Planning a new kitchen, bathroom, laundry or wardrobe in Queensland? Use this expert guide to compare cabinet materials, finalise a layout, and understand costs. Joyce Kitchens designs and manufactures premium custom cabinetry in WA, with Australia‑wide design support and wholesale kitchen units for homeowners, builders and renovators. If you’re after a custom designed kitchen, our designers can work remotely to deliver plans, finishes and documentation for smooth local installation. (joycekitchens.com.au)
What to know before choosing kitchen cabinets in QLD
Queensland’s warm, often humid climate means your cabinetry needs to be durable, moisture‑resistant and easy to clean. Whether you’re after a shaker kitchen, sleek handleless doors, or a family‑friendly layout with a butler’s pantry, start with these essentials.
Climate, durability and care
- Choose moisture‑resistant substrates (MR board) and robust finishes like two‑pack polyurethane, high‑quality melamine or timber veneer.
- Specify premium hardware: soft‑close hinges, Blum drawers, pull‑outs and corner solutions to maximise storage.
- Plan ventilation around ovens and dishwashers to reduce steam build‑up and protect surrounding panels.
Compliance and Australian standards
We design to Australian conditions and best practice. Cabinetry is detailed to suit appliance clearances and to align with local standards such as AS/NZS 4386 (domestic kitchen assemblies) and, for gas cooktop clearances, AS/NZS 5601 (gas installations), alongside manufacturer instructions.
For renovation approvals and insurances, consider advice from the HIA and Master Builders WA.
Our renovation and design process
Joyce Kitchens offers a collaborative, design‑led approach for WA and interstate clients, including Queensland homeowners.
1) Consult and measure
We review your space, lifestyle and budget. Interstate? We work from site measures, architect plans or a virtual consult, and coordinate with your local installer.
2) Concept and layout
You’ll receive scaled plans, elevations and 3D visuals. We test options like galley kitchen, U‑shaped kitchen or an island bench with integrated appliances and an undermount sink.
3) Materials and specification
We lock in door profiles (e.g., shaker or flat), finishes (two‑pack, melamine, veneer), internal accessories and your benchtop selection.
4) Manufacture
Cabinetry is precision‑made in WA to Australian standards. We can supply flat pack cabinets or assembled units depending on logistics and your installer’s preference.
5) Delivery and install
In WA we offer full installation. For QLD, we supply detailed shop drawings and labelled components for your chosen builder or cabinetmaker to install.
Materials and finishes
Cabinet carcases
- MR particleboard or MR MDF – Cost‑effective and stable for most homes; specify ABS edges for longevity.
- Plywood carcases – Premium option with excellent screw‑holding and moisture resilience.
Doors and drawer fronts
- Melamine – Durable, low maintenance; matte or textured finishes for modern looks.
- Two‑pack polyurethane – Smooth or profiled doors; ideal for Hamptons kitchen and shaker styles.
- Timber veneer – Natural warmth; consider a clear 2‑pack topcoat for durability.
- Thermofoil (vinyl wrap) – Budget‑friendly profiles; use heat shields near ovens.
Benchtops and splashbacks
Important note on engineered stone in Australia: From 1 July 2024, most engineered stone containing crystalline silica is prohibited for fabrication and installation nationwide. For new projects, consider porcelain/sintered slabs, natural stone, solid surface or high‑pressure laminate. For up‑to‑date guidance, see Safe Work Australia.
| Feature | Engineered Stone (legacy/repairs only) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | New fabrication broadly prohibited; only legacy works/repairs under strict controls. | Widely available in styles that mimic stone, timber and concrete. |
| Heat/stain resistance | High stain resistance; heat trivet recommended; subject to regulation. | Good day‑to‑day performance; use trivets and cutting boards. |
| Look/edges | Previously offered seamless stone look and waterfall edges. | Modern laminates achieve believable stone looks; square‑edge or tight‑radius profiles. |
| Cost | Not applicable for new projects due to ban. | Budget‑friendly; excellent value for rentals and family kitchens. |
| Alternatives | For new work: porcelain/sintered stone, natural granite/marble (sealed), laminate benchtop, solid surface. | |
Layouts and styles that work in QLD homes
Popular layouts
- Galley kitchen – Efficient in apartments and terraces; consider a slimline island for perch seating.
- U‑shaped kitchen – Maximises bench space; great for families and keen cooks.
- Island bench – Social hub with seating, integrated appliances, power points and recycling pull‑outs.
Design styles
- Shaker/Hamptons – Two‑pack shaker doors, classic handles, subway splashback, and a feature butler’s pantry.
- Modern handleless – Flat fronts, finger‑pull rails, integrated fridges and a flush undermount sink.
- Scandi coastal – Timber accents, matte whites and light stone‑look benches suit coastal QLD and WA homes.
Appliance sizing in Australia commonly centres on 600 mm ovens and dishwashers, with many families opting for 900 mm cooktops. Allow generous fridge recesses and ventilation for QLD heat.
Planning beyond the kitchen? We also design matching laundry cabinets, bathroom vanities and wardrobes for a consistent whole‑home aesthetic.
Costs and timelines
Budgets vary with size, materials and hardware. These indicative figures help QLD homeowners plan. All prices are AUD and exclude appliances unless noted.
Cabinetry (supply only)
- Small apartment kitchen, melamine fronts: $4,000–$9,000
- Family kitchen, melamine/two‑pack mix: $12,000–$22,000
- Premium custom with veneer/two‑pack and accessories: $20,000–$35,000+
Installation and trades
- Install labour (QLD typical): $2,500–$5,000+ depending on complexity
- Stone alternatives (porcelain/sintered): $1,100–$2,400 per m² installed
- Laminate benchtops: $400–$900 per linear metre installed
- Hardware allowances: hinges $7–$15 each; premium drawers $120–$180 per drawer
Full kitchen renovations (including trades, benchtops, splashbacks and appliances) commonly range $25,000–$60,000+. Bathrooms and laundries generally price lower. Timelines in QLD are typically 4–10 weeks from final design to install, depending on finish and workload.
Wholesale kitchen units for QLD builders and renovators
Need wholesale kitchen units for a townhouse project or an investment property refresh? We supply precision‑made cabinets and component packs Australia‑wide.
Options
- Flat pack cabinets – Pre‑drilled, labelled, with hardware kits; ideal for efficient transport and on‑site assembly.
- Assembled units – For rapid installs when storage and access allow.
- Shop drawings & cut lists – Clear documentation for your QLD installer or builder.
Specify Blum or equivalent hardware, moisture‑resistant carcases and a finish palette suited to rentals or premium owner‑occupier markets. We coordinate freight and can liaise with your local trades.
Although we’re renowned for custom cabinetry WA and kitchen renovations Perth, our design team supports Queensland clients remotely to ensure smooth installation outcomes.
Real Australian examples
Case 1: Brisbane family island upgrade
A Carindale family replaced a dated peninsula with a 2700 mm island bench, melamine cabinets and a porcelain slab. The layout created homework seating and concealed recycling. Result: 40% more storage and a brighter, coastal feel.
Case 2: Perth apartment galley refresh
In Subiaco, a compact galley kitchen moved to handleless matte doors, integrated appliances, and a laminate benchtop with heat‑resistant splashback panels. The footprint stayed the same, but functionality improved dramatically.
Practical checklist: getting kitchen cabinets right in QLD
- Confirm your layout (galley, U‑shape, island) and appliance list early.
- Choose moisture‑resistant carcases and specify soft‑close hardware.
- Select a compliant benchtop material for Australia (porcelain, natural stone, laminate, solid surface).
- Plan power, lighting and ventilation around cooking zones.
- Allow for heat shields next to ovens and dishwashers; protect thermofoil doors from steam.
- Request detailed drawings and a hardware schedule from your designer.
- Engage licensed trades and follow relevant AS/NZS standards and manufacturer clearances.
- Set a realistic budget and contingency (10–15%).
Ready to start?
Book a design consultation with Joyce Kitchens. Visit our Perth showrooms or request a virtual session for QLD projects. We’ll help you compare options, finalise a layout and deliver cabinetry that stands up to Australian conditions.
FAQ
What’s the best material for humid QLD kitchens?
Moisture‑resistant (MR) carcases with melamine, two‑pack polyurethane or quality veneer fronts perform well. Pair with premium soft‑close hardware and consider porcelain or laminate for benchtops.
Can Joyce Kitchens help if I’m in Queensland?
Yes. We design and manufacture in WA and offer Australia‑wide design support. For QLD, we provide drawings, labelled components and coordination with your local installer or builder.
Are engineered stone benchtops still allowed in Australia?
From 1 July 2024 most engineered stone containing crystalline silica is prohibited for new fabrication. Choose compliant alternatives such as porcelain/sintered slabs, natural stone, solid surface or laminate.
How much do quality kitchen cabinets cost in QLD?
As a guide, supply‑only cabinetry starts around $4,000–$9,000 for small spaces and $12,000–$22,000+ for family kitchens, with premium projects from $20,000–$35,000+. Installation, benchtops and trades are additional.
Do you supply wholesale kitchen units to builders?
Yes. We supply flat pack or assembled wholesale kitchen units with documentation and hardware, and can coordinate freight for QLD projects to streamline installation timelines.
If budget is key, see kitchen cupboards wholesale to weigh savings against custom flexibility.
Wherever you’re based, start with fundamentals—our kitchen design guide covers layouts, storage and workflow.
