At Smart Kitchen , we’re big believers in the power of a good kitchen update on a budget. We know that even relatively small changes can have a big impact when they are carefully planned. We also know that you don’t need to break the bank to completely refresh the look and feel of your kitchen.
Here we share some of our favourite projects from the past couple of years. In each of these, we were able to work closely with the homeowners to develop a tailored kitchen design. We were also able to reinvigorate the space and deliver some truly stunning results that the family can now enjoy!
This open plan wonder in Daylesford
The rise of working from home meant the owners of this beautiful rural retreat were escaping the city more frequently. But the more time they spent here, the more they realised the space simply didn’t work for their family. In particular, the small U-shaped kitchen was cramped, closed off from the other living areas, and lacked storage space.
Working with their builder, our fully assembled kitchens delivered direct to the home were perfect. Removing the wall around the kitchen and opening it up to the rest of the home, allowed more space for storage, and drawers were used to maximise the functionality. A central ‘cooking hub’ was also added to highlight the improved flow and allow multiple family members to cook together.
The colour palette was also updated to modernise the design and create a sense of simple luxury. Metro cabinets in Tornado Satin were chosen to add depth and tie in with the white shutter windows. And Ambassador benchtops in Sparkling White were used to complete the crisp, contemporary look.
For more information on this diy kitchen renovation, check out the project profile.
Light and bright galley in Rosebud
While the owners of this older home in Rosebud loved its traditional styling, they felt the kitchen needed an update. As avid entertainers, their top priority was increasing the connection with both the indoor and outdoor dining areas. They were also after a more modern look and were particular fans of the popular Shaker style.
To achieve this, our design team recommended re-orienting the kitchen and embracing the improved flow of a galley-style layout. This opened the space up to the neighbouring dining room and, with the addition of French doors, the outdoor entertaining area. A clean Hamptons-inspired colour palette was also chosen, featuring Shaker cabinets in White Satin and Duropal Benchtops in Marble Carrara.
For more information on this renovation, check out the project profile.
This modern marvel in Hillside
The owners of this modern home in Hillside were actually quite happy with the functionality of their kitchen. However, they felt the two-tone cabinetry and dark tiles dated the space and that they would benefit from more storage. They also wanted to update their generous but basic laundry, adding storage and improving the look and feel.
Noting that the layout largely worked, our design team suggested focusing on improving usability and the quality of finishes whilst still meeting their budget. As part of this, drawers were added to either side of the oven to make storing pots and pans easier. A large pantry cupboard was also located adjacent to the cooking area to minimise unnecessary movement during food preparation.
As there was no natural light source in the kitchen area, a clean and bright colour scheme was chosen. This featured Milano cabinets in White Gloss and YDL Deluxe benchtops in Sabia, offset by a matte black sink.
For more information on this renovation, check out the project profile.
This clean and contemporary creation in Heidelberg Heights
These first home buyers in Heidelberg Heights felt the kitchen’s darker colour scheme made the space feel smaller than it actually was. They also thought it looked dated and that it simply didn’t suit their sense of style. That said, they were happy enough with the existing layout and how the kitchen generally functioned.
With that in mind, our design team mostly focused on lightening the area up and optimising the storage space. Once again, drawers were added beside the oven to improve the functionality of the cooking zone. Several other under-bench cupboards also featured internal slide out drawers to maximise the usability of the space.
One of the biggest changes was the crisp colour scheme chosen to make the space feel brighter and more open. This featured Shaker cabinets in White Satin paired with a small section of Excel cabinets in Urban Oak to add warmth. The look was completed with Caesarstone benchtops in Aterra Blanca and slim black handles throughout.
For more information on how this diy renovation happened check out the project profile.
Looking for a little more inspiration?
These are just a few of the beautiful kitchen renovations we’ve been involved in recently. To see more of our work, check out our gallery or contact us to set up a free in-store design.