop) vs full reconfiguration with plumbing and electrical changes.
- Materials: porcelain or two-pack will cost more than melamine and laminate.
- Appliances: premium 900 mm appliances and integrated fridges increase budget.
- Trades and access: wall removals, structural steel and patching add time and cost.
Many Perth kitchen makeovers range from modest updates to complete redesigns. We tailor a quote to your home and selections so you only pay for what you need.
Timeline
- Design and selections: 1–3 weeks depending on revisions.
- Manufacture: typically 3–6 weeks for custom cabinetry and doors.
- On-site works: 2–5 weeks, including benchtop templating and install.
Permits and compliance
Most internal kitchen renovations don’t need council approval unless you’re altering structure or services significantly. Openings in load-bearing walls, new windows or extensions may require certification under the NCC. Gas and electrical work must be done by licensed trades and certified in WA.
Two quick Perth case-style examples
Cottesloe Coastal Refresh
We transformed a 1990s galley into an open L-shape with an island. White two-pack Shaker doors, oak-look panels, porcelain benchtops and a ducted canopy rangehood created a bright, breezy space. The client gained 30% more storage with pull-out pantries and a dedicated coffee zone.
Subiaco Apartment Makeover
In a compact apartment, we used melamine flat-panel doors, a square-edge laminate benchtop and integrated bin drawers for a cost-effective update. A 600 mm induction cooktop with a quiet, recirculating rangehood improved functionality while meeting apartment ventilation constraints.
Pre-renovation checklist
- Measure appliances (especially 900 mm ovens, fridges and rangehood duct paths).
- Decide on layout changes early to manage plumbing and electrical costs.
- Choose benchtops and splashbacks with heat and UV in mind for WA conditions.
- Confirm current regulations for engineered stone; consider porcelain or laminate alternatives.
- Plan storage: tall pantry, spice pull-outs, corner solutions, bin drawers.
- Set a realistic contingency (typically 10–15%).
- Book licensed trades through your project manager for AS/NZS and NCC compliance.
Beyond kitchens: bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes
Joyce Kitchens also designs bathrooms, laundries and custom wardrobes across Perth. Coordinating these projects together often saves time and achieves a consistent look throughout your home.
Why choose Joyce Kitchens
- Local, custom cabinetry made for WA homes.
- Experienced Perth kitchen designers who listen first, then design.
- End-to-end service with trusted trades and clear timelines.
- Showrooms to see finishes and hardware, plus samples to trial at home.
Ready to plan your kitchen makeover? Speak with the Joyce Kitchens team for an in-home consultation and a tailored design that fits your budget, style and compliance requirements.
FAQ
How long does a kitchen makeover take in Perth?
Most projects take 2–5 weeks on site after design and manufacturing are complete. The total timeline, including design and joinery lead time, is typically 5–10 weeks depending on scope, selections and access.
Do I need council approval for a kitchen renovation?
Internal kitchen makeovers usually don’t need council approval unless you change structure, openings or services significantly. Structural changes and extensions may require certification under the NCC; gas and electrical work must be done by licensed trades.
What benchtop is best for heat and sun in WA?
Porcelain or sintered stone offers excellent heat and UV resistance, making it ideal for WA conditions. Laminate is budget-friendly but needs trivets. Check current rules before choosing engineered stone and consider compliant alternatives.
Can Joyce Kitchens work with my existing appliances?
Yes. We design cabinetry around your existing 600 mm or 900 mm appliances and ensure correct ventilation, clearances and service points for compliance and longevity.
What’s the most cost-effective way to refresh a dated kitchen?
Retain the layout and services, replace doors and panels, fit new hardware, install a new laminate or porcelain benchtop, and update the splashback and lighting for a high-impact, budget-conscious makeover.
Use our kitchen prices guide to align makeover scope with realistic WA budgets.
Fine-tune ergonomics during your refresh with our kitchen bench height and standard sizes guide.
