Imperial. Kitchens by Design — Kitchen Renovation in Geelong

A budget kitchen renovation costs $10,000–$20,000. Mid-range $20,000–$45,000. High-end custom kitchens cost $50,000–$150,000+. The biggest cost factors are cabinetry (40–50% of budget), benchtops, appliances, and labour. IKEA flat-pack kitchens reduce cabinetry costs significantly.

A standard kitchen renovation takes 3–6 weeks. This includes demolition, rough-in plumbing and electrical, cabinet installation, benchtop templating and installation (stone takes 7–10 days to fabricate), tiling, and appliance connection. Custom cabinetry adds 4–8 weeks to lead times.

Engineered stone (Caesarstone, Silestone) is the most popular choice — heat and scratch resistant, easy to clean, and available in hundreds of designs. Laminate is budget-friendly. Natural stone (marble, granite) is beautiful but requires sealing and careful maintenance. Timber is warm but high-maintenance.

Cosmetic renovations (new cabinets in the same location, new benchtops, appliances) generally don't require a permit. Moving gas, plumbing, or electrical requires licensed contractors. Removing walls or changing the footprint typically requires a building permit. Check with your local council.

For complex or open-plan kitchens, an independent kitchen designer ($1,500–$5,000) can optimise workflow, storage, and lighting in ways showroom staff may not. For straightforward replacements of existing kitchens, showroom design services (often free) are generally sufficient.