Designing a tiny kitchenette that’s beautiful, functional and built for Australia’s lifestyle takes expertise. Whether you’re planning an apartment kitchen refresh, a small home kitchen remodel, or a compact kitchenette for a studio or granny flat, Joyce Kitchens brings Perth-made custom cabinetry, practical design thinking, and a smooth renovation process.
Below you’ll find space-savvy ideas and kitchen floor plans for small kitchens, modern kitchen designs for small kitchens, and costings relevant to WA. We’ll cover storage, layouts, materials and finishes, plus small kitchen renovation tips from our Perth team.
What is a tiny kitchenette?
Compared with a full kitchen, a tiny kitchenette focuses on essentials, efficient small kitchen layout, and smart storage. Done well, it elevates property value and daily convenience.
Core principles for tiny kitchenette design
1) Measure, plan and prioritise
Great tiny kitchenette design starts with accurate site measures and a clear wish list. We convert these into practical kitchen floor plans for small kitchens—one-wall, galley or L-shape—optimising the working triangle (fridge–sink–cooktop) for shorter, safer movement.
- Allow 900–1,000 mm walkway in a galley if possible; 1,050 mm is luxurious in tight spaces.
- Plan benchtop runs to fit Australian-standard appliances (most ovens/cooktops 600 mm; rangehoods 600 or 900 mm; slimline dishwashers 450 mm).
- Include power where you use it—kettle, toaster, coffee machine—per licensed electrician advice and relevant AU standards.
2) Storage first, then style
For compact kitchen and tiny kitchen renovation projects, volumetric storage matters. Custom cabinetry (locally made in WA) lets us use every millimetre with full-extension drawers, pull-out pantries, corner solutions and kick-drawer storage. Choose handleless or finger-pull doors to minimise visual clutter.
3) Light, reflective and safe
- Use layered lighting: task (under-cabinet), ambient (ceiling), and feature (pendants if height allows).
- High-reflectance splashbacks (glass, mirror-finish), pale doors, and continuous flooring help small kitchen designs Australia feel bigger.
- Ensure compliant ventilation. Ducted rangehoods are preferable in apartment kitchen settings where allowed by strata/by-laws.
4) Build to Australian conditions
Perth heat and coastal air can be tough on finishes. We specify moisture-resistant boards, quality soft-close hinges and drawer runners, and heat-resistant benchtop materials for small kitchen makeovers that last.
Note: Refer to reputable AU bodies for guidance, such as the Housing Industry Association and Master Builders WA, and always use licensed trades. See HIA’s homeowner resources and Master Builders WA for more information.
Our renovation process
Joyce Kitchens is known for kitchen renovations Perth-wide. Here’s how we deliver small kitchen renovation designs with minimal fuss:
Step 1 – In-home consult and brief
We assess your space, utilities and access, confirm measurements, and discuss your priorities—from a simple kitchen refresh to a small kitchen remodel with building works.
Step 2 – Design and 3D visuals
We create bespoke small kitchen designs Australia homeowners can trust: floor plans, elevations and finishes board. You’ll see how your tiny kitchenette design looks before fabrication.
Step 3 – Materials and appliances
We match your goals and budget with durable finishes and compact appliances suited to WA living. Options include porcelain or sintered stone benchtops, premium laminates, and integrated fridges or dishwashers.
Step 4 – Manufacture and install
Your custom cabinetry WA-made is crafted in our local facility, then installed by experienced trades. We coordinate licensed electricians and plumbers to keep the program tight.
Step 5 – Aftercare
We’ll share maintenance tips so your small kitchen upgrade ideas stay looking new. We’re also here for wardrobe, bathroom, laundry and scullery designs.
Materials and finishes that work in small spaces
Benchtops
With bench space at a premium in tiny kitchen remodel projects, durability matters.
- Porcelain or sintered stone: High heat and scratch resistance; thin profiles suit modern, minimal looks.
- Laminates: Budget-friendly, huge colour range, easy to refresh during kitchen makeovers for small kitchens.
- Solid surface: Seamless joins and integrated sinks for a clean, simple kitchen aesthetic.
- Timber accents: Warmth and texture; best used as feature sections away from wet zones.
Important Australian note: Engineered stone benchtops containing crystalline silica were widely used in the past. From 1 July 2024, engineered stone is prohibited for fabrication and installation across Australia. We specify safe, high‑performance alternatives like porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface and natural stone. Always follow current regulations and certified supply chains.
Cabinetry finishes
- Melamine and premium laminate: Hard-wearing, matte or textured; ideal for rental or family use.
- 2‑pack polyurethane: Sleek, colour-matched finishes; excellent for modern kitchen designs for small kitchens.
- Thermoformed options: Cost-effective profiles for shaker kitchen looks in compact spaces.
Splashbacks
- Toughened glass: Reflective, easy to clean, expands perceived space.
- Large-format porcelain tiles: Minimal grout lines; heat resistant for cooktop zones.
- Mirror-finish glass or stainless: Bounce light around; great in apartment kitchen ideas where natural light is limited.
Appliances for tiny kitchens
- 45 cm slimline or drawer dishwashers.
- 60 cm cooktop/oven or 2‑zone induction for ultra‑compact kitchen.
- Integrated under‑bench fridge/freezer for a seamless look.
- Combination microwave/oven to save space.
Benchtop comparison: porcelain/sintered stone vs laminate
| Feature | Porcelain / Sintered Stone | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Excellent; can take hot pans briefly (use trivets for best practice) | Moderate; use trivets—heat can damage surface |
| Scratch resistance | High; ideal for heavy use | Good for everyday use; avoid cutting directly |
| Seams and edges | Fine, almost invisible seams possible | Post-formed or square edges; visible joins |
| Cost (indicative in Perth) | $$$–$$$$ | $–$$ |
| Look/Feel | Premium, stone-like or concrete/terrazzo effects | Vast colour/pattern range including stone-look |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous, easy wipe-down | Low; gentle cleaners only |
Tip: If you previously considered an engineered stone benchtop, discuss porcelain/sintered stone alternatives with our team for a similar aesthetic without the compliance issues.
Layouts and styles for small kitchens
Best small kitchen layout options
- One-wall kitchenette: Perfect for small apartment kitchen zones. Stack fridge–sink–cooktop logically with 600–900 mm landing zones where possible.
- Galley kitchen: Two parallel runs; efficient and fast. Keep 900–1,000 mm walkway and use shallow cabinets or open shelves on one side if tight.
- L-shaped corner: Good for open-plan living; add a short return or narrow peninsula for extra prep space.
- U-shaped micro-kitchen: Maximises storage; ensure adequate internal radius to avoid congestion.
- Modular kitchen designs for small kitchens: Factory-built modules speed up installation and suit rentals or secondary dwellings.
Style ideas that keep things airy
- Modern minimal: Flat doors, handleless rails, light benchtops, integrated appliances for a clean simple kitchen feel.
- Shaker in soft whites or warm greys: Adds character without bulk; pair with brushed nickel hardware.
- Coastal WA: Textured oak-look laminates, white gloss splashbacks, and matte black taps for a crisp, modern vibe.
- Industrial compact kitchen: Concrete‑look sintered stone, graphite cabinetry and open metal shelves.
Quick WA case examples
Case 1 – Subiaco studio, one-wall small kitchen redo: We created a 2.2 m kitchenette with a 45 cm dishwasher, 2‑zone induction, and a pull-out pantry. Mirror-glass splashback and a porcelain benchtop made the space feel bigger. Installation took 3 days after fabrication.
Case 2 – Fremantle terrace, galley tiny kitchen remodel: Replaced dated laminate with sintered stone and added full-extension drawers. A ducted 600 mm rangehood improved ventilation, and LED strip task lighting transformed usability. Total program: 4 weeks manufacture, 4 days install.
Costs and timelines in Perth/WA
- Cabinetry + benchtop only (tiny kitchenette): From ~$12,000–$28,000, depending on finishes and storage hardware.
- Typical small kitchen renovations (turnkey): ~$25,000–$45,000+ with appliances, splashback, lighting, plumbing and electrical.
- Premium compact fitouts: ~$40,000–$70,000+ with porcelain/sintered stone, integrated appliances and custom features.
Timeframes: Design and selections 1–3 weeks; manufacture 3–6 weeks; on-site install 2–5 days for most small kitchen makeovers (allow longer with building works).
Always engage licensed trades and reference Australian requirements. See Housing Industry Association homeowner resources and Master Builders WA for guidance, and consult your local Building and Energy WA for permits or strata approvals.
HIA – Homeowners |
Master Builders WA |
Building and Energy WA
Practical small-kitchen checklist
- Confirm clearances: 900–1,000 mm walkway; 600 mm minimum benchtop depth.
- Choose a compact layout: one-wall, galley or L-shape—keep the triangle tight.
- Maximise storage: full-extension drawers, pull-out pantry, corner carousels, overheads to ceiling, kick drawers.
- Right-size appliances: 45 cm dishwasher, 60 cm cooktop/oven, combo micro/oven, integrated fridge.
- Plan task lighting: under-cabinet LEDs on a separate switch; dimmable ambient lighting.
- Select durable benchtops: porcelain/sintered stone or premium laminate; avoid banned engineered stone.
- Ventilate: ducted rangehood where possible; confirm strata/riser routing.
- Power and plumbing: position GPOs and water points early; use licensed trades.
- Splashback height: at least to underside of overheads; non-combustible behind gas cooktops per appliance requirements.
- Style smart: light colours, minimal handles, continuous flooring to expand the feel.
Related reading: For WA‑ready materials, real costs and scope, see our tiny little kitchen guide to complement your kitchenette planning.
If your renovation includes a powder room, our toilet makeover checklist covers smart layouts, costs and materials for Perth homes.
Ready to plan your tiny kitchenette?
From small house kitchen renovation to small studio apartment kitchen ideas, Joyce Kitchens designs, manufactures and installs premium custom cabinetry right here in WA. We also create bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes to match. Talk to our Perth team for small kitchen renovation ideas, advice on compliant materials, and a design that makes every centimetre count.
FAQ
What is the best layout for a tiny kitchenette?
The most effective layouts are one-wall or galley. Keep the working triangle tight, aim for a 900–1,000 mm walkway in a galley, and include full-extension drawers and a slimline pull-out pantry to maximise storage. For open-plan spaces, a short L-shape with a narrow peninsula works well.
How much does a small kitchen renovation cost in Perth?
As a guide, a compact kitchenette can start around $12,000–$28,000 for cabinetry and benchtops, while turnkey small kitchen renovations typically range from $25,000–$45,000+ depending on finishes, appliances and any building works. Premium compact fitouts can reach $40,000–$70,000+.
What benchtop is best now that engineered stone is banned in Australia?
Choose porcelain or sintered stone for high heat and scratch resistance, or consider quality laminate for value. Solid surface is another seamless option. We no longer specify engineered stone; our team will guide you on compliant, durable alternatives that suit your budget and style.
Can I fit a dishwasher in a tiny kitchen?
Yes. A 45 cm slimline dishwasher or a single-drawer model fits most small kitchen floor plans. We often place it next to the sink for efficient plumbing and ergonomics, with a bin drawer on the other side.
How do I make a small apartment kitchen feel bigger?
Use light, matte finishes; reflective splashbacks; handleless doors; and continuous flooring. Add under-cabinet task lighting, keep overheads to the ceiling, and integrate appliances to reduce visual clutter.
