A kitchen renovation is one of the most rewarding ways to upgrade your home, enhance daily functionality, and boost long-term property value. However, one of the most common questions homeowners ask before starting is: How long will it take?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline, understanding the key stages of a kitchen renovation can help you manage expectations, avoid unnecessary delays, and better plan your schedule. Whether you're refreshing an existing layout or going for a full transformation, knowing what to expect can make the process less overwhelming.
Pre-Renovation: Planning and Design (2–4 weeks)
Every successful kitchen renovation starts with thorough planning. During this stage, you'll define your vision, select styles, research materials, and finalise your kitchen layout.
Key steps include:
- Assessing your needs and priorities
- Meeting with a designer or renovation specialist
- Choosing materials, colours, cabinetry, and appliances
- Finalising layout and functionality
This phase may take longer if you’re still exploring design ideas or waiting on consultations. Take the time to get it right—it sets the foundation for everything that follows.
Demolition and Site Preparation (1 week)
Once your design is locked in and trades are booked, demolition begins. This involves removing the old kitchen—cabinets, benchtops, tiles, flooring, and possibly even walls—depending on the scope of your renovation.
Things to consider:
- Dust and noise are part of the process, so plan accordingly.
- Temporary kitchen arrangements may be needed during this phase.
- Structural or hidden issues (like water damage or old wiring) may be revealed and addressed before moving on.
Plumbing and Electrical Rough-Ins (1 week)
After demolition, the "rough-in" phase begins. Licensed electricians and plumbers install or relocate the necessary wiring, pipes, and outlets based on your new kitchen layout.
This includes:
- Plumbing lines for sinks and dishwashers
- Electrical points for ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, and lighting
- Gas lines if required
It’s crucial this step is done by qualified professionals to ensure compliance with Australian standards and building codes.
Flooring Installation (1 week)
If your kitchen renovation includes new flooring, this step typically follows the rough-in. Depending on the material you’ve chosen—tiles, vinyl, laminate, or timber—the installation time can vary slightly.
Make sure the flooring is installed level and sealed properly to prevent future damage, especially in high-moisture zones.
Cabinetry and Joinery Installation (1–2 weeks)
Now the transformation really begins to take shape. Your new cabinets and joinery are delivered and installed according to the approved design plan.
This stage may include:
- Base and overhead cabinets
- Pantry units or island benches
- Custom joinery (if applicable)
Proper alignment and levelling are critical here, as they affect the fit of benchtops and appliances.
Benchtop and Splashback Installation (1 week)
Benchtops are usually measured for precision after cabinets are installed, so expect a short delay for cutting and fabrication. Once ready, installation is quick, followed by your selected splashback—whether tiles, glass, or stone.
Your kitchen is now starting to look like a finished space!
Appliance Installation and Final Fit-Out (1 week)
Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Your chosen appliances—cooktop, oven, fridge, dishwasher, and rangehood—are installed and connected.
Other final details include:
- Tapware and sinks
- Handles, lighting fixtures, and fittings
- Painting and final clean-up
A final inspection ensures everything functions safely and smoothly.
Final Inspection and Handover
Before wrapping up your kitchen renovation, your contractor will conduct a walk-through to identify any minor issues or touch-ups. This is your opportunity to flag anything that doesn’t meet your expectations and request adjustments.
Once completed, the kitchen is officially ready for use—and the celebration can begin!
So, How Long Does It Take?
While every renovation varies, a standard kitchen renovation usually takes around 6–8 weeks from demolition to completion, depending on scope, materials, and coordination of trades.
However, don’t forget to account for the planning stage, which can add another few weeks prior to physical work beginning.
