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How to Renovate a Kitchen: The Checklist and Step-By-Step Process

Mount Annan Family Kitchen Design in Sydney

A kitchen renovation is a perfect opportunity to customise the heart of your home to suit your style, your space and your lifestyle. The transformation will not only enhance your day-to-day life but also increase the value of your home. Whether you are about to undertake a full kitchen transformation or a reface, the key to a successful kitchen renovation is planning.

A well-designed kitchen and proper planning of the renovation can help avoid costly mistakes, bring new life to your home, increase your property value and improve function and flow; to create a space your family will love and enjoy for many years 

At Vitality Kitchens & Joinery, we have helped countless homeowners over the years transform their kitchen into dream spaces.

In this step-by-step kitchen renovation guide, we will walk you through the process of how to renovate a kitchen by providing valuable insights and practical advice, from setting a budget to choosing the right materials.

Step 1: Setting Your Budget

One of the first kitchen renovation steps is to set a realistic budget on how much you can afford, and stick to it! 

When planning a kitchen renovation, we would need to know and understand your budget to determine how we can meet your brief. As an estimate, the cost of a minor kitchen reface could be approximately $10,000 or a full-scale renovation could cost upwards of $20,000 depending on materials, finishes and layout changes.

A kitchen renovation checklist can help you estimate costs for different aspects of the project and keep you on track. That way you can understand the breakdown of the costs, and prioritise elements based on your budget and needs, to make smarter decisions along the way.

Where to Save & Splurge:

When renovating your kitchen, you want to allocate funds for maximum impact and durability.  Generally, we recommend splurging on benchtops, reliable appliances and durable hardware and fixtures.

Kitchen benchtops are the focal point of your kitchen and are used daily. Investing in high-quality materials such as stone over laminate will enhance durability, aesthetics and resale value. 

Appliances by reliable brands and high energy efficient models, will not only improve functionality, and lower your electricity bills but also add value to your home.

Plumbing fixtures such as durable and stylish taps, sinks and hardware can elevate the overall look and feel of your kitchen. We always use hardware with lifetime warranties to increase the longevity of your kitchen.

Areas to Save

There are many different places to save on a kitchen renovation such as:

  • Keeping the same layout: If you have a smaller budget, it’s best to keep your sink and appliances close to the original layout to save you money on electrical and plumbing by moving services, unless the layout is the reason for your kitchen renovation.  
  • Materials: For cost-effective options, consider affordable door profiles such as modern flat panel doors instead of shaker or fluted designs. Another way to save is to choose laminate over polyurethane-painted doors.
  • Splashbacks: Matching stone splashbacks do look divine and can enhance your kitchen design but if you do not have leftovers from stone benchtops splashbacks, there are other cost-effective options like tiles which can offer a stylish appearance without breaking the bank. 
  • Hardware: Cabinet handles are an affordable way to add a finishing touch and complement your design aesthetics. If you are after a handless design but it’s not in the budget, consider slimline lip pull handles routed into the top of the drawers for a sleek and unobtrusive alternative. 
modern kitchen design penrith

Step 2: Designing Your Dream Kitchen

Designing your dream kitchen is the exciting part of the kitchen renovation process, but before you start swimming a hammer, there are some things you need to think about:

  • Lifestyle and Needs: Do you entertain? Do you need ample bench space to make homemade pizzas and pastries? Do you live away from town and need more pantry space to store items between trips to the grocery store or do you have more than one cook in the kitchen at a time?
  • Style Preferences: Do you prefer modern minimalist kitchen or traditional warm and inviting. Think about the overall feel you want to achieve for your home to ensure cohesion throughout.
  • Kitchen Layout: Will you be keeping the same layout, or will you be changing? Think about your space and how you use your kitchen to choose a layout that best suits the area and your family’s needs. The most popular layouts include L-shape, galley, and island each have their own advantages. 
    • L-shape kitchens offer efficient workflow, while
    • Galley kitchens maximise narrow areas and; 
    • kitchens with islands are perfect for entertaining as they provide additional bench space and seating. 
  • Storage Solutions: There are plenty of creative ways to maximise storage such as pull-out pantries, custom cabinetry to suit the space, carousels or pull out corner solutions or choosing drawers over cupboards also maximises space. 
warawee kitchen oven

Choosing the right materials  

Choosing the right materials is essential for creating a space that is functional, visually appealing and within budget. Here is a list of different types of materials and their benefits to factor into your kitchen renovation: 

Kitchen Cabinets

  • Laminate: Affordable and durable.
  • Polyurethane: Durable and moisture-resistant.
  • Veneer: Adds a natural look with a veneer layer.
  • Solid timber: High-quality and long-lasting.
  • Plywood: Cost-effective and strong.
  • Glass: Modern and sleek.
  • Stainless steel: Durable and easy to clean.
  • Eco-friendly: Consider sustainable options like bamboo or recycled materials.
  • Thermolaminate: Budget-friendly and low maintenance.
  • Acrylic: High-gloss finish and easy to clean. 

Kitchen Benchtops

  • Engineered stone: Durable, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant.
  • Porcelain: Durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
  • Granite: Natural stone with a luxurious look.
  • Marble: Elegant but requires more maintenance.
  • Timber: Warm and natural look but requires regular sealing.
  • Stainless steel: Durable, hygienic, and modern.
  • Laminate: Affordable and available in various styles.
  • Concrete: Durable, Industrial look and modern.

Kitchen Splashbacks

  • Stone: Adds a natural and luxurious touch.
  • Tiles: Versatile and available in various styles and colours.
  • Glass: Sleek and modern.
  • Pressed tin: Adds a vintage or industrial look.
  • Acrylic: Durable and easy to clean.
talostone super white 9300 stone benchtop and splashback

Colours and Style

Colours

When choosing colours, consider your personal style and the overall feel you want to create in the space. Popular colour trends include:

  • Neutral tones: White, grey, and beige can create a clean and timeless look.
  • Bold colours: Bright colours can add personality and energy to your kitchen.
  • Natural materials: Wooden accents can bring warmth and a touch of nature.
  • Metallic finishes: Brass, gold, and copper can add a touch of luxury.

Popular Kitchen Styles

Here are some popular kitchen styles to consider:

  • Hamptons: This style is characterised by light, airy colours, natural materials, and classic design elements.
  • Contemporary: Contemporary kitchens are sleek and modern, with clean lines and minimalist design.
  • Traditional: Traditional kitchens are warm and inviting, with classic features like crown moulding, ornate cabinetry, and dark wood tones.
  • Japandi: This style combines elements of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian hygge, creating a serene and functional space. It features clean lines, natural materials, and a focus on simplicity and functionality.

Once you have decided on what materials and finishes you will be using, it’s best to create a mood board of all the samples, so that you can see all the elements together.

Remember, while trends come and go, choosing the right colours and style for your kitchen is the one that reflects your personal taste and complements your home’s overall design.

small kitchen renovation penrith

Step 3: Choosing the Right Appliances & Fixtures

Appliances

When choosing appliances, you should think about your budget, reliability of the appliance and size and features of the appliance. 

Consider energy-efficiency appliances, not only do they help reduce your environmental impact, but they can also significantly save you money in the long run on energy bills, so be sure to check the energy star rating.

Additionally you also need to consider the design of your kitchen and the size of your appliances. For example, if you have a small kitchen you would opt for compact or integrated appliances that fit in your space and overall style of your home, you wouldn’t want to choose a large French door fridge. 

Lighting and Plumbing Fixtures

Good lighting is the key to a functional kitchen. Consider using a combination of task lighting for specific tasks like cooking; ambient lighting for general lighting of the entire space and accent lighting is perfect to highlight features such as display plates or glassware by using LED strip lighting inside cabinetry to or artwork on the wall by using wall sconces. 

Taps and sinks although they have a practical purpose in the kitchen, they also contribute to the overall design of the kitchen. With many different options available, you will be bound to find one that suits your overall style. When choosing, you should consider durability and functionality. For example, think about how you use your kitchen. Do you use two sinks for washing and rinsing? Then a double basin would suit or do you put everything in the dishwasher and only need a small sink or would you prefer a deep basin sink for washing large pots and pans?

It’s all personal preference but by carefully planning the layout, and lighting and selecting fixtures and appliances that fit the space and your design, you can create a kitchen that is both efficient and beautiful. 

Step 4: Working with Kitchen Renovation Professionals

When updating your kitchen space, it’s essential to collaborate with professionals to guarantee a stress-free process. Every trade professional, from builders and kitchen designers to plumbers and electricians, all contribute their specialised skills to the project. Not all tradespeople and professionals follow the same practices, so it’s essential to do your research

When you’re looking to hire tradespeople for a project, it’s best to conduct research and choose individuals with the qualifications, a wealth of experience and a solid reputation, in their field. Here are some helpful pointers to guide you; 

  • Ask friends and family members who they have used and recommend. 
  • Look up Google reviews and go through them, to understand how their interactions were.
  • If comparing quotes make sure you are comparing apples with apples before making a decision. Some quotes often leave parts of the proposed works off to reduce prices and then you end up paying for variations in the end, meaning they may not have been the better price. They may also offer inferior materials or hardware which are cheaper but do not guarantee longevity. 
  • Check their credentials to make sure that they have the licensing and insurance coverage. I’d start here by checking if they hold a Kitchen & Bathroom Renovators Licence.  
  • Clearly outline your expectations, timeline, and budget, so everything is transparent. 
  • Check on the guarantees/warranties offered for both the materials and the craftsmanship. 

When to DIY vs. Hire a Pro

During a kitchen renovation, there are certain tasks you can handle yourself, but it’s important to recognise your limitations and know when to call in a professional. Homeowners with the right skills and tools can take on projects like painting walls, installing hardware, or tiling splashbacks. 

However, for tasks like plumbing and electrical work, it’s crucial to hire a professional. By law, these jobs require experienced and licensed tradespeople to ensure both safety and high-quality results. 

As cabinet makers and kitchen designers ourselves, we truly value the importance of quality craftsmanship. We pay attention to the minute details when it comes to crafting and installing cabinetry.  We only use high quality materials such as hardware and ensure all our cabinetry is constructed properly with solid backs and bottoms. Even if your walls are uneven, that’s no problem for us. Bear in mind that not all cabinet makers follow this essential practice, which can compromise the durability and longevity of your kitchen.

At Vitality Kitchens & Joinery we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our experienced team can help you design and create a kitchen that not only looks beautiful but also functions efficiently. We offer a wide range of customisation options, from materials and finishes to hardware and layout.

By working closely with our team, you can ensure that your kitchen renovation is a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Turramurra Kitchen Revamp

Step 5: Executing the Renovation

Once your kitchen has been drawn and approved now the designs start to come to life it all comes to life.

The renovation starts in our factory, our experienced team manufactures and assembles all the cabinetry ready for installation. At the same time the demolition phase starts in your home. We do try to keep the mess to a minimum, but the demolition phase can be dusty and noisy especially if walls need to be removed or electrical or plumbing need to be reworked/upgraded. 

The time you will have no kitchen depends on the extent of the renovation. We usually say to allow approximately two weeks without a proper kitchen if you are waiting for stone benchtops to be installed. This may take longer depending on whether the walls are being removed or if the layout changes. 

For people living at home while the works are being completed, to prepare for your kitchen renovation, we suggest once your kitchen is booked in for cabinet installation, to organise a makeshift kitchen in another room, fire up the BBQ for dinners or stock up on premade dinners to make living at home through a kitchen renovation, easier. 

Step 6: Final Touches & Design Finishes

Now that your kitchen renovation is complete, it’s time to finish off the room with splashbacks, new vinyl flooring or floating flooring and maybe a pendant light as well as do the final paint touch-ups around the bulkheads. 

Once the renovation is complete, it’s time to add your personal touch to the space. Whether it’s incorporating artwork, fine china, or colourful small appliances like a toaster and kettle, these finishing touches reflect your unique style and make the space truly feel like home.

Handles vs No Handles Kitchen Design

Tips for Budget-Friendly Kitchen Renovations

Here are some practical tips for a kitchen renovation on a budget and still creating a beautiful and functional kitchen, without breaking the bank:

  1. Choose more cost-effective materials and finishes for your kitchen design, such as opting for laminate instead of polyurethane for your cabinetry or choosing tiles instead of stone for your kitchen splashback.  
  2. If you are handy, you could also paint the walls, tile the splashbacks or install handles yourself. 
  3. Make sure to give importance to areas and allocate your budget towards elements that greatly influence the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.   
  4. If your budget is limited for a renovation project and you’re looking to save costs you could also give your space a facelift by replacing all doors and end panels. 
  5. Make sure to plan in advance as it can help you avoid errors and make the renovation process go smoothly.  
  6. Achieving a renovation involves striking the perfect balance, between style, functionality and charm.  
  7. To minimise expenses it’s best to maintain the setup when relocating services, like plumbing and electrical work.   

To maximise the budget and still achieve a beautiful functional kitchen, here are some practical tips to consider, without breaking the bank:

    1. Choose affordable materials and finishes: opt for durable but affordable materials such as laminate or textured laminate over expensive finishes like polyurethane or stone benchtops. You can also opt for tiles over stone for your splashback. 
    2. DIY painting, tiling and install hardware 
    3. Prioritise key areas. Focus the budget on the significant impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen.  
    4. Consider a partial renovation: if the budget is pretty tight, opt to have a facelift makeover and replace all doors and end panels.
    5. Plan ahead. Proper planning will prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth renovation process. 
    6. A successful renovation is about finding that right balance of style, function and adorability. 
    7. Keeping the same layout to reduce labour costs associated with moving services such as plumbing and electrical. 

Renovating your kitchen can be exciting and daunting at the same time but it’s absolutely worth it! With careful planning, patience, and a skilled team behind you, you will create a space that you and your family will cherish for many years to come. 

Contact us today to schedule an in-home consultation and start turning your dream kitchen into a reality. Vitality is proud to be a trusted kitchen renovation company in Sydney for over 20 years, servicing from the scenic Blue Mountains in Katoomba, all the way to the vibrant coastal suburb of Manly. Our services are highly recommended in charming Northern Beaches areas like Newport, and Mona Vale, and the bustling suburbs of Sydney’s east such as Mosman, Vaucluse, Bellevue Hill, and Double Bay. 

FAQS

How long does it take to renovate a kitchen?

A kitchen renovation takes approximately 6-8 weeks, but this depends on the design phase and if you know your style, finishes, and layout.  It also depends on the extent of the renovation such as removing walls, which would take longer.

Does kitchen renovation increase home value?

Generally, yes. It all depends on the execution of the renovation. You should expect to increase the value of your home by approximately 10%.

Can you claim kitchen renovation on taxes?

Yes, if it is for an investment property or business expense. For more information, please discuss with your accountant.