Designing a compact kitchen that still performs like a full-size space is absolutely achievable with a well-considered kitchenette plan. Whether you’re refreshing an apartment, adding a studio, fitting out a granny flat or upgrading a guest suite, this expert guide from Joyce Kitchens will help you make clear, confident decisions across layout, storage, materials and budget—tailored for Australian conditions and compliance.
Primary focus: kitchenette plan | Also covers: kitchenette design ideas, kitchenette designs, kitchen renovations Perth, custom cabinetry WA
Table of Contents
- Core kitchenette planning insights
- Our renovation and design process
- Materials and finishes that work in WA
- Layouts, styles and kitchenette design ideas
- Costs and value in Perth/WA
- Practical kitchenette planning checklist
- FAQ
Core kitchenette planning insights
Small spaces demand clarity. A strong kitchenette plan prioritises how you’ll use the space day-to-day, and then layers in storage, appliances and finishes that suit WA homes and climate. Here are the essentials:
- Start with the “work triangle” or “work zones”. Even in a single-wall or galley kitchenette, keep prep, cook and clean zones within easy reach. Aim for at least 900 mm of uninterrupted prep space between sink and cooktop where possible.
- Right-size appliances. Consider 300 mm or 2-burner domino induction cooktops, 450 mm dishwashers, 60 cm combination microwave ovens, and under-bench bar fridges for compact functionality.
- Layer storage smartly. Use soft-close drawers, slim pull-out pantries (150–300 mm), corner carousels, and overhead cabinets up to ceiling height for maximum capacity. Brands such as Blum and Häfele provide high-reliability hardware for Australian homes.
- Reflective surfaces brighten small spaces. Choose satin or semi-gloss doors, glass or porcelain splashbacks, and LED strip task lighting to expand the feel of the room.
- Design for ventilation and safety. Follow Australian standards for cooktop clearances and ventilation. Induction reduces heat output and is a safe choice for tight layouts.
Definition: Kitchenette
A compact kitchen—often one run or a small galley—typically including a sink, bench space, storage, and select appliances (cooktop, microwave, bar fridge). It may serve a studio, secondary dwelling, office or guest area.
Our renovation and design process
Joyce Kitchens delivers end-to-end kitchen renovations Perth homeowners trust, from concept to completion. Here’s how we make your kitchenette plan simple and stress-free:
1) Brief and measure
- On-site measure and assessment of services (power, water, waste, ventilation).
- Discuss lifestyle, storage needs, appliance preferences and style (e.g., shaker kitchen, coastal, contemporary).
2) Concept design and budget alignment
- Scaled plans, elevations and 3D visuals for single-wall, L-shape or galley kitchenette designs.
- Clear pricing for custom cabinetry WA-made, benchtops, splashback and trades.
3) Compliance and approvals
- We liaise with licensed trades. Where structural changes or new plumbing/drainage are involved, permits may be required. Always check local regulations or speak with your builder.
- For guidance, see Australian authorities such as HIA and Master Builders WA.
4) Manufacture and installation
- Precision-manufactured cabinetry, soft-close drawers and durable finishes suited to WA climate.
- Coordinated installation with qualified electricians and plumbers for peace of mind and warranty integrity.
Helpful resources:
Housing Industry Association (HIA) |
Master Builders WA |
Australian Building Codes Board (NCC)
Materials and finishes that work in WA
Choosing the right materials for a kitchenette is about durability, cleaning ease, heat resistance and value. In WA, sun exposure, coastal humidity and everyday wear all factor in.
Benchtops (read this first)
- Porcelain/sintered stone (e.g., Dekton, porcelain slab) offers high heat and scratch resistance, low maintenance, and contemporary looks—including ultra-thin profiles for sleek kitchenette designs.
- Laminate is budget-friendly and light-on-structure—great for rentals and secondary dwellings—now available in realistic stone/timber patterns.
- Natural stone (granite, marble) delivers timeless appeal; requires sealing and mindful care.
- Solid surface (e.g., acrylic-based) allows seamless joins and integrated sinks; ideal for clean, minimal lines in compact layouts.
- Timber (e.g., Tasmanian oak) adds warmth; requires regular sealing and care around water and heat.
Important update on engineered stone
Australia has introduced a ban on the manufacture, supply and installation of new engineered stone due to silica-related safety concerns. If you’re replacing or planning new works, speak to us about compliant alternatives such as porcelain/sintered stone, laminate, solid surface and natural stone. We’ll guide you through current WA requirements and documentation.
Cabinetry and hardware
- Moisture-resistant board for carcasses, and durable 2-pack, laminate or thermo-laminate doors for longevity.
- Hardware: soft-close drawers, pull-outs and corner solutions by Blum/Häfele maximise capacity in small footprints.
- Door styles: Shaker kitchen fronts for classic Hamptons/coastal, or flat panel/finger-pull for a modern, minimalist kitchenette plan.
Splashbacks
- Porcelain or large-format tiles minimise grout lines and are highly durable.
- Toughened glass reflects light; easy to clean.
- Acrylic panels offer value but require heat shields next to cooktops; check manufacturer clearances.
Lighting
- LED strip under-cabinet task lighting is essential in compact kitchens; add warm or neutral white depending on interior palette.
- Sensor lighting in pantries and corner units elevates everyday use.
Appliances and local sizing
- Cooktops: 30 cm domino or 60 cm induction suit most kitchenettes; follow clearance requirements and electrical load planning.
- Ventilation: Recirculating hoods with carbon filters are acceptable where external ducting is not possible, but ducted solutions perform best.
- Dishwashers: 450 mm models or single-drawer dishwashers save space.
- Sinks/tapware: Compact 1-bowl sinks with drainers; choose WELS-rated tapware for water efficiency.
Definition: Sintered stone (porcelain)
A high-density surface made by sintering minerals at very high temperature and pressure. It’s non-porous, highly heat and UV resistant—ideal for Australian kitchens and alfresco areas.
Comparison: Engineered Stone vs Laminate (for legacy understanding and renovations)
Note: New engineered stone installations are restricted under Australian regulations. The table below helps homeowners understand legacy materials and practical alternatives during replacement or repair.
| Feature | Engineered Stone (legacy) | Laminate (current, widely available) |
|---|---|---|
| Heat resistance | Good, but avoid direct hot pots | Moderate; use trivets and heat mats |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous | Very low; simple cleaning |
| Cost | Historically mid–high | Low–mid (budget friendly) |
| Aesthetics | Stone-like patterns, consistent | Huge range; stone/timber looks |
| Current availability | Restricted/ban on new installs in AU | Widely available nationwide |
Layouts, styles and kitchenette design ideas
Small doesn’t mean compromise. When discussing layout options for small kitchenettes, explore our kitchen designs Perth for local examples and inspiration. These kitchenette designs balance function and style—ideal for apartments, studios and secondary dwellings:
Popular layouts
- Single-wall (straight) – Best for ultra-compact spaces. Use full-height storage at one end, and a counter-depth fridge to keep the run streamlined.
- Galley – Parallel benches for excellent workflow; keep at least 900 mm between runs for access. Great opportunity for a slim island or movable cart.
- L-shape – Wraps a corner to create extra prep space; add open shelves on short returns to keep it airy.
Style directions
- Modern minimalist: Flat-panel doors, finger-pull rails, porcelain benchtop with waterfall edge, integrated bar fridge, and crisp LED task lighting.
- Coastal/Hamptons shaker: Shaker kitchen doors in soft white or pastel, brushed nickel handles, tiled splashback, and Tasmanian oak floating shelves.
- Industrial: Matte black doors, concrete-look benchtop, open steel shelving and textured splashback tiles.
Case examples (WA)
- Leederville studio kitchenette: 2.4 m single-wall, porcelain benchtop, 30 cm domino induction, 450 mm dishwasher, soft-close drawers and full-height pantry pull-out. Result: hotel-like convenience without clutter.
- Fremantle granny flat galley: 2.1 m x 2.2 m, shaker doors, solid surface benchtop with integrated sink, ducted rangehood, and ceiling-height cabinets to maximise storage. Result: classic style, easy maintenance for visiting family.
Compliance snapshot (always verify)
Typical requirements include cooktop clearances, waterproofing in wet areas, electrical circuits sized for induction, and ventilation. Engage licensed trades and refer to the NCC and relevant AS/NZS standards. Your designer and builder will advise for your site.
Costs and value in Perth/WA
Indicative pricing for a well-built kitchenette in Perth varies with size, materials and appliances. These figures help frame a realistic budget:
- Entry (laminate benchtop, melamine doors, basic appliances): $8,000–$12,000
- Mid-range (porcelain/solid surface, upgraded hardware, integrated lighting): $12,000–$18,000
- Premium (porcelain/sintered stone, custom features, integrated appliances): $18,000–$25,000+
Typical allowances (guide only):
- Custom cabinetry and hardware: 45–60% of budget
- Benchtop and splashback: 20–30%
- Appliances: 10–25% (depending on selection)
- Trades (electrician, plumber, tiler, painter): 10–20%
Every project is unique. Joyce Kitchens will design to your budget, sequence the trades and provide transparent quotations—so there are no surprises.
Practical kitchenette planning checklist
- Measure wall length, ceiling height and door/window positions accurately.
- Confirm electrical load (especially for induction), GPO locations and plumbing points.
- Decide on must-have appliances: cooktop size, dishwasher width, microwave/oven combo, fridge capacity.
- Plan primary prep zone: at least 600–900 mm of clear bench near the sink.
- Maximise storage: deep drawers for pots, pull-out pantry, overheads to the ceiling.
- Select materials for WA conditions: porcelain/sintered stone, solid surface or laminate benchtops; moisture-resistant cabinetry.
- Choose lighting: under-cabinet LED strips and warm ambient lighting.
- Confirm ventilation solution and splashback clearances.
- Lock in a timeline: design, manufacture, installation, and any approvals.
- Engage licensed trades and follow NCC and AS/NZS guidance.
FAQ
What size should a kitchenette be?
A practical kitchenette can start from about 1.6–2.4 metres of linear bench with a 600 mm depth, including a single-bowl sink, compact cooktop and under-bench fridge. If space allows, aim for 2.4–3.0 metres to include a 450 mm dishwasher and at least 900 mm of clear prep space.
Do I need council approval for a kitchenette in a WA granny flat or studio?
It depends on your local council and whether the space is classified as a secondary dwelling or an ancillary structure. Cosmetic upgrades typically don’t need approval, but new plumbing, drainage or structural changes may require permits. Check with your local council or builder before you start, and ensure all electrical and plumbing work is performed by licensed trades.
How much does a kitchenette cost in Perth?
As a guide, expect $8,000–$12,000 for entry level, $12,000–$18,000 for mid-range, and $18,000–$25,000+ for premium specifications. Material choices (e.g., porcelain vs laminate), appliance selection and site access all influence the final price.
What appliances are best for a compact kitchenette plan?
Space-savvy options include a 30 cm domino or 60 cm induction cooktop, 450 mm dishwasher, combination microwave oven, and an under-bench fridge or integrated bar fridge. Recirculating rangehoods are common where ducting is not possible, but ducted systems perform better if you can accommodate them.
Which benchtop materials suit a small kitchenette?
Porcelain/sintered stone and solid surface are excellent for durability and easy care; laminate is a strong value option with many contemporary finishes. Due to national restrictions on engineered stone, discuss compliant alternatives with your designer for new installations in Australia.
