Looking for a kitchen that’s tougher, sleeker and built for WA conditions? Aluminium kitchen cupboards and aluminium kitchen cabinets deliver outstanding durability, moisture resistance and a crisp, modern finish — ideal for both indoor kitchens and alfresco spaces alongside an Australian made BBQ.
As a Perth specialist in custom cabinetry WA homeowners trust, Joyce Kitchens designs and installs premium aluminium, melamine and timber-look kitchens, plus bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes across the metro area and beyond.
Why choose aluminium kitchen cupboards
Aluminium cabinetry is engineered to handle WA’s coastal air, summer heat and alfresco living. Compared to standard moisture-resistant board (MR MDF) or melamine, aluminium frames and doors resist swelling, warping, termites and rust. They’re a smart choice for:
- High-moisture zones: scullery, butler’s pantry, laundries and bathrooms.
- Alfresco kitchens near an aussie made BBQ or a BBQ made in Australia.
- Low-maintenance, modern interiors with handleless or finger-pull profiles.
Cabinet carcasses and/or doors framed in aluminium extrusion with powder-coated or anodised finishes. Panels may be aluminium, glass, compact laminate or composite inserts.
Core benefits at a glance
- Moisture-resistant: Ideal for coastal Perth suburbs and shaded alfresco zones.
- Durable & stable: Less prone to swelling than MR board; highly UV-stable finishes when specified correctly.
- Hygienic: Non-porous surfaces and easy cleaning for family kitchens.
- Refined design: Slim sightlines, integrated lighting, and seamless handleless looks.
Local insight for WA homes
In Perth and coastal WA, wind-driven salt and temperature swings can be harsh on cabinets. Powder-coated, marine-grade aluminium (e.g., 5000-series) with stainless fasteners offers longevity for outdoor kitchens. When pairing with gas appliances, ensure clearances and ventilation are installed to manufacturer instructions and AS/NZS 5601.1 by a licensed gasfitter.
Powder-coating: A baked-on colour layer with excellent UV stability and colour range. Anodising: An electrochemical process that hardens and colours aluminium with a metallic sheen. Both are suitable when specified for marine or exterior use.
Quick Perth case examples
Cottesloe coastal alfresco: Aluminium cupboards with porcelain benchtops and a built-in australian made BBQ. Result: zero swelling after winter rains; easy wipe-down after entertaining.
Mount Lawley terrace kitchen: Slim aluminium-framed glass doors over a shaker-style island, engineered stone benchtop and LED strip lighting. Result: brighter space and durable, family-friendly surfaces.
Our Perth renovation & design process
- In-home or showroom consult: Discuss your vision, storage wishlist, appliances and finishes. We assess site conditions and WA-specific needs.
- Concept design & budget: Floorplan and elevations for galley, L-shaped, U-shaped or island bench layouts, with indicative pricing.
- Selections: Doors, profiles (shaker kitchen, Hampton style, flat), splashback, tapware, hardware (soft-close drawers), benchtops (porcelain, laminate or engineered stone per current regulations).
- Final measure & quote: Accurate sizes, integrated appliances, lighting and compliance checks to AS/NZS 4386 (domestic kitchen assemblies).
- WA manufacturing: Custom cabinetry WA-built for consistent lead times and quality control.
- Installation & trades: Licensed trades for electrical, plumbing and gas. We work to the HIA Guide to Standards and Tolerances and local requirements.
- Handover & aftercare: Care guides and warranty; optional service visits.
Useful guidance: See the Housing Industry Association and Master Builders WA for renovation advice and standards.
Materials, finishes & benchtops
Aluminium door and carcass options
- Frames: Slim aluminium extrusion, mitred or square-joined, with concealed hinges and soft-close hardware.
- Infill panels: Aluminium sheet (powder-coated), glass, compact laminate, or composite for texture/colour.
- Finishes: Powder-coated matte/texture, anodised metallics, woodgrain look, or two-tone cabinets.
- Details: Handleless, finger-pull or classic handles; integrated LED strip lighting; undermount sink cut-outs on benchtops; splashback coordination.
A man‑made stone product previously common for kitchen benchtops. In Australia, high-silica engineered stone has been restricted; many WA homes are moving to porcelain/sintered stone, natural stone or laminate alternatives. Always follow current regulations and licensed fabrication practices.
Benchtop comparison: Engineered stone vs Laminate
| Feature | Engineered Stone (subject to current AU regulations) | Laminate Benchtop |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Good, but use trivets; thermal shock can crack | Moderate; avoid hot pots directly |
| Durability | Excellent scratch/stain resistance | Good daily durability; can chip/scuff if abused |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous; avoid harsh chemicals | Low; wipe clean; avoid standing water at joins |
| Appearance | Stone-like look; seamless with undermount sinks | Huge colour/pattern range incl. stone-look |
| Typical WA supply-only range | Premium tier pricing; check availability/compliance | Budget to mid-range; very cost-effective |
Note: For up-to-date Australian guidance on engineered stone regulations and safe fabrication, refer to Safe Work Australia and your licensed fabricator.
Outdoor kitchens and BBQ integration
Aluminium cabinetry is a standout for alfresco areas. Pair with porcelain/sintered stone or compact laminate benchtops and an aussie made BBQ. Built-in appliances should be rated for outdoor use with correct clearances, ventilation and drainage. Always engage licensed gasfitters and electricians for installation and compliance.
Tip: Australian made BBQs often align with local sizing (e.g., 700–900 mm housings), making integration simpler for custom outdoor cabinets.
Layouts, styles & design ideas
Popular kitchen layouts
- Galley kitchen: Streamlined runs with an island bench for prep and seating.
- L-shaped kitchen: Efficient corner solutions; great with a butler’s pantry.
- U-shaped kitchen: Maximum storage and prep; consider corner hardware.
- Island-centric: Entertainer’s hub with integrated appliances and waterfall edge.
Styles that suit aluminium
- Contemporary & handleless: Flat panels, shadowline details, and push-to-open.
- Hampton style or shaker kitchen: Achieved via profiled aluminium rails and panel infills for that classic, durable look.
- Industrial coastal: Brushed aluminium, glass and timber accents for texture.
Whole-home joinery
Beyond kitchens, aluminium suits bathroom vanities, laundry cabinets and even wardrobe fit-outs where moisture or heavy use is expected. For interior doors, consider 2-pack polyurethane, high-pressure laminate, or vinyl wrap doors where a softer touch is desired — we’ll match metals and finishes for a cohesive look.
Practical pre-renovation checklist
- Confirm your appliance list (integrated fridge, cooktop, aussie made BBQ, rangehood).
- Choose layout: galley, L-shaped, U-shaped or island bench focus.
- Nominate door style: shaker, Hampton style, flat handleless or finger-pull.
- Select benchtop: porcelain/sintered stone, laminate or engineered stone (where compliant).
- Decide on splashback: tile, glass, porcelain slab or stainless.
- Pick hardware: soft-close drawers, bins, pull-out pantries, LED strip lighting.
- Set a realistic budget and contingency (10–15%).
- Book licensed trades early (plumbing, electrical, gasfitting).
Costs & timeframes in Perth/WA
Indicative pricing
- Aluminium kitchen cupboards (indoors): Typically higher than melamine; allow from $1,100–$1,800 per linear metre for cabinetry (ex appliances/stone), depending on frames, infills and hardware.
- Alfresco aluminium cabinetry: Allow from $12,000–$25,000+ for a compact outdoor kitchen with weatherable benchtops, a BBQ made in Australia and services.
- Custom indoor kitchens (Perth): Many full renovations fall between $25,000–$60,000+, with material, benchtop and appliance choices dictating the final number.
- Benchtops: Porcelain/sintered stone and natural stone usually price above laminate; engineered stone availability depends on current regulations and suppliers.
These are ballpark figures for guidance only. We provide fixed quotes after design and a detailed measure.
Timeframes
- Design & selections: 2–4 weeks depending on complexity.
- Manufacture: Generally 3–6 weeks for custom cabinetry WA-made.
- On-site installation: 3–10 days for cabinetry, plus trades and benchtop templating/installation.
Compliance tip: Engage licensed contractors and follow AS/NZS 4386 (kitchen assemblies) and AS/NZS 5601.1 for gas installations. For work health guidance on benchtop fabrication, see Safe Work Australia.
FAQ
Are aluminium kitchen cupboards worth it compared with melamine or MDF?
Yes. Aluminium kitchen cupboards deliver superior moisture resistance, dimensional stability and longevity, especially in WA’s coastal environment or wet zones. While the upfront cost is higher than melamine or MR MDF, many Perth homeowners value the durability, easy cleaning and sleek profiles, particularly for alfresco kitchens and high-traffic family spaces.
Can aluminium kitchen cabinets be used outdoors with an Australian made BBQ?
They’re ideal outdoors. Specify powder-coated or anodised aluminium, use stainless fixings and choose outdoor-rated benchtops. Position your Australian made BBQ with correct clearances, ventilation and drainage; gas and power must be installed by licensed trades to AS/NZS 5601.1 and local requirements.
Will aluminium doors suit a Shaker or Hampton style kitchen?
Yes. Aluminium frames can be profiled to mimic shaker rails with flat or v‑groove infills, then powder-coated in classic whites, soft greys or coastal tones. You’ll get the Hampton style look with the durability of aluminium.
How much do aluminium cupboards cost in Perth, and what affects price?
For indoor runs, allow roughly $1,100–$1,800 per linear metre for cabinetry (ex appliances/stone). Price varies with door profiles, finish quality (powder-coat vs anodised), hardware (soft-close, pull-outs), benchtop choice and site complexity.
How do I clean and maintain aluminium cabinetry?
Wipe with a soft cloth and mild detergent; rinse and dry. Avoid abrasive pads or harsh solvents. For alfresco areas, a quick freshwater rinse occasionally removes salt. Check hinges and seals annually and re-silicone benches as needed.
Once cabinets are set, browse kitchenware shops sunshine coast to stock drawers and open shelves.
Pair tough cabinetry with an aussie made bbq that’s built for local conditions and service support.
