Kitchen Renovations Victoria

Why renovate your kitchen in Victoria?

Few rooms influence daily life, energy bills and property value as much as the kitchen. In competitive Victorian real-estate markets, a considered upgrade can lift the final sale price by tens of thousands of dollars, while immediately giving your household better ergonomics, storage and social flow. Because most kitchens in VIC were built 15–25 years ago, they often suffer from poor lighting, dated cabinetry and inefficient appliances—issues a modern renovation resolves in one go.

Setting a realistic budget

Cost brackets you can expect

• Cosmetic refresh – $10,000–$25,000: new benchtops, tapware, splashback and repainting existing cabinets.
• Mid-range remodel – $25,000–$45,000: custom cabinetry, engineered-stone benchtops, upgraded electrical and plumbing.
• Premium transformation – $45,000–$100,000+: structural changes, high-end appliances, integrated joinery, feature lighting and floor upgrades.

Factor in 10 % contingency for hidden issues such as asbestos or outdated wiring—common in pre-1990s Melbourne homes. If the project involves removing walls or relocating services, allow for engineering and permit fees.

Permits & compliance in VIC

A licenced builder or plumber must carry out any structural or drainage work. In Victoria, you will need a building permit if the renovation alters load-bearing walls, changes the home’s footprint, involves re-stumping or costs more than $10,000 in structural work. The Victorian Building Authority offers a clear checklist of when permits are mandatory; review it here before finalising plans. Compliance is non-negotiable—insurance claims can be voided by unpermitted works.

Choosing the right professional partner

Experience and fit matter just as much as price. On ArchiPro you’ll find:

• Kitchen designers who translate lifestyle needs into ergonomic layouts.
• Cabinetmakers & joiners crafting bespoke storage and feature islands.
• Builders & project managers coordinating trades, permits and timelines.

Review recent projects, confirm Victorian Building Authority registration and ask for client references. A transparent professional will provide a detailed scope, fixed-price contract and clearly defined payment stages.

Timeline: what happens when

1. Concept & quoting – 2–4 weeks. Measure, mood board, and preliminary pricing.
2. Design development – 3–6 weeks. 3D renders, material selections and engineering sign-off.
3. Permits & procurement – 2–4 weeks. Submit paperwork and order long-lead items like custom joinery or imported appliances.
4. Demolition & build – 4–8 weeks. Demolition, rough-ins, cabinetry installation, benchtops and splashbacks.
5. Final fit-off & handover – 1 week. Appliance commissioning, painting and site clean.

Engaging one team for design and build streamlines the schedule and reduces variations.

Design trends shaping Victorian kitchens

• Porcelain benchtops for durability and sleek, ultra-thin profiles.
• Curved island corners to soften traffic flow in open-plan homes.
• Mixed timber tones pairing light oak with rich walnut for depth.
• Butler’s pantries hiding small appliances to keep the main workspace clutter-free.
• Smart appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity for remote pre-heating and energy monitoring.

Next steps

Ready to begin? Browse our full Renovation directory or jump straight to specialist services: Bathroom Renovations, Home Renovations and Laundry Renovations. Shortlist your favourite Victorian professionals, share your inspiration folder and request quotes directly through ArchiPro—all free and obligation-free.