Looking for a trusted kitchen cabinet maker to upgrade your Perth home? Joyce Kitchens designs and manufactures custom cabinetry across WA, delivering smart layouts, quality finishes and smooth renovations for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes. If you’ve searched for kitchen cabinet manufacturers, cabinets maker services or kitchen cabinet builders, here’s a clear, local guide to help you plan with confidence.
Why a specialist kitchen cabinet maker matters
A purpose-built kitchen is more than doors and drawers. A skilled cabinet maker blends space planning, Australian standards and durable materials to suit Perth’s climate and lifestyle. Expect precise measuring, custom cabinetry WA manufacturing, and installation that aligns with local trades and compliance. The result: a kitchen that looks superb, works hard and lasts.
Core design insights that make a difference
- Work zones beat the old “triangle”. Group prep, cook and clean zones with thoughtful benching and appliance placement.
- Storage needs to be reachable. Mix deep drawers, internal organisers, pull-out pantries and corner solutions for everyday usability.
- Ventilation matters. Duct rangehoods externally where possible for open-plan living; check NCC guidance and appliance clearances.
- Hardware equals longevity. Soft-close hinges, full-extension runners and durable finishes outperform budget options over time.
Definition: Cabinet carcass
The structural box of a cabinet (sides, back, bottom, shelves). Doors, drawer fronts and hardware are then attached to the carcass.
Definition: 2‑pack (two‑pack) polyurethane
A factory-applied painted finish that is sprayed and baked for a hard-wearing, seamless door surface in satin, matte or gloss.
Definition: Moisture‑resistant (HMR) board
HMR particleboard or MDF is formulated to better resist moisture swelling, ideal for kitchen, laundry and bathroom cabinetry.
Quick local examples
City Beach family home: We reworked a dated U-shaped kitchen into a coastal shaker kitchen with a scullery. A 3.0 m island adds casual seating; HMR carcasses, matte 2‑pack doors, engineered porcelain benchtop and an externally ducted rangehood suit salty air and busy family life.
Fremantle apartment: A compact galley kitchen gained storage via full-height custom cabinetry and handleless, finger-pull drawers. Integrated fridge, undermount sink, LED task lighting and a mirrored splashback amplified light without crowding the space.
Our renovation process (step by step)
- Discovery & brief. We measure, discuss lifestyle, appliances and budget, including bathroom, laundry and wardrobe needs.
- Concept design. Floorplan, elevations and 3D visuals; choose from Hamptons style, modern minimalist, or a bespoke blend.
- Selections. Doors, colours, benchtops, splashbacks and hardware. We review heat resistance and cleaning needs for WA conditions.
- Final measure & approvals. We confirm sizes, compliance considerations and coordinate with your builder as needed.
- Manufacture. Custom cabinetry made for your space with quality control to AS/NZS cabinetry standards.
- Installation. Our installers work with electricians, plumbers and tilers for a neat, on-time handover.
- Aftercare & warranties. Care guides, hardware warranties and support for adjustments.
Materials & finishes
Choosing the right combination affects durability, budget and the look. Here are WA-ready options for doors, carcasses and benchtops used by leading cabinet manufacturers.
Doors & drawer fronts
- 2‑pack polyurethane: Seamless look; ideal for shaker profiles or flat panels. Great colour range.
- Laminates & thermolaminates (vinyl wrap): Cost-effective, tough everyday finish; wide texture choices including woodgrains.
- Timber veneer or solid timber: Natural warmth and character; best as feature doors or panels.
- Handleless options: Finger-pull rails or push-to-open for sleek, modern lines.
Carcasses (cabinet boxes)
- HMR particleboard/MDF: The WA standard for value and performance when properly edged and sealed.
- Plywood: Added screw holding and moisture tolerance; popular for wet zones or premium builds.
Benchtops & splashbacks
- Porcelain / sintered stone: Excellent heat and UV resistance—ideal for Perth sun and alfresco zones.
- Engineered stone (see note below): Check current WA regulations regarding silica content and fabrication safety.
- Laminate: Budget-friendly, stylish designs; pair with a high-quality edge for durability.
- Solid surface (acrylic): Seamless joins and repairable surfaces; warmer to touch.
- Glass or tiled splashbacks: Easy to clean; ensure appropriate clearance to cooktops.
Note on engineered stone in Australia: There are national restrictions on high-silica engineered stone. Many Perth projects now choose porcelain, sintered stone, solid surface or compliant low‑silica alternatives. Confirm current rules with your builder and Safe Work Australia guidance.
Comparison: Engineered Stone vs Laminate Benchtops
| Feature | Engineered Stone (see restrictions) | High-Pressure Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Very hard-wearing; avoid direct heat shock | Good everyday performance; use trivets and boards |
| Heat resistance | Moderate; use heat protection (WA summers) | Moderate; prolonged heat can mark |
| Appearance | Stone-like patterns; seamless undermount sinks | Huge range of colours and textures; square-edge looks premium |
| Maintenance | Low; wipe clean, avoid harsh abrasives | Low; wipe clean, avoid cutting directly |
| Typical cost (Perth) | Mid–high (check supply and compliance) | Low–mid |
| Lead time | Longer (templating/fabrication) | Shorter (cabinetmaker installed) |
| Sustainability | Varies by brand; silica controls apply | Good value; check E0/E1 boards and recyclability |
Hardware & lighting
- Soft-close hinges and full-extension runners: Smoother operation and longer life.
- Waste sorting & pull-out pantries: Makes daily living simpler.
- LED task and strip lighting: Bright, efficient and perfect for open-plan living.
Layouts & styles for WA homes
Popular layouts
- Galley: Efficient for apartments and terraces; suits 600–900 mm appliance runs.
- L-shaped with island: Great for families and entertaining.
- U-shaped: Maximises storage; ensure comfortable internal radius and clearances.
- Peninsula: A smart alternative to an island in tighter spaces.
Style cues
- Shaker/Hamptons: 2‑pack profiles, classic handles, engineered stone alternatives, tiled splashbacks.
- Modern minimalist: Handleless, matte finishes, integrated appliances, flush kickers.
- Scandinavian: Light timbers, soft whites, open shelving and warm LED lighting.
- Contemporary coastal: Textured laminates, porcelain tops, easy-clean surfaces for sandy feet.
Local detail: Most Perth homes suit a 900–920 mm bench height, 600/900 mm cooktops and 600 mm dishwashers. If planning a 900 mm freestanding cooker, allow for ventilation, service access and splashback protection per manufacturer instructions.
Costs, timelines & allowances
What to budget (Perth guide)
- Cabinetry + benchtops only: $18,000–$45,000 for most family kitchens depending on size and finish.
- Full kitchen renovation: $30,000–$80,000 including trades, splashbacks and minor building work.
- Premium/custom builds: $80,000+ with porcelain benchtops, integrated appliances and feature timber.
Allowances vary by scope. Appliance packages, flooring and window treatments are typically additional. Every project is quoted to a fixed scope for clarity.
Timeline
- Design & selections: 1–3 weeks, depending on revisions.
- Manufacture (after final measure): 4–8 weeks.
- Installation on site: 5–10 working days, plus benchtop templating where applicable.
Compliance & good practice
- Cabinetry built and installed to relevant AS/NZS cabinetry standards and manufacturer guidelines.
- Rangehoods sized to cooktop, with external ducting recommended for best performance.
- Gas and electrical work by licensed WA trades. Refer to the NCC and appliance manuals for clearances.
For independent guidance, see HIA and Master Builders WA. Building code resources: ABCB (NCC).
Pre-renovation checklist (WA)
- Measure room and note ceiling height, windows and doors.
- Confirm appliance list and sizes (600/900 mm cooktop, oven, fridge cavity, dishwasher).
- Decide layout (galley, L, U, island or peninsula) and seating needs.
- Choose door style (shaker, flat, handleless) and finish (2‑pack, laminate, timber veneer).
- Select benchtop type (porcelain, laminate, solid surface; check engineered stone rules).
- Plan storage: drawers vs cupboards, pantry solutions, corner units, bins, cutlery inserts.
- Lighting plan: task under-cabinet, ambient, and feature pendants.
- Ventilation: rangehood capacity and duct route to exterior.
- Services: gas/electrical points, water, drainage and any relocation.
- Agree on budget range, timeline and access for installation.
FAQ
How much does a custom kitchen cost in Perth?
For cabinetry and benchtops only, most Perth kitchens land between $18,000–$45,000; a full renovation including trades typically ranges from $30,000–$80,000, while premium projects are $80,000+. Final cost depends on room size, materials (e.g., porcelain vs laminate) and appliance choices.
What’s the best material for kitchen cabinets in WA?
For day-to-day durability, HMR carcasses with 2‑pack or high‑pressure laminate doors are a reliable choice. Add plywood in wet-prone zones if desired, and use quality hardware with soft-close hinges and runners. In Perth’s heat, prefer finishes with good UV resistance and always edge-seal exposed boards.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
From signed plans, allow 4–8 weeks for manufacture and 5–10 working days on site for installation. Benchtops that require templating (e.g., porcelain) can add 1–2 weeks. End-to-end, many projects run 6–10 weeks depending on scope and trade scheduling.
Do you handle bathroom, laundry and wardrobe cabinetry too?
Yes—custom vanities, laundries and built-in wardrobes (including walk-ins) use the same design and manufacturing process. We coordinate with your plumber, electrician and tiler to keep timings tight and finishes consistent across your home.
Is engineered stone still allowed in WA?
Engineered stone with high crystalline silica has national restrictions; many WA projects now select porcelain, sintered stone, solid surface or compliant low‑silica alternatives. Confirm current rules with your builder and check Safe Work Australia guidance.