Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Kitchen Renovation in Sydney

Planning a kitchen renovation in Sydney can feel overwhelming — but with the right process in place, it becomes a rewarding journey that transforms one of the most important spaces in your home. Whether you're updating a tired kitchen in an older property or designing your dream cooking space from scratch, having a clear roadmap makes all the difference. At ICAD Joinery, we’ve helped countless Sydney homeowners bring their kitchen renovation ideas to life. In this guide, we walk you through each stage of the process — from defining your goals to completing the final fit-out — so you can approach your project with confidence and clarity.

Define Your Goals and Budget

Before you begin selecting materials or browsing design ideas, take time to define your goals. Think about how you use your kitchen day to day. Do you need more storage? Are you after an open-plan layout? Would you like to improve lighting or ventilation? Clarifying your priorities helps shape the design and ensures the final result suits your lifestyle. Once you’ve identified what you want, it’s important to determine your budget. Kitchen renovations in Sydney can range from modest updates to high-end transformations, so understanding what you’re comfortable spending helps guide your choices for materials, finishes, and appliances. Keep in mind that factors such as layout changes, custom joinery, and plumbing work can significantly influence costs.

Consult a Professional Designer or Joiner

The next step is to collaborate with an experienced kitchen designer or joinery specialist. A professional can assess your space, provide ideas you may not have considered, and help maximise both function and aesthetics. At ICAD Joinery, we offer in-home design consultations to better understand your needs and measure your space accurately. A skilled designer will also prepare initial sketches or 3D visuals to bring your ideas to life. This stage is crucial for identifying layout improvements, deciding on cabinetry configuration, and ensuring everything flows logically — especially in Sydney homes where space can be limited or uniquely shaped.

Select Your Materials and Finishes

Choosing the right materials for your kitchen surfaces is both a design and lifestyle decision. Start by selecting your cabinetry style and finish — whether that’s sleek polyurethane, textured timber, or a more traditional shaker profile. From there, explore benchtop options such as stone, laminate, or timber, each offering different levels of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Think about the splashback, flooring, and lighting as well. All of these elements should work together to create a cohesive look. Your material selection should reflect not only your style but also how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. A professional joinery team can recommend finishes that balance beauty with practicality — particularly important in a busy household.

Finalise the Design and Obtain Quotes

Once the layout and materials are agreed upon, the designer will finalise the kitchen plans with detailed measurements and specifications. At this point, it’s time to request a full quote for the renovation. Your quote should cover everything from cabinetry and benchtops to plumbing, electrical, demolition, and installation. Be sure to clarify what is and isn’t included in the scope of work. At ICAD Joinery, we provide clear, transparent quotes with no hidden fees. This allows you to stay in control of your budget and timeline, avoiding any surprises during the build.

Prepare for Installation

Before installation begins, your old kitchen will need to be removed. This may involve disconnecting plumbing and electricity, which should always be handled by licensed trades. If you're living in the home during the renovation, consider setting up a temporary kitchen with essentials like a microwave, kettle, and fridge. The installation stage typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of the design. Custom cabinetry will be delivered and installed first, followed by benchtops, splashbacks, and finally appliances and plumbing fixtures. A good renovation team will coordinate trades to keep the project on schedule while minimising disruption to your home.

Once the renovation is complete, you’ll be left with a kitchen that not only looks stunning but also functions beautifully for your everyday life. Take the time to inspect the finished work, test all appliances and fittings, and raise any concerns with your installer to ensure everything is up to standard. A well-designed kitchen can improve how you live, cook, and connect as a family. It can also add significant value to your home — especially in a competitive market like Sydney. If you're thinking about renovating your kitchen in Sydney, the team at ICAD Joinery is here to guide you every step of the way. From initial design to final installation, we deliver custom kitchen solutions that reflect your style, suit your space, and stand the test of time.