Thinking about a facelift renovations kitchen project? If your layout still works but the space looks tired, a kitchen refresh can deliver a stunning transformation with less time, cost and disruption than a full rebuild. Here’s how Joyce Kitchens helps WA homeowners get the look, function and quality they want—without starting from scratch.
Kitchen facelift vs full renovation: what’s right for you?
A kitchen facelift focuses on visible, high-impact changes—new doors and drawer fronts, handles, benchtops, splashbacks, a fresh sink and tap, lighting and sometimes new appliances—while retaining sound cabinetry and a functional layout. A full renovation typically reconfigures the plan, replaces all cabinetry and services, and is ideal when storage, flow or compliance are issues.
A targeted upgrade that keeps the existing cabinet carcasses and services in place, replacing wear items and surfaces to modernise the room quickly and cost‑effectively.
Signals you’re a great candidate for a facelift
- Your cabinets are structurally sound (no swelling, rot or sagging shelves).
- The layout functions well for cooking and entertaining.
- You want a style update—think Shaker kitchen doors, new splashback and an engineered stone-look or porcelain benchtop.
- Time and budget are tight, but you still want custom, local quality.
When a full renovation is smarter
- You need a better work triangle, a scullery/butler’s pantry or an island added.
- Services must move significantly (gas, electrical, plumbing) or you’re adding a 900 mm range.
- Cabinet carcasses are water-damaged or the room has poor ventilation/light.
Joyce Kitchens delivers both kitchen refresh and full kitchen renovations Perth-wide, plus laundry renovations, bathroom cabinetry and wardrobe fit-outs to match.
Our renovation process (Perth & WA)
- Free design chat and measure – We assess your current cabinetry, appliances (commonly 600 mm and 900 mm sizes in Australia), ventilation and compliance, and discuss style goals from Hamptons to contemporary.
- Design & selections – Choose profiles (Shaker, V‑groove, flat), benchtops (laminate, porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface), splashbacks (tiled, glass, window), and hardware (soft‑close drawers, handleless rails, BLUM hinges).
- Compliance planning – We liaise with licensed trades. Gas and electrical must be completed by licensed contractors in line with AS/NZS 5601.1 (gas) and local codes. Rangehoods should be ducted to outside where practicable (AS/NZS 1668).
- Local manufacture – Custom cabinetry WA-made for a precise fit. Where facelifts retain carcasses, we make new doors, panels and benchtops to suit.
- Installation – Typical kitchen facelift installs take 2–5 days once components are ready; full renovations vary.
- Aftercare – Guidance on benchtop care, hinge adjustment and warranty support.
Moisture‑resistant particleboard or MDF used in quality cabinet carcasses in line with AS/NZS 4386 Domestic Kitchen Assemblies.
Quick WA case examples
Hillarys, WA (Kitchen Refresh): 1990s U‑shaped kitchen kept its layout. We added new thermoformed Shaker doors, a hard‑wearing laminate benchtop with a square edge, tiled splashback, LED task lighting and a new undermount sink. Indicative supply & install: $14k*.
Fremantle cottage (Full Reno): Compact galley re-planned to add storage and a pull‑out pantry. New custom cabinetry, 2‑pack Shaker fronts, porcelain benchtop with a waterfall edge, and integrated dishwasher. Indicative: $38k*.
*Price guides only. Site conditions, appliance choices and scope affect final quotes.
Materials & finishes that last in WA homes
Coastal conditions and warm summers in Perth mean choosing heat‑resistant, easy‑care finishes is essential. Below is a quick comparison of two popular benchtop options for facelift renovations.
Benchtops: Engineered Stone vs Laminate
| Feature | Engineered stone (see silica note) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Look & feel | Premium stone look, seamless with undermount sinks, waterfall edges possible | Huge range of colours/patterns, recent textures mimic stone/timber convincingly |
| Heat resistance | Good, but still use trivets; thermal shock can crack | Moderate; hot pans can scorch—always use a trivet |
| Durability | Scratch and stain resistant; avoid harsh chemicals | Everyday durability; edge impact can chip; easy to replace |
| Maintenance | Low; wipe with pH‑neutral cleaners | Low; non‑porous surfaces wipe clean |
| Cost (installed) | $$–$$$ | $–$$ (budget‑friendly) |
| Lead times | Template and fabrication add time | Generally faster |
| Compliance note (WA) | High‑silica engineered stone is banned in Australia (2024–25). We offer compliant alternatives like porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface or natural stone. | No silica fabrication risks on site; popular for quick facelifts |
High‑silica engineered stone has been banned nationally. Many homeowners now choose porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface or natural stone. For workplace safety guidance, see WorkSafe WA.
Cabinet doors & panels
- 2‑pack polyurethane: Painted finish in any Dulux colour, ideal for Hamptons and Shaker kitchens. Repairable and crisp.
- Thermolaminate (vinyl wrap): Cost‑effective Shaker profiles for a facelift. Avoid direct heat from ovens—use heat shields where needed.
- Melamine: Durable, modern flat profiles with realistic woodgrains and matt finishes.
Hardware & lighting
- Soft‑close drawers and quality runners for everyday comfort.
- Handleless rails or finger‑pull profiles for minimal contemporary designs.
- LED task lighting under wall cabinets for better prep visibility.
Sinks, taps & splashbacks
- Undermount sinks pair best with stone/porcelain; top‑mount for laminate.
- Tapware: Choose WELS‑rated mixers; gooseneck with pull‑out spray is popular.
- Splashbacks: Tiles (subway, kit‑kat), glass for a sleek look, or window splashbacks to bring in light.
Appliances in Australia commonly come in 600 mm and 900 mm widths. Confirm cut‑outs with your designer to suit your chosen oven, cooktop (gas or induction) and rangehood.
Layouts & styles that work: from Shaker to modern minimalist
Whether you prefer a coastal Hamptons look or a streamlined contemporary space, our designers balance aesthetics with practical storage and workflow.
Popular layouts
- L‑shaped with island for open‑plan living and entertaining.
- U‑shaped for maximum bench space and clear work zones.
- Galley for narrow rooms; add a scullery/butler’s pantry if space allows.
Style options
- Shaker kitchen / Hamptons: 2‑pack or thermoformed doors, feature handles, tiled splashback.
- Modern minimalist: Flat melamine or 2‑pack, handleless rails, porcelain benchtop, integrated appliances.
- Scandi / Coastal WA: Light timbers, soft whites, durable surfaces for sun‑soaked rooms.
Benchtop material continued down the side of an island or cabinet to the floor for a seamless, premium look.
Costs, timelines and allowances
Typical pricing in Perth (guide only)
- Kitchen facelift (doors/drawers, benchtop, splashback, sink/tap, basic electrical/plumbing): $8,000–$25,000+
- Mid‑range renovation (new cabinetry, quality benchtop, scullery options): $25,000–$45,000+
- Premium custom (porcelain/sintered stone, integrated appliances, bespoke features): $45,000–$80,000+
Appliances, flooring and building works (e.g., wall removal) are additional. All works must meet relevant Australian Standards and local council requirements where applicable.
Timelines
- Design & selections: 1–3 weeks
- Manufacture: 3–6 weeks depending on finishes
- On‑site install: 2–5 days for a facelift; 1–3 weeks for full renovations
Facelift planning checklist
- Confirm your scope: refresh only vs minor layout tweaks
- Decide your style: Shaker, Hamptons, or modern flat panel
- Pick a benchtop: laminate for value; porcelain for premium performance
- Choose door finish: melamine, thermoformed or 2‑pack polyurethane
- Hardware upgrades: soft‑close drawers and quality hinges
- Lighting: add LED task and ambient lighting
- Splashback: tile, glass or window splashback
- Appliances: confirm sizes (600/900 mm) and power/gas needs
- Compliance: licensed electrician and plumber; duct rangehood outside
- Aftercare: ask for care guides and warranty details
For guidance on contracts and building processes, explore resources from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and Master Builders WA.
Why Joyce Kitchens for your Perth kitchen refresh?
- Custom cabinetry WA‑made for a precise, durable fit.
- End‑to‑end service from measure and design to installation.
- Experienced designers across kitchens, laundries, bathrooms and wardrobes for a consistent home look.
- Local knowledge of WA climate, appliance availability and Australian Standards.
Ready to plan your facelift renovations kitchen? Book a complimentary design consultation and see how far a kitchen refresh can take your home.
FAQ
What is a kitchen facelift and how is it different from a full renovation?
A kitchen facelift (kitchen refresh) updates the visible elements—doors, benchtops, splashback, sink/tap, lighting and sometimes appliances—while keeping sound cabinet carcasses and the existing layout. A full renovation replaces all cabinetry, may reconfigure the plan and move services for a completely new kitchen.
How much does a kitchen facelift cost in Perth?
As a guide, a Perth kitchen facelift ranges from $8,000 to $25,000+ depending on size, benchtop choice (laminate vs porcelain), door finish (melamine, thermoformed or 2‑pack), splashback and any appliance upgrades. A detailed measure and quote will refine your budget.
Can I keep my existing cabinets and just replace doors and benchtops?
Yes—if your cabinet carcasses are structurally sound (no swelling, rot or loose joints). Many WA homes get great results by replacing doors/drawers, panels, benchtops and handles, then adding LED lighting and a fresh splashback.
Are engineered stone benchtops still allowed in WA?
High‑silica engineered stone has been banned in Australia. We offer compliant alternatives such as porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface and natural stone that deliver premium looks without silica fabrication risks. Ask our designers for current options.
How long does a kitchen refresh take from measure to install?
Most kitchen facelifts take around 4–8 weeks end‑to‑end: 1–3 weeks for design/selections, 3–6 weeks for manufacture, and 2–5 days on site for installation, depending on scope and materials.
