Planning a small kitchen reno? Look, I’ve been through this more times than I care to admit (thanks to my terrible habit of buying fixer-uppers). Let me save you some headaches.
## **Start With the Hard Truth**
Your kitchen probably doesn’t need a complete gut job. I know, I know – those Instagram kitchens are calling your name. But here in Melbourne, a smart kitchen facelift can work absolute wonders without sending you to the poor house.
First things first – figure out what’s actually broken versus what just bugs you. Is it:
– Cabinets that won’t close properly?
– That hideous laminate from 1987?
– Zero storage space?
– All of the above? (been there)
## **The Budget Reality Check**
Okay lets talk money. Because if we don’t, you’ll end up eating baked beans for the next five years.
For a small kitchen renovation in Melbourne, you’re looking at:
– **Under $10,000** – Perfect for a facelift (new benchtops, maybe some cabinet doors)
– **$10,000-$20,000** – Now we’re talking proper changes, new splashback, better storage
– **$20,000+** – Sky’s the limit baby! Stone benchtops, custom cabinets, the works
Here’s my advice: add 20% to whatever number you just came up with. Trust me on this one.
## **The Sneaky Smart Approach**
You know what I discovered? Sometimes you don’t need new cabinets at all. Just new doors. Or even just… wait for it… a really good resurface job. Mind. Blown.
I watched this crew from FixNow transform a kitchen last month – they literally just:
– Resurfaced the existing cabinets
– Added a glass splashback
– Popped in a mobile island bench for extra storage
Looked like a completely different kitchen. Cost? Fraction of a full reno.
## **The Planning Blueprint (That Actually Works)**
**Week 1-2: The Dream Phase**
– Pinterest the hell out of it (but stay realistic)
– Measure everything twice. Then measure again
– Take photos of your current kitchen from every angle
**Week 3-4: The Reality Phase**
– Get quotes (always get at least 3)
– Pick your battles – what HAS to change vs what you can live with
– Check if you need permits (spoiler: probably not for a facelift)
**Week 5-6: Lock It In**
– Choose your tradies (references are everything)
– Order materials
– Prepare for chaos (stock up on microwave meals)
## **The Stuff Nobody Tells You**
Your kitchen will be out of action. Even for a “simple” reno. I once tried to cook pasta on a camping stove in my living room. Don’t be me.
Also:
– That “quick” benchtop replacement? Might uncover dodgy plumbing
– Delivery delays happen. All. The. Time.
– Your partner will change their mind about the splashback color precisely 3 hours after you order it
## **The Local Advantage**
Here’s something I learned the hard way – use local crews. They know Melbourne homes, they know our weird weather, and they actually show up when they say they will.
Plus, when something needs fixing six months later (because something always does), they’re just a quick call away. Not disappearing into the internet void like some cowboys I could mention.
## **My Final Two Cents**
A small kitchen renovation doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Keep it simple, be realistic about your budget, and for the love of all that is holy – don’t try to DIY the plumbing.
Oh, and one more thing? That mobile island bench idea? Genius. Wish I’d thought of that for my place.
Now excuse me while I go stare longingly at stone benchtops I definitely can’t afford…
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*Need help planning your kitchen renovation? The team at FixNow specializes in everything from simple facelifts to complete kitchen overhauls. Give them a buzz on 0413 019 505 – they service most of Melbourne and actually know what they’re doing.*