When you choose a custom designed kitchen, you get a space crafted around the way you cook, live and entertain. Joyce Kitchens blends award-winning design, precision cabinet making, and licensed installation to deliver custom made kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes across Perth and Western Australia.
Why choose a custom designed kitchen?
A custom designed kitchen is tailored to your home, your budget and your lifestyle. From a compact apartment galley to a large family entertainer with an island bench and butler’s pantry, our designers optimise storage, workflow and natural light for daily use and weekend gatherings.
Core design insights that make a difference
- Workflow: We plan efficient work zones (prep, cook, clean) and, where suitable, the classic work triangle between sink, cooktop and fridge.
- Storage: Maximise usable space with full-height custom cabinetry, soft-close drawers, pantry pull-outs, corner solutions (e.g., LeMans), and integrated bins.
- Lighting: Layer task lighting under wall cabinets, ambient ceiling lighting, and subtle feature lighting for islands and display shelving.
- Appliance integration: Fit-for-purpose choices like 600 mm or 900 mm ovens, induction or gas cooktops, undermount sinks and concealed rangehoods—planned early so cabinetry, services and ventilation line up perfectly.
- Durability: Finishes selected for Australian conditions—heat, UV, coastal air—so your kitchen keeps looking great.
WA tip: In Perth’s open-plan homes, aim for at least 1000–1200 mm between the island and the back run for comfortable circulation. If you’re planning a 900 mm cooktop (common in Australia), leave adequate benching either side (ideally 300–450 mm).
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Our renovation process
- Design consultation: We discuss how you cook and live, your style preferences and budget, and measure your space.
- Concept & 3D renders: Layout options with elevations, storage detail and appliance integration for clear decision-making.
- Selections: Benchtops, cabinet finishes, handles, splashbacks, sinks, tapware and hardware (e.g., premium soft-close hinges and drawers).
- Technical check: Site verification of services (plumbing, electrical, gas) and compliance with Australian Standards and WA requirements.
- Local manufacturing: Precision-built custom cabinetry in WA for quality control and shorter lead times.
- Installation & licensed trades: Professional fit-out and coordination of qualified trades. Electrical and plumbing work completed by licensed contractors.
- Aftercare: Product care guidance and warranty support.
Compliance and quality: We work in line with relevant Australian Standards (e.g., AS/NZS 4386 for domestic kitchen assemblies; AS/NZS 5601 for gas installations) and recommend reputable industry bodies such as the HIA and Master Builders WA. For stone product safety and current regulations, see Safe Work Australia.
Materials and finishes that last in Australia
Your material choices drive durability, maintenance and budget. We’ll guide you through practical options that suit WA homes, coastal conditions and busy family life.
Benchtops
- Sintered stone / porcelain slabs: Highly heat and UV resistant, excellent for Australian sun and outdoor kitchens.
- Natural stone: Granite and some quartzites offer premium feel; sealing and care required.
- Laminate benchtops: Value-friendly, wide decor range, good impact resistance; avoid placing hot pans directly.
- Solid timber: Warm, repairable and beautiful; needs oiling or sealing and thoughtful design around wet zones.
Cabinet doors and carcasses
- Melamine/laminate doors: Durable, cost-effective, extensive colourways including timber-look.
- Thermoformed (vinyl wrap) doors: Seamless edges and popular profiles like shaker; check warranty and heat shielding near ovens.
- Two-pack painted doors: Custom colours, classic shaker kitchen look or modern flat panel.
- Moisture-resistant board carcasses: Essential around sinks, dishwashers and laundries.
Hardware and details
- Soft-close drawers and hinges: Smooth, quiet, longer lasting.
- Integrated bins and recycling: Keep the kitchen tidy and compliant with local waste practices.
- LED task lighting: Energy-efficient, excellent over benchtops and inside pantries.
Engineered stone vs laminate benchtops
Use this quick comparison when weighing look, performance and budget. Note: rules around engineered stone have changed in Australia—ask us about current WA guidance and alternatives like sintered stone.
| Feature | Engineered Stone (check local regulations) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Look & style | Consistent patterns; stone-like appearance | Huge decor range incl. stone-look, timber-look |
| Heat & UV resistance | Generally good, but avoid direct high heat | Good indoors; use trivets for hot cookware |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous surfaces wipe clean | Low; avoid harsh abrasives and standing water on joins |
| Budget | Mid to premium | Value to mid |
| WA considerations | Subject to evolving Australian regulations and site controls | Widely available; cost-effective for rentals and family homes |
WA tip: For alfresco kitchens, choose UV-stable, weather-suitable materials like porcelain slabs and exterior-grade cabinetry; standard interior laminates and boards are not designed for full exposure.
Popular layouts and styles
Layouts
- Galley kitchen: Efficient for apartments and terraces; add skylights or mirrors to boost light.
- L-shaped with island: Great for open-plan areas; adds seating and a prep zone.
- U-shaped kitchen: Maxes out storage; ensure at least a 1000 mm internal walkway.
- Butler’s pantry: Hide small appliances, prep mess and create extra storage.
Styles
- Shaker / Hamptons: Timeless profile doors, soft whites, brushed nickel hardware and classic tiles.
- Modern minimalist: Flat-panel doors, handleless lines, integrated appliances and matte black or stainless accents.
- Coastal Perth: Light, UV-stable finishes, sandy tones, engineered or sintered stone look, and textured splashbacks.
- Industrial: Concrete-look benchtops, open shelving, steel elements and durable commercial-style sinks.
Short case examples (Perth, WA)
Cottesloe Coastal Refresh: A dated L-shape became a bright entertainer with a 3 m island, shaker doors in satin white, porcelain slab benchtops and a concealed rangehood. Result: 40% more storage and better flow to the alfresco.
Mount Lawley Federation Home: We preserved heritage detailing with two-pack shaker fronts and a tiled splashback, added a butler’s pantry and integrated fridge. Outcome: period charm with modern convenience and soft-close functionality.
Costs and timelines in WA
Typical investment ranges (Perth)
- Refresh/partial: $12,000–$25,000 (retain layout; new doors, panels, benchtops, minor electrical/plumbing).
- Mid-range full renovation: $25,000–$45,000 (new custom cabinetry, quality hardware, stone/porcelain or laminate benchtops, tiled splashback).
- Premium custom: $45,000–$90,000+ (extensive cabinetry, premium finishes, feature lighting, integrated appliances, building works).
Appliances, structural changes and premium surfaces affect the final price. We provide a transparent, itemised proposal so you can prioritise where it matters.
How long does it take?
- Design & selections: 2–4 weeks, depending on approvals and product choices.
- Manufacture: Typically 3–6 weeks for custom cabinetry in WA.
- Installation: 3–10 working days for most kitchens; additional time for stone, tiling or building works.
WA tip: If changing from gas to induction, plan for electrical upgrades and ensure compliance and certification. Ducting rangehoods to the exterior is preferred for performance in Australian kitchens.
Practical pre-renovation checklist
- Confirm appliance specs (600 mm vs 900 mm cooktops/ovens; fridge width and depth; rangehood type and ducting path).
- Map services: water, waste, gas, power points, data for smart appliances.
- Decide on benchtop material and splashback early (affects tolerances and lead times).
- Finalise storage must-haves: drawers vs shelves, pantry pull-outs, tray dividers, bins and recycling.
- Choose lighting: under-cabinet task lights, pendant positions, dimmers.
- Set contingency: 10–15% of budget for surprises or upgrades.
- Schedule around life events; allow for temporary kitchen setup during installation.
FAQ
What is the difference between a custom designed kitchen and a flat-pack?
A custom designed kitchen is planned and built for your exact room, with bespoke cabinetry, storage and finishes. Flat-pack kitchens use standard sizes and modules, which can limit layout, fit and long-term durability in unique spaces.
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Perth?
Most projects run 2–4 weeks for design, 3–6 weeks for local manufacturing, and 3–10 working days for installation. Timelines vary with scope, materials and whether building works or stone fabrication are included.
What benchtop materials are best for Australian homes?
Sintered stone/porcelain and quality laminates are durable and low maintenance. Natural stone adds character with care. Engineered stone regulations have changed in Australia—ask about current WA rules and alternatives that suit your style and budget.
Do you handle bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes too?
Yes. Alongside custom made kitchens, we design, manufacture and install bathrooms, laundries, mudrooms and wardrobes to coordinate finishes and maximise storage across your home.
How much does a custom made kitchen cost in WA?
As a guide, a refresh can start from $12k–$25k, a mid-range full renovation from $25k–$45k, and premium projects from $45k–$90k+. Final cost depends on size, materials, appliances and any building work.
Ready to design your kitchen?
Book a design consultation with Joyce Kitchens to plan a kitchen that’s practical, beautiful and built for WA living—plus matching bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes that complete your home.