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🍳 Checklist 9 min read

Kitchen Renovation Checklist: How to Plan Your Australian Kitchen Reno

The kitchen is the heart of the home — and a well-planned renovation adds significant value. Here's the complete checklist to plan, budget, and execute your kitchen renovation without costly mistakes.

How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost?

A basic kitchen renovation costs from $15,000. Mid-range runs $25,000–$50,000. Premium custom kitchens can exceed $80,000. Cabinetry is typically 40–50% of the total cost.

Step 1: Set Your Budget

  • 1 Allocate ~50% to cabinetry
  • 2 Set aside 15% contingency
  • 3 Decide early: flat-pack, semi-custom, or custom?
  • 4 Factor in appliances separately ($3,000–$15,000)

Step 2: Design Your Layout

The kitchen work triangle (sink, fridge, cooktop) determines efficiency. Measure carefully and draw your layout — many cabinet suppliers offer free design consultations.

Pro tip: If moving your sink more than 600mm, budget for additional plumbing costs.

Step 3: Select Materials

  • 1 Cabinetry: flat-pack or custom-made
  • 2 Benchtop: laminate, engineered stone, or natural stone
  • 3 Splashback: tile, glass, or stone
  • 4 Appliances: choose before cabinet install so openings are correct

Step 4: Trade Sequence

  • 1 Demolition
  • 2 Plumber rough-in
  • 3 Electrician rough-in
  • 4 Cabinet installation
  • 5 Stonemason templates and installs benchtop (1-2 weeks)
  • 6 Tiler for splashback
  • 7 Plumber and electrician fit-off

⚠️ Watch out: Never have your tiler start before the benchtop template is done.

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