The Complete Guide to Kitchen Renovations in Melbourne: Costs, Trends & Tips

Upgrading your Melbourne home could be a costly process. From the primary cost of materials to finding the right labour, you will have to plan everything properly in your budget, especially if you are making changes to your cooking space.

Kitchen renovations in Melbourne are often associated with altering the style, changing cabinet design, adding new storage space or giving it a new splash of colour. Every upgrade you do should complement the existing design and do its best job in elevating the style of the kitchen.

Many homeowners, especially those upgrading their kitchen for the first time, become a bit tense thinking that the changes will affect the structure of the kitchen layout. Many also fear losing the integrity or style of the kitchen. However, upgrading will only add more strength, aesthetics, and functionality without altering the basic layout of your kitchen.

In this blog, we will find out what you need to know about renovating your kitchen, cost estimates, latest trends and tips that you require to elevate your cooking area. Let’s dive in:

➡️ Costs Involved In Kitchen Upgrades:

• For Basic Upgrades

When you think of adding a new colour to your kitchen, repainting cabinets, replacing benchtops, updating tapware and changing the lighting system, the cost could be around $3000 – $6000.The cost involves the materials, labour costs and any other hidden expenses.

• Medium Kitchen Upgrades

If you want to add new cabinets, modern appliances, stone or engineered stone benchtops, luxury flooring, and minor layout changes, then the cost could range around to $6000 –$16000.It’s suitable for those who are looking to add more functional features and improve aesthetics in the cooking space.

• Luxury Kitchen Renovations

Premium kitchen upgrades involve focusing on the layout change, where every fixture added is of the highest quality. Some of the premium upgrades include bespoke cabinetry, buying high-end appliances, replacing stone benchtops with marble and other luxury materials, having a butler’s pantry and more as such. If you want to change the structure, it can also be costly as it involves tearing down walls or floors to extend the workable space in your kitchen.

The costs mentioned here are only rough estimates. The total cost varies as it depends on factors like your kitchen size, layout, labour costs, appliance costs, and structural changes. You should consult a professional and ask questions about kitchen renovations to determine the cost needed to get all the upgrades you need.

➡️ Best Dishwashers for Small Kitchens: Compact & Efficient

The Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher is a compact 18-inch slimline model designed for small kitchens, apartments, and under-counter installations. Despite its space-saving design, it offers 8 place settings, 6 versatile wash programs, and advanced functions like Heated Dry and Hi-Temp Sanitize, delivering efficient, hygienic cleaning with an Energy Star–rated performance.

Product Features:

• Slim 18-inch Built-in Design – Ideal for small kitchens and under-counter spaces
• 8 Place Settings – Fits dishes, pots, and pans up to 11 inches
• 6 Wash Programs – Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, Rinse
• Heated Dry – Improved drying without towel use
• Hi-Temp & Sanitize – Hygienic cleaning up to 136°F (58°C)
• Digital Push-Button Controls – Easy operation with LED display
• Stainless Steel Tub – Durable, odor-resistant, better drying
• Energy Star Certified – Energy-efficient performance

Pros

✅ Compact size fits perfectly in small kitchens or apartments.
✅ Multiple wash programs and hygiene functions for versatile cleaning needs.
✅ Stainless steel tub enhances durability and drying performance.
✅ Energy-efficient operation helps reduce utility costs.

Cons

❌ Limited to 8 place settings, not ideal for large families.
❌ Noise level of 52 dB may be noticeable in very quiet spaces.
❌ Heated dry not available on all cycles (e.g., Rapid).
❌ Requires dishwasher-specific detergent only.

➡️ Modern Kitchen Wine Bar Cabinet with Storage & Wine Rack

The ONBRILL 55″ Wine Bar Cabinet is a modern farmhouse–style storage unit designed to organize and display wine, glassware, and small appliances. With built-in LED lighting, charging ports, and flexible storage, it works perfectly as a wine bar, coffee station, buffet sideboard, or entryway cabinet.

➡️ Trends That You Should Look To Renovate Your Kitchen in 2026:

• Prefer Natural And Textured Materials

No matter which era you are in, you should always focus on sourcing natural and textured materials to give a timeless look to your kitchen. Prefer materials like hardwood, engineered wood, marble and granite to decorate your kitchen. They are not only aesthetic and functional but also timeless and classic.

• Go For Bold And Earthly Colours

Depending on your kitchen size, you can decide the colours your cooking space should have. For instance, if it’s a large kitchen, go for bold, earthly colours like navy blue and dark brown. You can also choose contrasting colours for accents to have a visibly stunning kitchen. For a more luxurious look, you can go for a matte finish.

• Include Automated Technology

Gone are the traditional kitchen designs where everything is done manually. The modern kitchens come with automated technology that facilitates your work,especially during the rush hours. Include sensor lighting, automatic drawer openings, and many more features that make your kitchen modern and functional.

• Increase Storage

No matter how many trends come and go, one trend that always stays is increasing storage features. Smart storage features are becoming popular onthe internet, and many people look at Pinterest pages and ask for the same during kitchen upgrades. Depending on your kitchen size and layout, you can increase storage to give a clean and sophisticated look to your cooking area.

• Focus On Sustainability

The present-day focus should be on sustainability, where you have to stress using recycled materials, water-saving fixtures, energy-efficient materials, and locally sourced products. All these will help in increasing sustainability at your home while also being kind to the environment.

• Upgrade to Smart Lighting

If it’s the one thing that makes a difference in the visual appearance of your kitchen is the lighting. You should ensure to include smart lighting with unique pendant lights, integrated lighting, sensor lighting and many more that add charm and character to your kitchen.

• Think of Combining Colour Tones

You can make the kitchen an interesting spot by mixing two contrasting colours or materials. For instance, combining wood and stone will help to achieve a unique theme for your cooking area. Likewise, combining two contrasting colours will also help in giving a visually spectacular feel to your kitchen.

These are the latest trends that you need to follow when you are looking for affordable or luxury upgrades to your kitchen. It helps in giving your home a unique vibe and feel, where you can enjoy cooking daily for your family.

➡️ Compact Deep Freezers Perfect for Small Kitchens

Our pick

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The Frigidaire 6.5 cu. ft. Upright Freezer offers reliable deep-freeze storage in a compact, space-saving design. Ideal for kitchens, RVs, dorms, cabins, or offices, it features organized wire shelving, a reversible door, and a sleek silver finish that fits seamlessly into smaller spaces.

Product Features:

• 6.5 Cu. Ft. Capacity – Plenty of space for frozen meals and bulk storage
• Compact Upright Design – Flush back and recessed handle for tight spaces
• 6 Wire Shelves – Keeps frozen items organized and easy to access
• Reversible Door – Left or right swing to match your layout
• Sleek Silver Finish – Vinyl-coated metal for durability and easy cleaning

Pros

✅ Compact size with generous freezer capacity
✅ Upright design makes organization and access easy
✅ Reversible door adds installation flexibility
✅ Stylish, easy-to-clean exterior finish

Cons

❌ Manual defrost required
❌ No interior light included
❌ Wire shelves may not suit loose items
❌ Not suitable for very large families or bulk commercial use

➡️ Wall Mount Range Hood For The Best Kitchen Renovation Choices

The COSMO COS-63175S 30-inch Wall Mount Range Hood from the Vista Collection delivers powerful ventilation with a sleek stainless steel design. Featuring 380 CFM airflow, soft touch controls, and energy-efficient LED lighting, it effectively removes smoke, grease, and odors while adding a modern look to your kitchen.

Product Features:

• 380 CFM Airflow – Efficiently removes smoke, grease, and odors
• Ducted or Ductless Option – Converts to ductless with carbon filter kit (sold separately)
• 3-Speed Fan – Adjustable ventilation for different cooking needs
• Soft Touch Controls – Easy control of fan speeds and lighting
• ARC-FLOW Filters – Permanent, dishwasher-safe stainless steel filters
• LED Lighting – Bright, energy-efficient 2W LEDs
• Stainless Steel Finish – Durable, modern, and easy to clean

Pros

✅ Strong airflow suitable for most home kitchens
✅ Quiet operation at lower fan speeds
✅ Reusable, dishwasher-safe filters reduce maintenance cost
✅ Sleek wall-mount design enhances kitchen aesthetics

Cons

❌ Carbon filter kit required for ductless setup (sold separately)
❌ Flexible ducting included instead of rigid ducting
❌ May be noisy at the highest fan speed
❌ Installation may require professional help

➡️ Tips for Your Melbourne Kitchen Renovation

Plan for How You Cook

• Kitchen Size That Matches Your Requirements: Many love to cook and use the kitchen as a place to experiment with new dishes. If you are one of those, then you require a big space in your kitchen. If you are a small family and do not require extra space in your kitchen, then choose small kitchen design options.
• Kitchen Triangle Rule: When you choose the design for your kitchen, keep the kitchen triangle rule in mind. Your refrigerator, sink and stove should be placed in a triangle shape. When you cook food in the kitchen, these three are the main things you frequently use. Choosing a design that keeps these things in a triangle shape can reduce your walking distance and save you time.
• Think About The Future: Do not renovate your kitchen just by looking at current needs. You should also consider the needs of the future. You are a small family now, but if you are planning to grow your family in the upcoming years, then it should be built in that way.

Smart Storage System

• Go Vertical: If you have a smaller kitchen space, then choosing a vertical cabinet can be more useful. Use the space from the ceiling to install a cabinet to store the materials. Keep the things you use daily on the lower shelf and other materials that you use occasionally on the upper shelf. This type of tall cabinet does not occupy much space and resolves your storage-related problem.
• Prefer Pull-Out Drawers: This type of drawer may require a higher budget, but can make your kitchen process easier. Pull-out drawer is one of the famous and popular kitchen trends. You can easily pull the drawer, get the thing you want and close it. When you are in a hurry and preparing food, this type of smart feature helps you complete the task smoothly and effortlessly.

➡️ Electric Cooktop for Reliable Cooking

The Karinear 30-Inch Electric Ceramic Cooktop features four radiant burners with simple knob controls for easy and reliable cooking. Designed with a protective metal frame and multiple safety features, it delivers powerful performance, broad cookware compatibility, and a clean built-in look—ideal for modern kitchens and users who prefer traditional controls.

Product Features:

• 30″ Built-In Electric Cooktop – Sleek drop-in design with glass ceramic surface
• Protective Metal Frame – Helps prevent glass damage and improves durability
• 4 Radiant Burners – Includes a dual-zone burner up to 2500W
• Knob Controls – Simple, user-friendly operation
• 9 Power Levels – Precise heat control for various cooking styles
• Safety Features – Hot surface indicator, over-temperature protection, auto shut-off
• Universal Cookware Compatible – Works with aluminum, cast iron, copper, and steel
• Hardwired 220–240V – No plug; requires professional installation

Pros

✅ Easy-to-use knob controls, ideal for seniors
✅ Durable metal frame protects the glass surface
✅ Compatible with all types of cookware
✅ Multiple safety features for worry-free cooking

Cons

❌ Requires professional hardwiring (no plug included)
❌ Radiant burners heat slower than induction
❌ Knob controls may not appeal to touch-control users
❌ Glass surface shows smudges and needs regular cleaning

➡️ Choose a Material That Suits Melbourne’s Life

• Tough Benchtop: This is the main place of your kitchen that handles all cooking pressure. It should be strong enough to handle extreme heat and resist stains. If you want both beauty and functionality, then choosing engineered stone can be a good idea. It provides you with a variety of colours and is also easy to clean.
• Easy To Clean Splashback: The back side of the stove and sink can get dirty easily due to the cooking and washing process. Use the material that is easy to clean and can handle all those impacts.

➡️ Light It Up and Stay Safe

• Task lighting: The lighting is important for doing your work in the kitchen. You can install the LED lights right above your cabinet so they can light up your benchtop. Your benchtop should have enough light so you can carry on your chopping and cooking process safely.
• Ambient Light: This is the common light that lights up the entire room. It gives your kitchen a uniform and modern look. You can also choose the designs that can provide you with natural light.
• Ventilation: Install a range hood in your kitchen. It is a mechanical fan that removes smoke, smell and oil drops from the environment.If these particles remain in the kitchen, it will affect your health. This tool can provide you with clean air so you can cook the food without worrying about your health.

Final Thoughts

Modern kitchen designs in Melbourne can be one of your smart investments if you plan it properly. First, identify how much you are ready to spend on it. It is better to invest in quality materials because they will provide you with long-term outcomes. Choose the materials that are in your budget and fulfil your requirements. Suppose you want to renovate it above-mentioned trending designs, then choose durable and bright colour materials. Simple designs with elegant patterns give your home a modern touch. Prioritise choosing smart storage facilities and the triangle concept for better functionality. Hope this blog helped you with what you need to do to give a new look to your cooking area.