If you’ve typed “kitchen remodel kitchen” or similar into Google, you’re probably weighing up whether to refresh or fully renovate. This guide brings together practical design advice, WA-specific compliance notes, realistic costs, and our proven process at Joyce Kitchens—Perth’s trusted team for custom cabinetry, kitchen renovations, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes.
Kitchen remodel overview
A great kitchen remodel balances function, durability and style. Whether you want a light-touch kitchen update or a full kitchen renovation, the aim is a space that cooks well, looks timeless, and adds value. For many Perth homes, that means better storage, a smarter layout, compliant services, and hard-wearing benchtops.
- Design around how you cook, clean and entertain—then choose finishes.
- Invest in custom cabinetry WA homeowners rely on for fit and longevity.
- Plan appliance sizes early (600 mm and 900 mm ovens/cooktops are common in Australia).
- Ventilate properly—duct rangehoods outside, especially with gas or high-heat cooking.
Joyce Kitchens specialises in kitchen remodel design, kitchen cabinet remodel solutions, kitchen refits and full kitchen remodel projects across Perth and WA. We also deliver cohesive bathroom, laundry and wardrobe upgrades for a whole-of-home feel.
Refit: retain the room footprint and services; replace doors, panels, benchtops and possibly appliances. Full renovation: redesign layout, new cabinetry, new benchtops and splashbacks, plus electrical/plumbing changes.
Popular directions include a Hamptons or Shaker kitchen with soft-close drawers, a coastal Perth palette, or a sleek contemporary kitchen with integrated appliances. For kitchen improvement ideas and kitchen makeover designs, our showroom displays and kitchen remodel photos will help you visualise options.
Our renovation process (step-by-step)
1) In-home consult and measure
We assess existing services, measure precisely, and discuss storage needs (butler’s pantry, scullery, island bench, pull-out pantries, corner solutions, toe-kick drawers).
2) Concept design and 3D visuals
Your designer presents floor plans, elevations and 3D renders so you can compare a galley kitchen versus an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen with island.
3) Selections
Cabinet doors (melamine, 2-pack polyurethane, timber veneer), benchtops (see WA note below), splashbacks (tiled, glass, window), sinks and taps, hardware (Blum-style soft-close hinges and runners), lighting (task and LED strip lighting).
4) Quote, timeline and approvals
We confirm scope and coordinate trades. Where structural changes or wet-area moves are proposed, we help navigate approvals with licensed professionals and WA requirements.
5) Local manufacture
Custom cabinetry is made in WA for accuracy and faster turnarounds.
6) Site preparation and installation
Demolition, services rough-in (AS/NZS 3000 electrical and AS/NZS 3500 plumbing), cabinetry install, benchtops and splashback, appliances, final fit-off.
7) Handover
We complete quality checks and provide care instructions and warranties.
Electrical work must meet AS/NZS 3000 and be done by a licensed electrician. Plumbing must meet AS/NZS 3500 by a licensed plumber. Vent gas appliances correctly and duct rangehoods outdoors where required. Check with your local council or a building surveyor for structural changes.
Useful authorities: Housing Industry Association (HIA), Master Builders WA, WA Building & Energy.
Materials and finishes that last in WA
Our climate and cooking styles matter. Perth kitchens see high sun exposure and frequent entertaining—so choose finishes that resist heat, UV and stains.
Cabinet doors and panels
- Melamine: cost-effective, durable, huge colour range.
- 2-pack polyurethane: smooth, paint-like finish ideal for a Shaker profile; repairable and timeless.
- Timber veneer: premium warmth; seal against moisture and UV.
Benchtops (2025 WA note)
Traditional engineered stone containing respirable crystalline silica is subject to a nationwide prohibition. For new projects, we recommend porcelain/sintered stone slabs, natural stone (selected granites or quartzites), stainless steel or high-pressure laminate. We specify compliant, safe alternatives and work with licensed fabricators.
| Criteria | Engineered-style (Porcelain/Sintered) | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Indicative supplied & installed cost | $$$–$$$$ | $–$$ |
| Heat & UV resistance | Excellent; suitable for Aussie sun and hot cookware (use trivets) | Moderate; avoid direct heat and prolonged UV |
| Stain & scratch resistance | High stain resistance; good scratch resistance | Good stain resistance; more prone to scratching |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous, simple clean | Low; avoid harsh abrasives |
| Look/format | Stone, concrete, marble looks; large slabs; mitred edges | Huge colour range; post-formed edges |
Note: For existing homes with legacy engineered stone, follow WA safety guidance for any modification. New installs should use compliant alternatives.
Splashbacks
- Tiled: durable; grout selection matters for cleaning.
- Glass: sleek, reflective, easy to wipe.
- Window splashback: brings light; coordinate with shading in strong WA sun.
- Porcelain slab: seamless look to match benchtops.
Butler’s pantry stores food and small appliances behind doors. A scullery is a mini-kitchen with bench, sink and power to prep out of sight.
Layouts and styles
Layouts
- Galley kitchen: efficient for apartments; maximise vertical storage.
- L-shaped: good for open-plan; add an island bench for flow.
- U-shaped: excellent prep space; ensure 1,000–1,200 mm aisles.
- Island: great for entertaining; integrate seating and power.
Styles Australians love
- Shaker/Hamptons: 2-pack doors, classic profiles, engineered-style porcelain tops, satin brass or matte black hardware.
- Contemporary: handleless doors, integrated fridge/dishwasher, porcelain or stainless benchtops, concrete-look finishes.
- Coastal Perth: melamine in warm whites, timber accents, easy-clean tiles, LED strip lighting.
- Industrial: dark cabinetry, concrete-look surfaces, open shelving, feature rangehood.
See our kitchen remodel images and best kitchen renovations gallery for inspiration—bring screenshots or kitchen remodel photos to your consult so we can refine your vision.
Case studies (Perth)
Cottesloe coastal remodel: Replaced dated vinyl wrap with 2-pack Shaker doors, porcelain benchtops with waterfall ends, and a window splashback. Added a 900 mm induction cooktop and undermount sink. Result: 45% more storage and brighter prep zones.
Joondalup apartment refit: Compact galley kitchen update with melamine cabinetry, laminate benchtops, and LED task lighting. Retained services for speed and budget. Result: a clean, modern kitchen update completed in 12 days on site.
What does a kitchen renovation cost in Perth?
Ballpark figures (cabinetry, benchtops, splashback, basic trades; appliances are extra):
- Cosmetic kitchen makeover ideas / refit: $8,000–$20,000
- Mid-range kitchen home improvement: $25,000–$45,000
- Premium best kitchen remodel / full kitchen renovation: $50,000–$100,000+
Allow for licensed trades, potential asbestos management in older homes, and contingency (10–15%). For kitchen home remodeling with structural changes, additional costs apply and council/building approvals may be required.
Focus on a kitchen cabinet remodel with new doors and panels, smart storage, updated splashback and lighting, and keep appliances/services in place.
Practical pre-renovation checklist
- □ Measure and lock in appliance sizes (e.g., 600/900 mm ovens, fridge cavity height).
- □ Decide layout: galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, island, or add a scullery.
- □ Confirm ventilation: externally ducted rangehood where possible.
- □ Power and lighting plan: task, ambient, and strip lighting; enough GPOs.
- □ Plumbing: sink, tap, fridge water line, dishwasher position.
- □ Choose finishes: cabinet doors, benchtops (compliant materials), splashback.
- □ Understand lead times for slabs, appliances and custom cabinetry.
- □ Set budget tiers for a kitchen upgrade vs full kitchen remodel.
- □ Plan a temporary kitchen setup for install week(s).
- □ Book licensed trades and confirm AS/NZS compliance.
Why Joyce Kitchens
- Custom, WA-made cabinetry for a perfect fit.
- Experienced designers who optimise storage and workflow.
- Trusted project coordination, from design to install.
- Solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and wardrobes to unify your home.
Whether it’s a fast kitchen refit, a high-impact kitchen makeover, or a full kitchen remodel, we’ll deliver a result that’s beautiful, durable and compliant.
FAQ
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Perth?
After design sign-off, WA-made cabinetry typically takes 3–6 weeks to manufacture. On-site works range from 1–3 weeks for a refit to 3–6+ weeks for a full kitchen remodel, depending on trades, benchtop choice and any structural changes.
How much does a full kitchen remodel cost in WA?
As a guide, expect $50,000–$100,000+ for a premium full kitchen renovation with custom cabinetry, porcelain/sintered benchtops, quality appliances and coordinated trades. Mid-range projects often land between $25,000–$45,000.
Do I need council approval to redo a kitchen?
Most like-for-like kitchen refits don’t require council approval. If you’re altering structure, windows/doors, or moving wet areas/services substantially, consult your local council or a building surveyor. All electrical and plumbing must be done by licensed trades.
Which benchtop is best for Australian homes?
For new projects, porcelain/sintered stone is a top choice—heat, stain and UV resistant. Quality laminates are excellent value. Natural stone can be beautiful; select slabs suited to your cooking style and sealing preferences.
Can you update cabinets without a full refit?
Yes. A kitchen cabinet remodel with new doors, panels, benchtops, handles and lighting can transform your space quickly and cost-effectively, especially if the layout works and carcasses are sound.
Considering extra storage in your redesign, see layouts and costs for floor to ceiling kitchen cabinets.
Lock in a palette that suits WA light and lifestyle—explore ideas in our kitchen colour schemes australia guide.
