Make the most of your home with tailored small renovations that add value, improve flow and elevate everyday living. Joyce Kitchens designs and delivers space-smart kitchen renovations Perth homeowners love, plus thoughtful bathroom remodels, laundry fit-outs and wardrobe design — all crafted with custom cabinetry WA standards.
Working on a powder room too? small toilet ideas with window balance daylight, privacy and ventilation.
Why small renovations deliver big results
Targeted small renovations focus on the high-impact rooms you use every day: kitchen, bathroom, laundry and storage. Compared with a full extension, they:
- Maximise resale appeal with improved layouts, soft-close drawers and smarter storage
- Work within existing services for faster turnaround and less disruption
- Stretch your budget further with curated upgrades like a new benchtop upgrade, tiled splashback and LED task lighting
- Suit apartments, units and townhouses where footprint is fixed
From a compact shaker kitchen refresh to a tidy laundry fit-out or sliding wardrobe, we help WA homeowners unlock form and function.
What counts as a small renovation?
Small home renovations typically retain the existing footprint and structural walls. They may include:
- New cabinets, doors and panels (melamine, thermofoil, 2‑pack polyurethane)
- Benchtop replacement (laminate, solid surface, natural stone, porcelain/sintered stone)
- Updated appliances and fixtures (e.g., 600 mm cooktop, 900 mm freestanding oven in family kitchens)
- Splashbacks (ceramic tile, glass, porcelain slab) and undermount sink swap
- Wardrobe internals and sliding doors; laundry cabinets and trough upgrades
- 2‑pack polyurethane: A painted, baked-on cabinet finish with excellent durability and smooth sheen.
- Thermofoil (vinyl wrap): A heat-applied film over MDF for seamless profiled doors at a sharp price point.
- Sintered stone/porcelain: Ultra-compact surfaces fired at high temperature; stain, heat and UV resistant.
We can manage end-to-end or collaborate with your small renovation builder to suit your timeline and budget.
Our small renovation process
- In-home consult: Measure, discuss wish-list, budget and timeline.
- Design & layout: Options for galley, L‑shaped, U‑shaped or peninsula kitchens; storage planning for pantries and laundries.
- Selections: Cabinet profiles (e.g., shaker or handleless), benchtops, splashbacks, hardware and appliances.
- Detailed quoting: Transparent scope for cabinetry, trades, and optional works.
- Compliance check: We align with relevant AS/NZS standards and local requirements; licensed trades for electrical, plumbing and gas.
- Production: Precision-made custom cabinetry in WA for a superior fit.
- Installation: Coordinated trades, dust-minimised works, and clear site communication.
- Handover: Final checks, care instructions and warranties.
Smart materials & finishes for small spaces
Benchtops: Laminate vs Engineered Stone (and today’s best alternatives)
Benchtops set the tone for daily use and durability. If you’re refreshing a compact kitchen, weigh cost, resilience and maintenance.
| Feature | Laminate | Engineered Stone (quartz) |
|---|---|---|
| Indicative cost (supply & install) | $ | $$$ |
| Heat & stain resistance | Good with care (use trivets) | High; very durable |
| Seams & edging | Visible joins; modern square edges available | Seams can be minimised; thicker edges possible |
| Maintenance | Low; avoid harsh abrasives | Low; wipe clean |
| Suitability for small renovations | Excellent budget-friendly uplift | Premium look; confirm current WA regulations |
Important WA note: Engineered stone containing crystalline silica has been restricted/banned in many Australian jurisdictions. Consider modern porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface (acrylic), timber or sealed natural stone as high-performing alternatives. Always check current WA guidance before specifying engineered stone.
Cabinetry & doors
- Melamine for value; modern textures and colours mimic timber or matt paint.
- Thermofoil doors for classic profiles, including the timeless shaker kitchen look.
- 2‑pack polyurethane for premium, paint-like finish in satin or matt.
- Space-savers: pull-out pantries, corner lazy Susans, vertical tray dividers, and under-sink organisers.
Splashbacks
- Ceramic or porcelain tiles for durability and easy replacement.
- Toughened glass for sleek, reflective light in galley kitchens.
- Large-format porcelain slabs: minimal grout, luxe look in small spaces.
Fixtures, lighting & appliances
- LED task lighting under wall cabinets for safe prep zones.
- Compact, efficient appliances: 450 mm dishwashers, 600 mm cooktops, integrated fridges to streamline lines.
- Mix of pull-out bins, cutlery inserts and soft-close drawers for quiet convenience.
- Ventilation and clearances to suit Australian sizes and AS/NZS requirements.
Layouts & styles that maximise space
Layouts that work in WA homes
- Galley kitchen: Best for apartments; 900 mm walkway target, continuous prep run.
- L‑shaped with peninsula: Adds casual seating and extra storage without a full island.
- U‑shaped kitchen: Maximises corner storage; use drawers and corner solutions for access.
- One-wall kitchen: Pair with tall pantry and appliance tower; ideal for studios.
Style ideas
- Classic shaker in warm whites with brushed nickel handles.
- Contemporary handleless with matt doors and shadowline finger pulls.
- Scullery or walk-in pantry where depth allows; or a compact pantry with pull-out wire systems.
- Statement tiled splashback to add colour without overpowering a small space.
Costs & timelines in Perth
Budgets vary with scope, materials and trades. The ranges below reflect typical small home renovations in Perth and surrounding WA areas:
- Small kitchen refresh: $8,000–$20,000 (cabinet doors/drawer fronts, laminate benchtop, new sink/tap, splashback)
- Mid-range small kitchen: $20,000–$40,000 (new custom cabinetry, premium surfaces, appliance updates)
- Compact bathroom remodel: $15,000–$30,000 (tiles, vanity, shower, tapware; waterproofing to AS 3740)
- Laundry fit-out: $5,000–$15,000 (cabinets, benchtop, sink, tile splashback)
- Wardrobe design & install: $2,000–$10,000 (internals, sliding/hinged doors)
Need a bath in a compact footprint? See our small tub shower combo guide for dimensions and cost ranges.
Typical timelines: Design/quoting 1–3 weeks; production 3–6 weeks; on-site installation 2–7 days for kitchens (allow longer if re-tiling or moving services).
WA compliance, standards & warranties
- Domestic kitchen assemblies should align with AS/NZS 4386.
- Wet area waterproofing follows AS 3740 requirements.
- Gas appliances and ventilation must comply with AS/NZS 5601 and be installed by licensed gasfitters.
- Electrical works must be completed by licensed electricians; ensure RCDs and required circuitry.
For guidance, see:
HIA,
Master Builders WA and
WA Building and Energy.
If considering engineered stone, check the latest WA guidance on permissible products and alternatives.
Two WA case-style examples
1) Leederville apartment galley kitchen
Scope: Replace older flat-pack with custom cabinetry, new laminate benchtop, tiled splashback and integrated 450 mm dishwasher. Outcome: 35% more storage with pull-out pantry and soft-close drawers, brighter LED task lighting, and a sleek handleless look — completed in five installation days.
2) Rockingham laundry refresh
Scope: Add tall broom cupboard, overheads and durable benchtop for front-loader stacking. Outcome: Family-friendly sorting station, easy-clean finishes, and improved ventilation; delivered in three days with minimal downtime.
Practical checklist for small renovations
- Define priorities: storage, seating, larger fridge, or easier cleaning?
- Measure fixed elements: window heights, door swings, existing plumbing and power points.
- Set a realistic budget range and a 10–15% contingency.
- Choose a style direction: shaker, coastal, or sleek contemporary.
- Confirm appliance sizes: 600 mm vs 900 mm cooktop/oven; fridge cavity width and height.
- Select surfaces for durability and maintenance that suit WA conditions (heat, sun exposure).
- Plan lighting: task, ambient and under-cabinet LEDs.
- Book licensed trades early for plumbing, electrical and gas.
- Ask about warranties, care, and service after installation.
- Decide whether you’ll supply appliances or prefer a turnkey package.
Ready to start?
Whether you’re updating a compact kitchen or planning a tidy bathroom/laundry duo, Joyce Kitchens delivers design-first small renovations with quality Perth-made cabinetry. We can coordinate with your small renovation builder or manage cabinetry, benchtops and finishes end-to-end. Book a design consult and see what’s possible in your space.
FAQ
What is considered a small renovation?
A small renovation typically keeps your existing footprint and services while upgrading high-impact elements: new custom cabinetry, benchtops, splashbacks, fixtures and storage. It suits kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes where walls stay put but functionality and finish jump significantly.
How much do small kitchen renovations cost in Perth?
In Perth, a compact kitchen refresh often ranges from $8,000–$20,000, while mid-range upgrades with new cabinetry and premium surfaces are commonly $20,000–$40,000. Final pricing depends on materials (e.g., laminate vs porcelain/sintered stone), appliance choices and on-site conditions.
Do I need council approval in WA for a small renovation?
Like-for-like kitchen and laundry upgrades usually don’t need building approval, but any structural changes, window/door alterations or major plumbing/electrical relocations may require permits. Gas, electrical and plumbing must be completed by licensed trades in WA. Check with your local council or WA Building and Energy.
What’s the best benchtop for a small kitchen in WA?
For value and fast installation, laminate performs well. For premium durability, consider porcelain/sintered stone or solid surface. Engineered stone containing crystalline silica has restrictions/bans in many jurisdictions — confirm current WA guidance and consider modern alternatives with similar performance.
Can Joyce Kitchens work with my small renovation builder?
Yes. We regularly collaborate with small renovation builders or can coordinate cabinetry, benchtops and finishes directly. Our team provides detailed plans and timelines to keep your project on track.
