Photography: Dylan James / Styling: Karin Bochnik
It’s no secret that kitchens suffer through the rigours of daily use. But with costs easily snowballing and mistakes easy to make, kitchen renovations are often left in the ‘too hard’ basket. This doesn’t need to be the case!
Kitchen renovations can be life-changing and simply don’t need to break the bank in order to achieve this. We spoke to builder and Front Porch Properties founder Rachael Turner and John Harrison, Kaboodle Kitchen marketing manager, who shared their secrets to managing a kitchen reno for less than $10K.
From estimated costs for every fixture and finish, to the best items to save and splurge on in kitchen renovations – we’ve got everything you need to get the job done.
Meet the homeowners
Who lives here? Engaged couple, Cassie and Nick.
Location? South-east Melbourne.
Original kitchen? An original 1970s dark wood grain L-shape kitchen with minimal storage, no pantry and narrow bench space.
Timeframe? Less than four weeks.
The works: “We love to cook and entertain so when planning our kitchen renovation we prioritised plenty of prep space and a large island to entertain friends and family. We were also desperate for more storage so big drawers and a large pantry were essential so that we had a well organised and functional kitchen.”
The best materials for kitchen cabinets
What are the options? If your cabinetry is in good shape and the layout is functional, keep the carcasses and paint the doors to create a big impact for less. Alternatively, Kaboodle Kitchen has a range of doors, panels and designer-look handles, allowing you to refresh the facades completely. “DIY installation is a fantastic way to save both time and money,” adds John. Want to redo your cabinets? “Opt for open shelves instead of overhead cupboards,” suggests Rachael, who adds that open shelves cost less and look sleek in compact spaces.
Kitchen renovations: Cabinetry costs
Estimated costs start at $4000 for kitchen cabinetry.
“Choose DIY-friendly flatpack cabinetry and install as much of it yourself to significantly save compared to custom-built options”
John Harrison, Kaboodle Kitchen marketing manager
The best materials for benchtops and splashbacks
What are the options? There’s no doubt that choosing a benchtop material is an important decision. Laminate is a great way to save money. “Opting for a neutral colour or a classic woodgrain top can instantly refresh any kitchen,” advises Rachael. “You can then add personality and character through your choice of splashback.” John agrees, adding that laminate benchtops can give you “the look of stone or timber with a more durable finish for a lot less.” He recommends ceramic tiles for a show-stopping splashback, whether in a bright colour, playful pattern or classic white.
Kitchen renovations: Benchtop and splashback costs
Estimated costs range from $200–$400 per metre for laminate benchtops, while engineered stone typically starts at $600 per metre. Estimated costs for splashbacks start at $30 per square metre for ceramic tiles but can reach $250 per square metre.
“My top pick for a splashback on a budget is classic white subway tiles. They’re affordable and timeless,” says Rachael. “Another option is a
Builder’s tip for kitchen renovations on a budget
semi-exterior grade VJ panel/sheet. Finish it with washable paint to create a beautiful, tile-free look.” Check with your supplier that it’s suitable for kitchen use.
The best options for hardware and tapware
What are the options? “Updating your kitchen with new hardware and tapware is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to refresh the space,” says Rachael. “For a cohesive look, match your tapware finish with your hardware.” Many hardware and kitchen companies offer all hardware needed in a kitchen, from larger items like handles, pulls and knobs to the often forgotten hinges and runners.
Kaboodle Kitchen offers many finishes, such as matte black, matte white, stainless steel, brass, gold and nickel. “Choose the best within your budget,” suggests Rachael. As these fixtures get heavy daily use, it’s worth investing in durable, high-quality options. Another money-saving benefit of updating kitchen handles is that you can easily remove and install these yourself, avoiding additional tradesperson costs.
Kitchen renovations: Hardware and tapware costs
Estimated costs range from $100-$600 for tapware and $100-$300 for handles.
“It’s generally best to keep plumbing in its original location,” shares Rachael, who adds that moving plumbing is costly and doesn’t always provide a good return on investment. Instead, she suggests “considering the value of opening up your kitchen space” by removing just one wall.
Builder’s tip for kitchen renovations on a budget
The best options for lighting
What are the options? You can make a difference to the look of your kitchen by upating your existing pendants or adding new ones. “Basic yet stylish light fittings are available affordably at Bunnings or Beacon Lighting,” says Rachael. “Installing these above your island can completely transform the look.” Beware: rewiring is an additional cost.
Kitchen renovations: Lighting costs
Estimated lighting costs range from $100-$600 per fixture.
The best options for appliances
Buy the best appliances you can afford but limit the number to the bare essentials. “It’s worth splurging on a high-quality cooker or durable dishwasher as these are your everyday workhorses,” says Rachael. While integrated appliances look seamless, the cost is significant, and even more so if they need to be replaced. Looking for a top quality oven? We’ve compiled a list of the best ovens on the market.
Kitchen renovations: Appliance costs
Estimated costs range from $500–$8000 per appliance.
