Before the build
Step 1 — Brief
We talk about how you cook and entertain: how many people you host, whether there are two cooks, what appliances you want, what is missing from your current kitchen and your budget.
Step 2 — Measure and site check
The room is measured, and we look at walls, plumbing, gas, the switchboard, flooring and access to the alfresco.
Step 3 — Concept design
Layout options showing the island, pantry or scullery, and work zones.
Step 4 — Detailed design and selections
Cabinetry elevations, door finishes, handles, benchtops, splashback, sink, tapware, appliances and lighting chosen and confirmed.
Step 5 — Written quote and contract
An itemised quote, then a written contract. The maximum deposit in NSW is 10 per cent, and for work over $20,000 home building compensation cover must be in place before the deposit is requested.
Step 6 — Manufacture
Cabinetry is built while your existing kitchen keeps working. Appliances are ordered for delivery before installation.
On site
Step 7 — Demolition
Old kitchen removed and services made safe. In pre-1990 homes, suspect materials are tested for asbestos first.
Step 8 — Structure and services
Any wall removal, then plumbing, gas, electrical and lighting in the new positions. Walls patched and flooring repaired.
Step 9 — Cabinetry installation
Cabinets installed, levelled and fixed. Benchtops are templated.
Step 10 — Benchtops and splashback
Benchtops fabricated and installed, then the splashback.
Step 11 — Fit-off
Sink, tapware, cooktop, ovens, rangehood, dishwasher and fridge connected and tested.
Step 12 — Finish and handover
Painting, sealing, cleaning and a walk-through of how everything works.
Typical on-site timeline
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Demolition and services rough-in | 3–6 days |
| Wall and floor repairs | 2–5 days |
| Cabinetry installation | 2–4 days |
| Benchtop template to installation | 1–3 weeks |
| Splashback, fit-off and finishing | 3–6 days |
Living through it
Plan a temporary kitchen and use the barbecue. Keep children and pets clear of the work area and expect dust on demolition days.
See the cost guide and FAQ.
Call 02 4404 0243 or share your kitchen plans.
Questions people ask before they commit
How long does a kitchen renovation take from start to finish?
From first consultation to a finished kitchen, allow around two to four months, much of it for design, selections and cabinetry manufacture. The household is usually without a working kitchen for three to five weeks.
Why is there a wait between cabinets and benchtops?
Stone and porcelain benchtops are templated once cabinetry is installed and level, so they fit precisely. Fabrication then takes time, and that gap is commonly one to two weeks or more.
How do we cope without a kitchen?
Set up a temporary kitchen in the laundry, dining room or alfresco: fridge, microwave, air fryer, kettle and a portable induction plate. The outdoor barbecue gets a lot of use.
What delays a kitchen project?
Late appliance decisions, changes after cabinetry has been ordered, unexpected wiring or asbestos behind walls, and benchtop fabrication backlogs.