Melamine Kitchen Units in Perth & WA: Durable, Stylish Cabinets | Joyce Kitchens

Why choose melamine kitchen units

Melamine kitchen units are a go-to for Australian homeowners seeking a durable, easy-care and budget-smart alternative to solid timber or 2-pack doors. Melamine cupboards are made from a decorative paper impregnated with resin and bonded to a substrate like moisture-resistant particleboard or MR MDF, creating a hardwearing surface with consistent colour and texture.

• Excellent value: melamine kitchen cabinets typically cost less than 2‑pack polyurethane or timber veneer while offering a modern, designer finish.
• Durability for family living: scratch, stain and UV resistance suits busy Perth homes, rentals and holiday properties.
• Design flexibility: hundreds of colours, matte and textured woodgrains, and realistic oak or walnut looks to emulate wood kitchen cabinets without the price tag.
• Low maintenance: wipe clean; no re-sealing like some natural materials.

Compared with wood kitchen cabinets, melamine cabinets present consistent finishes and better value; compared with vinyl wrap, they offer better heat stability near appliances. With quality ABS edging and soft-close hinges, melamine kitchen units deliver a premium look that stands up to daily use.

What is melamine? Quick definitions

You’ll also hear “board cabinets” used to describe melamine or laminate-faced board cabinetry. Joyce Kitchens specifies premium substrates and edging suitable for WA conditions.

Our WA renovation process

Whether you’re planning kitchen renovations in Perth, a new laundry fit-out, bathroom vanity or bespoke wardrobe, our tried-and-tested approach keeps your project on track.

1. Design consult: In-home or showroom meeting to discuss layout, storage, style (from shaker kitchen to sleek handleless), appliances and budget.
2. Measure & 3D: Site measure, compliance checks, and detailed 3D drawings so you can visualise your new space.
3. Selections: Choose melamine colours, textured woodgrain doors, soft-close drawers, splashback ideas, and benchtops (laminate, porcelain, sintered stone or natural timber).
4. Quote & approvals: Transparent pricing and timeline to suit your schedule.
5. Manufacture: Custom cabinetry WA-made to AS/NZS domestic kitchen assembly guidelines (e.g., AS/NZS 4386) and best practice.
6. Install: Qualified installers coordinate with licensed trades. We work to AS/NZS clearances for electrical and gas (e.g., AS/NZS 5601 for gas cooktop clearances).
7. Aftercare: Care guide for melamine cabinets; easy maintenance and hardware adjustments if ever required.

For standards, see HIA and Master Builders WA. Always use licensed trades and follow appliance manufacturers’ instructions.

Materials, finishes and hardware

Doors, drawers and carcasses

• Melamine doors/drawers: Extensive matte, super-matte and textured woodgrain options. Great for modern, coastal and Scandi looks.
• Carcasses: Typically white or coloured melamine carcasses in MR board for longevity. Area-specific sealing around sinks and dishwashers.
• Open kitchen cabinets: Consider open shelves or framed cubbies to lighten the space and display glassware.

Profiles and styles

• Flat panel: The most durable, cost-effective melamine option—ideal for handleless profiles and finger pull rails.
• Shaker look: Classic shaker kitchen style is usually 2‑pack or vinyl wrap; we can replicate the aesthetic with textured melamine, applied rails or contrasting handles for a framed effect.
• Two-tone kitchens: Pair textured woodgrain base units with light overhead cabinets for depth and balance.

Hardware and accessories

• Soft-close hinges and drawers: Premium systems improve feel and longevity.
• Organisation: Pull-out pantries, corner solutions, cutlery dividers, appliance pantries and integrated bins.
• Lighting: LED strip lighting under overhead cabinets and in scullery or butler’s pantry zones.

Heat and moisture notes for WA

• Keep melamine edges well sealed with ABS edging, particularly around sinks and dishwashers.
• Use heat shields/spacers beside wall ovens and dishwashers. Observe appliance clearances (e.g., typical 650 mm min to rangehood above gas, subject to manufacturer and AS/NZS 5601).
• WA coastal humidity and sun: prefer UV-stable decors in sunny kitchens and use window treatments where needed.

On benchtops, note that many jurisdictions have restrictions or bans on traditional engineered stone due to crystalline silica. WA homeowners should confirm current rules and alternatives such as porcelain or sintered stone. See Safe Work Australia for updates.

Layouts and styles that work in WA homes

Popular layouts

• U-shape & L-shape: Efficient zones with overhead cabinets and a pantry tower.
• Galley: Perfect for apartments and narrow spaces—add an island bench where possible for prep and seating.
• Island with scullery: Entertainer’s favourite; hide the mess in a butler’s pantry and keep the island clear.

Style ideas using melamine

• Coastal/Hamptons: White or pale grey doors, oak-look base units, shaker influences via handles and panelling details.
• Contemporary: Handleless profile, finger pulls, super-matte dark tones and timber-look accents.
• Family-friendly: Durable melamine with soft-close drawers, integrated charging, and wipe-clean splashbacks.

Local appliance sizing in Australia commonly includes 600 mm ovens and 900 mm cooktops. Allow adequate landing space either side of cooktops and sinks, and confirm cavity sizes for integrated fridges and dishwashers before cabinet manufacture.

Benchtop comparison: Engineered stone vs laminate

Costs and budgeting in Perth

Every project is unique, but these ballpark figures help plan your budget for melamine kitchen cabinets and complementary elements in Perth and WA.

• Melamine cabinetry (custom, supply & install): Small kitchens from approx. $8,000–$15,000; mid-size $15,000–$25,000; larger or highly accessorised $25,000–$40,000+.
• Benchtops: HPL laminate from approx. $300–$700 per linear metre; compact laminate and porcelain/sintered stone cost more—request a tailored quote.
• Hardware & accessories: Allow $500–$2,500+ depending on soft-close drawers, pull-outs and lighting.
• Trades: Plumbing, electrical and tiling are additional and must be performed by licensed trades.

Compared with 2‑pack polyurethane or timber veneer, melamine cupboards typically save 15–35% on door/drawer fronts while maintaining a premium aesthetic. For the best value, keep services in place, choose an efficient layout, and invest in storage that suits how you cook.

WA case examples

Case 1: Family galley with scullery, City Beach

Brief: Create a durable family hub with easy-care finishes. We specified textured woodgrain melamine base units, white overhead cabinets, a laminate benchtop with square edge, soft-close hinges and LED strip lighting. An appliance pantry and butler’s pantry keep benches clear. Result: a bright two-tone kitchen with the warmth of wood kitchen cabinets—without timber maintenance.

Case 2: Compact apartment kitchen, Fremantle

Brief: Maximise storage and make the space feel larger. We used super-matte melamine doors in a light neutral, handleless finger pulls, an integrated fridge, and open kitchen cabinets for display. A compact laminate top and slimline overheads kept costs down while delivering a contemporary, airy look.

Practical checklist: selecting melamine cabinetry

• Confirm door and carcass materials are MR-rated for wet areas.
• Specify ABS edging on all doors, drawers and exposed panels.
• Choose soft-close drawers and hinges for longevity and safety.
• Plan appliance sizes early (600/900 mm common in AU) and confirm service points.
• Add ventilation and heat shields near ovens and dishwashers.
• Balance closed storage with a few open cabinets or shelves.
• Select a benchtop suited to maintenance needs and WA regulations.
• Consider a two-tone scheme or woodgrain melamine to emulate timber.
• Allow contingency (10–15%) for unforeseen site conditions.
• Engage licensed trades and follow AS/NZS and manufacturer guidance.

Ready to design your kitchen, laundry, bathroom or wardrobes?

Speak with the Joyce Kitchens Perth team about melamine kitchen units, custom cabinetry WA-wide, and coordinated renovations. We’ll guide you from concept to completion with practical, durable solutions that look superb and suit your budget.

FAQ

Are melamine kitchen cabinets durable enough for busy Australian families?

Yes. Quality melamine with ABS edging and soft-close hardware resists everyday knocks, stains and UV exposure. Use MR board in wet areas and follow heat/moisture guidelines for long-term performance.

What’s the difference between melamine kitchen cabinets and real wood kitchen cabinets?

Melamine offers a consistent, hardwearing finish at a lower cost and needs little maintenance. Real timber provides natural grain and can be refinished, but costs more and needs more care. Textured melamine woodgrains are an excellent value alternative.

Can melamine cupboards be repaired, reskinned or painted?

Minor chips can often be repaired or the door replaced. Painting melamine is possible with specialist primers, but replacement is usually more durable and cost-effective for a full refresh.

Are melamine cabinets OK near ovens, dishwashers and sinks?

Yes, when designed correctly. Include heat shields/spacers, seal edges, and maintain clearances to AS/NZS and appliance guidelines. Avoid direct steam on door edges and wipe spills promptly.

How much do melamine kitchen units cost in Perth?

As a guide, custom melamine cabinetry starts around $8,000–$15,000 for smaller kitchens, $15,000–$25,000 for mid-size, and $25,000–$40,000+ for larger or highly specified designs, excluding trades and benchtops.