If you’re researching a “build in cabinet” (often written “built‑in cabinet”) or planning on making a cupboard that fits your home perfectly, this expert guide from Joyce Kitchens—leaders in kitchen renovations Perth and custom cabinetry WA—covers design, materials, costs and the step‑by‑step process for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes.
What is a “build in cabinet”?
A build in cabinet is a fixed, made‑to‑measure storage unit that’s anchored to your walls or floor for a seamless fit. Unlike a freestanding cupboard, built‑ins maximise every millimetre—under stairs, around appliances, or wall‑to‑wall in wardrobes and sculleries. In kitchens, custom cabinets accommodate an integrated fridge, an appliance tower, soft‑close drawers, and task lighting for a premium, tailored result.
Why choose custom over flat‑pack?
- Perfect fit for WA homes: handles uneven walls, older brickwork, and non‑standard ceiling heights found across Perth and regional WA.
- Durability: moisture‑resistant materials, pro‑grade hardware (e.g., Blum or Hettich) and precise installation that meets Australian expectations.
- Design freedom: choose Shaker kitchen doors, Hamptons style, handleless finger‑pull, or ultra‑modern matte.
- Better workflow: pantries, pull‑outs, LeMans corner systems, and scullery layouts designed to suit how you cook and live.
Our renovation and build‑in process
- Discovery + measure: We visit your home for measurements, discuss goals and storage needs (kitchen, bathroom vanity, laundry, wardrobe).
- Concept design: 3D renders and plans: U‑shaped kitchen, L‑shaped kitchen, galley kitchen, or island configuration with scullery options.
- Selections: Doors, benchtops, splashback, hardware, sinks (undermount or topmount), and LED strip lighting.
- Compliance + details: We consider appliance clearances and relevant Australian Standards (e.g., AS/NZS 4386 for domestic kitchen assemblies) and manufacturer installation guides.
- Quote + scheduling: Transparent pricing and timeline. We coordinate trades if you need plumbing, electrical or tiling.
- Manufacture in WA: Precision CNC cabinet making using moisture‑resistant board and quality edging for longevity.
- Installation + handover: Clean install, alignment checks, soft‑close tuning and aftercare tips.
For larger projects, we work seamlessly with your builder or renovation contractor and follow guidance from peak bodies such as the HIA and Master Builders WA.
Helpful authorities:
Housing Industry Association (HIA),
Master Builders WA.
Materials and finishes that work in WA
Cabinet carcasses
- Moisture‑resistant particleboard or MR MDF with durable edging—ideal for kitchens, laundries and bathrooms.
- Plywood upgrade available for specific applications (e.g., wet zones or lightweight needs).
Door and drawer fronts
- Melamine (textured, woodgrain, matte) for value and durability.
- Thermoformed vinyl wrap doors for sleek profiles.
- 2‑pack polyurethane for premium Shaker kitchen or Hamptons style.
- Timber veneer for warm, natural tones.
Benchtops and splashbacks
- Laminate: budget‑friendly with realistic stone and timber looks.
- Porcelain or sintered stone: heat and scratch resistant; great for WA’s warm climate and outdoor kitchens.
- Solid surface (e.g., acrylic): seamless joins and easy repair.
- Natural stone: granite or marble for a unique look—requires sealing and care.
Engineered Stone vs Laminate (at a glance)
| Feature | Engineered Stone (quartz) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Status in Australia | Traditional high‑silica engineered stone is prohibited nationally; check compliant alternatives | Fully permitted and widely available |
| Heat resistance | Good, but always use trivets | Moderate; protect from hot pots and pans |
| Appearance | Stone‑like; now look to porcelain/sintered alternatives | Huge range incl. stone/timber looks |
| Maintenance | Low for compliant alternatives (e.g., porcelain) | Very low; wipe clean |
| Typical cost (installed) | Mid to premium depending on alternative surface | Budget to mid |
Layouts and styles
Popular layouts
- Galley kitchen with appliance tower and pantry pull‑outs for compact Perth apartments.
- U‑shaped kitchen with peninsula seating and an undermount sink for busy families.
- L‑shaped with island and scullery for open‑plan living and entertaining.
Design styles
- Shaker kitchen / Hamptons style with classic profiles and satin 2‑pack finishes.
- Modern handleless with finger‑pull rails or push‑to‑open for a streamlined look.
- Warm woodgrain and timber veneer paired with matte black splashback and fixtures.
Smart storage and hardware
- Soft‑close drawers, deep pot drawers, and concealed bins.
- LeMans or corner carousel to use awkward spaces.
- LED strip lighting under overhead cupboards for task and ambience.
- Kickboards in matching colours or shadowline plinths to suit the style.
Cost guide for built‑in cabinetry in Perth
Every home is unique, but these ballpark figures help plan your project. All prices AUD incl. GST, supply and install; final pricing depends on scope, materials and site access.
- Kitchen built‑in cabinets (cabinetry only): from $10,000–$22,000 for small to mid; $25,000+ for large or premium finishes.
- Laundry built‑ins: from $3,500–$8,500 depending on tall storage, benchtops and splashback.
- Bathroom vanity + mirrored cabinet: from $1,800–$5,500.
- Wardrobe (hinged or sliding, internals custom): from $2,500 per room; walk‑in wardrobes often $6,000–$15,000.
- Upgrades: 2‑pack doors, timber veneer, porcelain/sintered tops, integrated appliances and lighting add cost.
We provide a clear quote after a measure, with options to value‑engineer using melamine doors, laminate benchtops, and staged works.
Practical pre‑renovation checklist
- Measure major appliances (most ovens are 600 mm wide; many WA homes opt for 900 mm cooktops—confirm cut‑outs).
- Decide on sink type (undermount vs topmount) and tap position to plan drawers beneath.
- Note power and plumbing points; allow space for dishwasher and bin systems.
- Choose your style: Shaker/Hamptons, modern handleless, or hybrid.
- Pick surfaces suited to WA heat and lifestyle (porcelain/sintered, solid surface, laminate, or natural stone).
- List storage priorities: pantry pull‑outs, spice drawers, appliance garage, broom cupboard.
- Set a realistic budget range and ideal completion date.
Short Perth case examples
Cottesloe coastal kitchen
A family wanted a sand‑friendly, easy‑clean space. We designed a handleless, white matte melamine kitchen with soft‑close drawers, a porcelain benchtop, and a scullery to hide the toaster and mixer. The integrated fridge and appliance tower kept lines clean while LED strip lighting lifted the evening ambience.
Subiaco terrace laundry
A narrow laundry needed serious storage. We installed floor‑to‑ceiling built‑ins in MR board with a compact laminate top, overhead cupboards for baskets, and a tall cupboard for the vacuum and mop. The result: everything in its place without crowding the hallway.
Ready to plan your build in cabinet?
From making a cupboard fit like it was always there to a full kitchen renovation, Joyce Kitchens designs, manufactures and installs custom cabinetry in Perth and across WA. Book a free in‑home measure and design consult to get started.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a build in cabinet and a freestanding cupboard?
A build in cabinet is fixed to the wall or floor and made to measure, so it uses every millimetre and looks seamless. A freestanding cupboard is movable and usually leaves gaps or wasted space. Built‑ins allow integrated appliances, custom depths and tailored storage that a standard cupboard can’t match.
How much does it cost to build in cabinet in a Perth kitchen?
As a guide, Perth kitchen cabinetry typically starts from $10,000–$22,000 for small to mid projects, and $25,000+ for larger or premium finishes. Final cost depends on materials (e.g., 2‑pack vs melamine), benchtops (laminate vs porcelain/sintered), storage hardware and site conditions.
Which material is best for making a cupboard in a wet area like a laundry or bathroom?
Moisture‑resistant (MR) board for carcasses is the standard in Australia, paired with durable melamine or 2‑pack doors. For benchtops, consider laminate for value or porcelain/sintered and solid surface for premium performance. Always seal penetrations and use quality edging.
Can you retrofit built‑in cabinets without replacing the benchtop and splashback?
Often yes. If your existing benchtop and splashback are in good condition and measurements allow, we can replace doors, drawers and selected cabinets while retaining fixed surfaces. We’ll confirm on site to ensure safe clearances and a clean result.
Are engineered stone benchtops still allowed in WA?
Traditional engineered stone containing crystalline silica is prohibited nationally. Choose alternatives like porcelain, sintered stone, solid surface, laminate or compliant low‑silica materials. For current guidance, check Safe Work Australia and consult your designer.