Inner West Kitchen Renovations

No, you don’t need an architect. You can even design it yourself using the IKEA app! However, an architect can help you see how the kitchen fits into the bigger picture of your home. If you have an open-plan layout, for example, an architect will ensure the kitchen flows with the rest of the space. They can also bring experience in creating functional, beautiful spaces, and help you make the kitchen work for your specific needs, whether it’s about functionality or adding value to your home.

Usually, no. Permits aren’t required unless you're moving the kitchen to a different area or knocking down walls—especially external ones. For standard kitchen renovations, it's typically considered exempt from needing a DA (development application).

This one’s tricky because it depends on so many factors. Some people spend $50,000 and get a great kitchen with appliances included. Others spend $100,000 just on high-end appliances! A typical budget of $50,000 to $100,000 can get you a fantastic kitchen, but it all comes down to finishes, the number of drawers, and your choice of benchtops. If you're on a specific budget, we can help you understand what’s possible and work backwards from there.

It depends on how prepared we are. If we can measure the kitchen before starting, it could take as little as two to three weeks from demolition to completion. Sometimes we can’t measure early on due to adjustments or other work happening, but when everything is ready to go, the process can be surprisingly quick.

Yes, if you can live without a kitchen for a while! We work with you to plan the renovation around your needs so that the disruption is minimal. It’s all about coordination and communication.

Our consultation involves an architect and a builder visiting your home. We’ll answer your questions, ask a lot of our own, and help you understand how the kitchen will fit into the rest of your home. We always consider how the kitchen works with your future plans for the house, and we’ll give you two initial design sketches based on our discussions.

We focus on getting the design just right. It's a fine balance between aesthetics, making the space functional, and ensuring that the kitchen adds value to your home. We want your kitchen to look like it was always meant to be there, complementing the overall style of your house.

Absolutely. We’ve worked on plenty of small kitchens, and the goal is always to make the best use of every inch. One project in East Balmain was particularly tight, but when we finished, the homeowners’ friends asked how much we had extended the space—it just felt that much bigger without any physical expansion.

It depends on your taste and needs. Some clients love natural stone, while others go for laminates, which are much more durable now and offer fantastic flexibility in colors and textures. Ceramic is another option we recommend for its durability and low maintenance. Whatever materials you choose, we’ll make sure everything—benchtops, cabinetry, flooring—works together to create a cohesive design.

We start by carefully specifying all materials and fittings, creating a detailed budget with accurate pricing. Additionally, we maintain a contingency fund for any necessary rectifications.

It depends on your budget. We recommend premium materials for waterproofing, framing, tiles, and fittings. However, quality finishes are crucial; it’s better to use simpler, cost-effective materials that are well-finished by skilled tradespeople than to use expensive stone that’s poorly done.

We put a lot of effort into planning and communication. While things don’t always go perfectly in renovations, we focus on keeping our clients informed and updated on progress. If issues arise, you’ll know about them and understand how they impact the timeline.

Yes, but we recommend waiting until the kitchen design is finalised. That way, the appliances can be integrated seamlessly, giving your kitchen a polished, cohesive look. We can supply and install appliances, or work with the ones you’ve selected.

We put a lot of detail into the drawings and get accurate quotes up front. We also plan for contingencies so that if unexpected costs come up, we’re prepared. Staying within budget is always a priority for us.

Definitely. We work on heritage homes regularly, and we’re familiar with the specific considerations that come with heritage conservation areas. We’ll make sure your new kitchen fits with the style and character of your home.

The best place to start is with a consultation. We’ll give you insights, answer your questions, provide sketches, and explain your options. If you’ve already got plans in place, feel free to email us, or book a call through our website. You can also reach us directly at 0291956949.