how to guide: kitchen renovations

Is your tired 80s kitchen ready for a second life? If you’ve been thinking 'I could make that better', kaboodle is made for you.

Renovating your kitchen yourself is a commitment but it’s also where the real satisfaction lives. With kaboodle, you’re not just buying a kitchen, you’re making one. One that fits your space, your budget and your way of doing things.

We give you the tools, guidance and flexibility to take control of the journey, from first sketch to final screw, so you can create a kitchen that feels truly yours.

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Start strong with our handy step-by-step guide to planning your MIY kitchen renovation. You’ve got this. You made it.

the benefits of a DIY kitchen

When you take on a kitchen renovation yourself, every decision reflects your style, your needs and the way you live. From layout to finishes, you’re creating what fits.

Making it yourself also means making smarter choices. By taking control of the process, you can work within your budget, tackle the parts you’re confident with and get hands-on where it matters most. With flexible, off-the-shelf solutions from kaboodle, it’s easier to access quality components without paying for things you don’t need. But the real reward goes beyond savings or style. Nothing beats the confidence that comes from learning new skills, stepping back and realising you built this.

start with the design

The most exciting part about a kitchen renovation is picking the design, but it’s also the most important because you won’t get a second chance to change it once the renovation is finished. From sleek and modern to cosy and coastal, kaboodle has it all. Use our style selector to explore our range of colours in different layouts and kitchen sizes and get a quick visual of how your dream kitchen will look.

You can also flick through our inspiration gallery and read from other makers on their renovation.

accurate measurements are crucial

Measuring your space is one of the most important steps of your kitchen renovation. Being as accurate as you can be and double-checking your measurements helps to ensure no irreversible mistakes are made during installation.

Relying on good tools, jotting your dimensions down in one dimension, and accurately recording your measurements on our planning grid sheet can help you layout your new kitchen more accurately.

plan your project

The best way to plan your project is through mykaboodle, a project management tool that helps you track each step of your kitchen renovation and more. Discover your unique style with inspiration that's tailored to you. Create bespoke moodboards, powered by Pinterest Design your dream solution with the 3D kaboodle planner, and be guided the whole way with simple steps and all the helpful resources you need to kaboodle it!

pick your products

The finishes you choose can make or break the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. When making this decision, you should also consider your family’s needs, such as if you require a pantry to stock groceries or want an easy-to-clean benchtop for big messes. If you’re using our 3D planner, you can pick your products using this tool.

cabinets

Choosing your cabinets often boils down to the preferred layout of your kitchen. Picking a practical design that maximises storage, tight corners, and eliminates gaps is the key to a functional kitchen. Have tall ceilings? Double stack your cabinets to unlock an extra level of storage. If your kitchen is oddly shaped, our customisable cabinets can be cut and measured to suit the unique widths required for your kitchen.

door colours

The doors are just as important as the cabinets you choose! Browse our range of trendy colours from neutral greys and whites to vibrant blues and greens, whatever style you’re aiming for in your new kitchen — kaboodle has you covered.

benchtops

Benchtops are one of the most important parts of a kitchen. Our products are manufactured to make your life easier thanks to a breezy installation and a range of materials available to choose from. From timber to stone-look laminates to modular and customisable options, take your pick!

accessories

The finishing touches on your kitchen are just as important. Kaboodle offers a collection of parts and accessories to make your kitchen your own. Browse our range of handles, hinges, bins, wireware, storage solutions, and more online or at your local Bunnings Warehouse today.

the 3 biggest diy kitchen renovation traps

While making a kitchen yourself can be a great way to save money, there are some potential pitfalls to be aware of.

1. underestimating the amount of work involved

A kitchen renovation can be a complex project that requires planning, time, and effort. Rushing the process or failing to anticipate unexpected challenges can result in costly mistakes and a less-than-ideal result.

2. opting for low-quality materials 

Choosing the cheaper option for your kitchen renovation may seem like a quick way to save money, but it can cost you in the long run. This is why it's essential to look at the quality of the products over the price. Our range at kaboodle is perfect for homeowners who want to ensure their new kitchen is created on a budget while sticking to high-quality standards. All our products are AFRDI tested and certified as well as Australian-owned, so you can rest easy knowing our items will stand against the test of time in your busy kitchen. 

3. failing to seek professional advice or assistance when needed

Ignoring building codes or overlooking essential aspects of the project can lead to dangerous or costly mistakes. It's important to be realistic about your abilities and seek help when necessary to ensure a successful and safe renovation.

faqs

how to start a diy kitchen renovation after planning?

Once you have a solid plan in place for your DIY kitchen renovation, the next step is to start gathering materials and tools. It's essential to have a detailed list of everything you'll need, from cabinets and appliances to hardware and finishing touches.

Before you begin any work, you should also ensure you have the necessary permits and review any building codes and regulations (if they apply to you). It's also a good idea to have a realistic timeline and budget in place.

can I install kitchen cabinets myself?

Installing kitchen cabinets is a common DIY project for many homeowners. However, it's important to have a good understanding of the process and the necessary tools before beginning.

If you're new to DIY renovations, consider starting with a small project, like replacing cabinet hardware, before tackling a full cabinet installation. You'll also want to carefully measure and plan the layout to ensure a smooth and successful installation.

If you're not confident in your abilities or don't have the necessary tools, it's best to seek professional assistance to avoid costly mistakes or potential safety hazards.