Planning a kitchen with utensils in mind is the fastest way to a space that looks stunning and cooks even better. At Joyce Kitchens in Perth, we design custom cabinetry and benchtops that make everyday tools—spatulas, ladles, knives, baking gear and small appliances—easy to find and quicker to put away. This guide covers layouts, storage, materials, costs and a simple process for a smooth renovation anywhere in WA.
Core insights for a kitchen with utensils
- Design storage around how you cook: group cooking utensils and equipment by task (prep, cook, bake, serve).
- Prioritise access: use deep drawers with dividers near the cooktop, slim pull-outs for oils, knife blocks, and a utensil rail behind the hob.
- Think ergonomics: heavy kitchen items (mixers, slow cookers) belong between knee and hip height or on a lift-up shelf.
- Right-size for Australia: common appliance widths are 600 mm and 900 mm; allow clearances to AS/NZS guidance and the NCC.
- Choose durable finishes: heat‑resistant benchtops, robust hardware, and easy‑clean splashbacks matter in busy home kitchen spaces.
The kitchen is divided into zones—consumables (pantry), non‑consumables (plates, bowls), cleaning (sink/dishwasher), preparation (benchtop tools), and cooking (cooktop/oven). Place utensils in the zone you use them most to cut steps.
Our renovation process (Perth & WA)
Joyce Kitchens delivers end‑to‑end kitchen renovations Perth wide, along with bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes. Here’s how we design a kitchen that keeps your utensils and cookware in perfect order:
1) In‑home or showroom consult
We map how you cook (gas vs induction, baking frequency, favourite pans) and audit your kitchen things: knives, pots, spatulas, baking trays, small appliances. We measure for custom cabinetry WA homes demand—floors and walls are rarely perfectly square in older builds.
2) Design and selections
We propose a layout—galley kitchen, L‑shape, U‑shape, or island bench—with custom drawer inserts, a butler’s pantry, and smart kitchen accessories for cooking like pull‑out spice racks. You’ll choose benchtops, doors (e.g., shaker kitchen or handleless), splashback, tapware and hardware.
3) Approvals and scheduling
We coordinate trades and ensure compliance with the NCC and relevant AS/NZS standards (e.g., clearances for cooktops and rangehoods). For guidance, see the Housing Industry Association and Master Builders WA for best practice (external):
HIA |
Master Builders WA.
4) Manufacture and installation
Cabinetry is made to order. We fit soft‑close drawers, quality runners and hinges, and custom dividers for utensils equipment. Plumbing and electrical are carried out by licensed WA trades.
5) Handover and aftercare
We walk you through storage setup—where to place kitchen products for best flow—and provide care guides.
A premium painted cabinet finish cured for durability and a smooth look, often used on shaker or flat‑panel doors. It’s repairable and more heat‑resistant than standard vinyl wrap.
Materials and finishes
Your benchtop and doors should handle Australian heat, spills and daily cooking. Below is a quick comparison, plus popular options we specify in Perth.
Engineered stone vs laminate benchtops
| Feature | Engineered Stone | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Hardwearing, non‑porous; resists stains and scratches | Good everyday performance; can scratch or swell if water sits at joins |
| Heat resistance | Good, but use trivets; avoid hot pots directly | Fair; hot pots can scorch—always use trivets |
| Look and edge detail | Premium stone look; options like waterfall edges | Wide decor range; squareform/ABS edging mimics stone |
| Indicative cost (Perth) | $$$ | $ |
| Maintenance | Low—wipe with mild detergent | Low—wipe clean; avoid pooling water at joins |
Important WA note: Australia has introduced restrictions on high‑silica engineered stone. Many clients are choosing alternatives such as porcelain/sintered stone (e.g., Dekton, Neolith), solid surface, natural stone or quality laminate. Always check current WA guidance on silica and fabrication safety (external):
DMIRS WA.
An ultra‑compact surface made by fusing minerals under heat and pressure. Excellent heat, scratch and UV resistance; ideal for Aussie homes with lots of sunlight and hot cookware.
Cabinetry and hardware
- Custom cabinetry WA built to your room, maximising every millimetre.
- Soft‑close drawers, full‑extension runners, integrated bin systems and corner solutions.
- Door styles: shaker kitchen, coastal Hamptons, flat‑panel, matte or satin 2‑pack, or premium laminates.
Appliances and fixtures
- Induction or gas cooktop with utensil rail and magnetic knife strip nearby.
- Undermount sink with pull‑out spray, filtered water tap, and an easy‑clean splashback.
- LED task lighting under wall cabinets for safer chopping and cooking.
Layouts, styles and storage ideas
Popular layouts
- Galley kitchen: efficient for apartments; add drawer inserts for long utensils and baking trays.
- L‑shape or U‑shape: more benchtop; add a butler’s pantry for bulk kitchen supplies.
- Island bench: perfect for prep and seating; keep kitchen accessories in drawers facing the cook zone.
Style ideas
- Shaker: classic frames, engineered stone benchtop or porcelain, brushed nickel hardware.
- Contemporary handleless: push‑to‑open or recessed pulls, large banks of soft‑close drawers.
- Coastal/Hamptons: light palettes, V‑groove panelling, practical open shelves for everyday kitchen stuff.
Storage that makes utensils effortless
- Tiered cutlery and utensil trays, adjustable pegs for pans, tray dividers for chopping boards and baking sheets.
- Slim pull‑outs for spices/oils beside the cooktop; a hidden paper towel holder; internal drawers for mixing bowls.
- Knife block drawer, magnetic strip, or in‑bench knife slot near prep zone.
- Appliance garage for the toaster, blender and coffee machine to clear benches.
- Recycling centre with integrated bins and a compost caddy by the sink.
Costs and budget ranges in WA
Every home is different, but these ballparks help plan your renovation. Pricing includes custom cabinetry, benchtops, standard hardware and installation. Appliances, plumbing/electrical and stone alternatives vary.
- Facelift (keep layout, new doors/benchtop): from $12k–$22k+
- Mid‑range full renovation: from $25k–$45k+
- Premium custom with island/butler’s pantry: from $45k–$80k+
To save, many clients watch for a kitchenware sale to refresh utensils, or choose stylish but cheap kitchenware for infrequently used tools while investing in a quality knife set and pans.
Practical planning checklist
- Count utensils by type (spoons, spatulas, tongs, whisks, ladles, knives) and assign drawers.
- Measure your biggest items (wok, stockpot, baking trays) to size drawers and dividers.
- Choose cooktop (induction vs gas) and ensure compatible cooking utensils and equipment.
- Nominate a prep zone with at least 900 mm clear bench near the sink.
- Specify a knife solution (drawer block, magnetic strip) out of kids’ reach.
- Add a pull‑out for oils/spices within one step of the cooktop.
- Plan power points in the appliance garage and island.
- Select benchtop surface with the right heat/stain resistance for your cooking style.
- Choose splashback that wipes clean (large‑format tile, glass, or porcelain slab).
- Book licensed WA trades; follow NCC and relevant AS/NZS clearances (see
ABCB/NCC).
Two WA case examples
Mount Hawthorn: Compact galley, big function
A 1970s galley became a modern, handleless space with porcelain benchtops, an undermount sink and 600 mm induction. We added a 450 mm pull‑out for oils/spices, a tiered utensil tray, and a knife drawer beside the prep zone. The client cut 30% of steps during weeknight cooking.
Ellenbrook family home: Island and baking station
For a keen baker, we designed an island with a waterfall edge, deep drawers for mixing bowls, and vertical dividers for trays. A butler’s pantry hides small appliances, freeing bench space. The result is a calm home kitchen where everything has a place.
Buying kitchenware and utensils (and where they live)
While Joyce Kitchens focuses on design, manufacture and installation, clients often ask about kitchenware near me, cookware near me, utensil shop and kitchen supplies. In WA, there are plenty of retailers—choose durable, dishwasher‑safe tools and avoid single‑use gadgets. If you’re outside WA you might search kitchen shops Gold Coast, kitchenware stores Gold Coast or kitchen shop Miranda, but our Perth team services the metro area (including suburbs like Ellenbrook) with custom storage so your new kitchenware fits perfectly from day one.
Tip: Assign new kitchenware items a home the moment you unpack them. Rails and crocks are handy, but deep drawers with dividers keep benches clear and safer for kids.
FAQ
How do I plan a kitchen with utensils so everything has a place?
Start with a utensil audit and group by task—prep, cook, bake, serve. Place items at point‑of‑use: a tiered tray and knife solution in the prep zone, a slim pull‑out for oils/spices by the cooktop, and tray dividers near the oven. Use deep soft‑close drawers (not doors) for pots and pans, and add an appliance garage to clear benches.
What benchtop is best for Aussie homes and heat?
Porcelain/sintered stone offers excellent heat and scratch resistance. Quality laminate is a budget‑friendly option if you always use trivets. Engineered stone has been restricted in Australia; many WA clients now select porcelain, solid surface or natural stone. Whatever you choose, avoid placing hot pots directly on any surface.
How much does a Perth kitchen renovation cost in 2025?
As a guide: a facelift from $12k–$22k+, a mid‑range full renovation from $25k–$45k+, and premium custom from $45k–$80k+. Size, materials, appliances and layout changes affect price. We provide a fixed, itemised quote after design.
Do you service Ellenbrook and surrounds?
Yes. Joyce Kitchens services the Perth metro area, including suburbs like Ellenbrook, with custom cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes.
How do I choose cooking utensils and equipment for induction or gas?
For induction, choose magnetic bases (check with a fridge magnet) and flat, stable pans. For gas, pick heavier bases and heat‑resistant handles. In both cases, select dishwasher‑safe, BPA‑free tools and store them close to the relevant zone for safety and speed.
Ready to design your kitchen?
Book a design consultation with Joyce Kitchens. We’ll tailor your layout, storage and finishes so every utensil, pan and appliance has a perfect home—and your kitchen looks incredible.
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