A kitchen renovation is often a highly rewarding renovation of a home, but requires considerable planning and preparation. This is especially true if working with an older kitchen. Any tradesman-builder with over 20 years experience in construction in Australia, who has seen all manner of upgrades. And also dreadful mistakes made before even starting to renovate kitchens will tell you correct steps.
Here’s how to start right.
Inspect, Measure, and Plan the Right Way
What to Check:
- Uneven flooring or even damaged subfloors
- Outdated plumbing construction and wiring
- Wall integrity and layout limitations
Builder’s Tip:
Use a laser level to check. Create a digital or hand-drawn floor plan before demolition. Photograph the existing setup for reference. Homeowners in Sydney once paid an extra $4,000 to adjust misfit custom cabinets because they didn’t account for curved walls.
Mistake to Avoid:
Failing to check wall straightness or room square can result in misaligned cabinetry and benchtops. Take time to double-check all measurements.
Disconnect All Services Safely
Call the Pros:
- Licensed electrician for power isolation
- Plumber for water and gas disconnection
- Gas fitter to cap off any existing lines
Real-Life Example:
A Canberra couple caused $20,000 in fire damage when they removed an old stove themselves, unaware the gas line was still live.
Recommendation:
Read this guide from ABC News on electrical safety during renovations to understand why professionals should handle disconnections in any old home.
Structural Work: Open Plans & Flooring Tips
When Walls Come Down:
- Identify load-bearing walls before demolition process
- Consult a structural engineer to install appropriate support beams
- Plan ventilation for open-plan kitchens to prevent overheating
Flooring Tip:
Install your floor (timber, tile, etc.) before cabinets for a cleaner finish — but ensure the subfloor is perfectly level first. Remove all vinyl or linoleum and check for rot or cracks.
Mistake to Avoid:
Skipping floor leveling — especially in older homes — can make your new island bench tilt or cause cabinetry gaps.
Choosing a New Kitchen Design That Works
Popular Styles in Australia:
- Hamptons-style kitchens. They are with marble benchtops & shaker cabinets.
- Minimalist kitchens with handle-less cabinetry and matte finishes
- Coastal kitchens featuring light colours and timber textures
Design Pitfalls:
- Matte black fixtures look great but show every fingerprint
- Cheap laminate benchtops may chip and swell over time
- Poor layout leads to disrupted workflow in cooking and cleaning zones
Pro Tip:
- Stick to the kitchen work triangle rule — the distance between sink, fridge, and stove should be minimal and unobstructed.
- Explore more in The Australian’s 2025 Kitchen Design Trends to find a layout that matches modern family needs.
Final Checklist Before Starting Your Renovation:
- Structural inspection complete
- Utilities safely disconnected
- Asbestos assessment (if pre-1990s home)
- Accurate measurements and layout drawn
- Flooring level and clear
- Trusted trades booked in advance
