Kitchen Renovation Guide: A Step-By-Step Renovation Plan

Step 1: Designing Your Dream Kitchen

The design phase is the most exciting and crucial stage in any kitchen renovation project. This is where your vision starts to come to life, and it’s important not to rush this process. Taking the time to carefully consider all aspects of your new kitchen, from layout and functionality to materials, finishes and appliances. Be sure to work closely with an experienced designer as it will allow you to explore various layout options and make informed decisions that fit your aesthetic preferences for your kitchen renovations.

Spending a little extra time on this stage will save you from potential regrets later and help ensure that the entire renovation process runs smoothly. It is also essential to account for the flow and functionality of your space, making sure your kitchen meets both your design aspirations and practical needs. At this stage, don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek expert advice to ensure you are selecting the best options for your budget and vision.

Once you’ve settled on the design and chosen all your finishes, fixtures, and appliances, it’s time to begin placing your orders. It’s important to note that the lead time for items like cabinets can vary significantly depending on the supplier and materials chosen. While off-the-shelf, standard-sized cabinets are readily available, custom-made cabinets—tailored to your specific needs and measurements—can take up to six weeks to be manufactured and delivered.

If you’re looking for a professional team to guide you through the design and renovation process, RJG Group is a trusted partner that can bring your kitchen vision to life. With years of experience and a dedicated team of designers, project managers, and craftsmen, RJG Group ensures that every detail of your kitchen renovation is meticulously planned and executed. Their expertise in design, coupled with a strong network of contractors, ensures that your custom kitchen is delivered on time and to your exact specifications, making your renovation experience seamless and stress-free.

TOP TIP: To avoid delays, order key items such as cabinets, countertops, and appliances early in the process. The lead times for these products can be lengthy, especially for custom-made items, so placing your orders as soon as the design is finalised will help ensure everything arrives on time and your project stays on schedule.

Step 2: Demolishing and Removing Your Old Kitchen – The First Step in Your Full Kitchen Fit out

Once you’ve placed the order for your new kitchen fit out and received the estimated delivery date for cabinets, counters and appliances, the next critical step is preparing your new space for the transformation. At RJG Group, we understand that this phase is more than just a “cabinet removal” process – it involves a complete kitchen fit out overhaul.

From tearing down old cabinets to disconnecting plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances, a full kitchen fit out is an intricate process. But don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through each step to ensure that your kitchen renovation starts off on the right foot.

The Full Kitchen Demolition: Clearing the Way for Your Dream Space

When you begin your kitchen renovation, the first thing you will need to do is remove the old fit out. This includes not only cabinets but also countertops, old flooring, lighting, ad any appliances that are going to be replaced. Demolition is a crucial part of preparing the space for a modern, functional, kitchen that suits your lifestyle and home aesthetic.

This can be stressful, but with the right help of professionals, it can be completed quickly, effectively and beautifully. At RJG Group, we can connect you with experienced tradespeople who specialise in kitchen demolition, ensuring everything is done safely and efficiently.

Disconnecting Utilities: Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical Safety First

Before you begin ripping out cabinets or countertops, it is essential to have the plumbing, gas lines, and electrical systems safely disconnected. This is one area where hiring a professional electrician or plumber is crucial.

A licensed plumber will disconnect sinks, faucets, dishwashers, and any other plumbing fixtures, while an electrician will handle any electrical appliances, light fixtures, and outlets. If you have a gas stove, a certified gas fitter will need to safely disconnect those lines.

Handling these disconnections yourself is risky, unsafe and could lead to costly repairs or safety hazards down the line, so it’s always best to leave these tasks to the experts.

Demolishing the Old Kitchen

With utilities safely disconnected, it’s time to begin the demolition of your old kitchen. This involves removing all the elements that you plan to replace, such as:

1. Cabinets – Once the utilities are disconnected, it’s time to remove the cabinets. Depending on how they’re installed, this could involve unscrewing them from the walls or taking them apart piece by piece. If you’re planning to reuse or sell your old cabinets, be sure to handle carefully to avoid any damage!
2. Countertops — Whether it’s granite, marble, laminate, or another material, your countertops need to be removed before the new ones can be installed. This can be tricky depending on the type of material, but a professional demolition crew will ensure everything is taken down safely.
3. Appliances — Dishwashers, ovens, refrigerators, and other large appliances need to be carefully removed. This may require professional assistance, especially if they’re connected to plumbing or electrical systems.
4. Flooring and Walls — Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need to replace flooring or update the walls. This could involve removing old tiles, hardwood, or carpet, and possibly patching or reworking drywall to create a smooth, clean surface for your new design.

Sustainable Kitchen Renovations: Repurpose, Reuse, and Recycle

A full kitchen fit out can generate a lot of waste, but there are ways to minimise your environmental footprint. If your cabinets, countertops, or appliances are in good condition, consider giving them a second life. Sites like Facebook Marketplace, or local buy-and-sell groups are great for listing second-hand items, allowing others to reuse your kitchen pieces. Alternatively, you might want to donate them to local charities or thrift stores.

Setting Up a Temporary Kitchen

Once your demolition begins, you most likely will not be able to use your kitchen for some time. Here are some tips to make use of other spaces in your home:

Create a Temporary Kitchen Setup: If possible, set up a small temporary kitchen space in another room of your home. This could include a microwave, toaster, and a small fridge to keep essential food prep going.

• Outdoor Cooking: If the weather permits, consider grilling in your backyard or setting up a portable cooktop in your garage, deck, or outside area. It can be a fun alternative to your usual routine.
• Utilise Takeaways Options: If you don’t have space for a temporary setup, this can be the time to indulge in a few takeaways or meals out. A renovation project can take a lot of time and energy, so don’t feel guilty about relying on convenience during this period.

Preparing for the New Kitchen Fit out

Once the demolition is complete and your space is clear, it’s time to get ready for your new kitchen fit out. This process involves:

1. Installing New Plumbing and Electrical: Before your new kitchen can take shape, your plumber and electrician will need to come back and make sure everything is in place for the new appliances, sink, and lighting. This is a great time to discuss any changes you want to make to the layout, like adding extra outlets or installing a new water filtration system.
2. Flooring and Walls: With everything cleared out, it’s time to lay down new flooring (whether it’s tiles, hardwood, or vinyl) and prep the walls for the installation of your new cabinetry and countertops. Depending on the style you choose, this may involve tiling backsplashes or repainting. Your project manager will guide you on any changes that need to be made.
3. Cabinet and Countertop Installation: Once the structural elements are in place, the installation of your new kitchen cabinets, countertops, and appliances can begin. This is where the fun happens — your vision for your dream kitchen starts to come to life.

The Importance of Professional Help in a Full Kitchen Fit out

At RJG Group, we believe in making your kitchen renovation as seamless as possible. A full kitchen fit out involves many steps, from demolition to installation, and each requires specific expertise. Our team can connect you with reliable tradespeople who specialise in every aspect of kitchen renovations, from demolition experts to skilled plumbers, electricians, and installers.

Whether you’re updating your kitchen with modern finishes or completely changing the layout, RJG is here to guide you through the entire process. With the right planning and professional help, your full kitchen fitout will be an exciting and smooth journey.

By carefully planning each stage and enlisting professional help when needed, you can ensure that your full kitchen fitout is done right.

Step 3: Installing New Plumbing and Electrical Systems

Once the demolition is complete, your kitchen space will be cleared and ready for the installation of new systems. It is important to ensure that all the plumbing, gas and electrical systems are properly set up to accommodate the new appliances, sinks and lighting, so this is a crucial step in the renovation process.

1. Plumbing: A professional plumber will install the new piping for your sink, dishwasher, and any other water-related appliances. If you have planned to change the layout of your kitchen, plumbing lines will need to be rerouted to new locations. It is important that you research if you need council approval for this.
2. Electrical: Electricians will ensure that all electrical outlets, light fixtures, and appliances are properly wired and functioning. This step might include installing under-cabinet lighting, adding outlets for new appliances, or upgrading the electrical panel to support the additional load.
3. Gas Lines: If you’re installing a gas stove or other gas appliances, a certified gas fitter will ensure that the gas lines are correctly installed and properly connected.

Top Tip: Always check regulations, and obtain strata approval for plumbing, electrical, and gas installations. Hiring certified professionals ensures that your work complies with all necessary standards, meets legal requirements, and maintains the safety and integrity of your home.

Step 4: Installing the New Flooring

Once the plumbing and electrical work is done, it’s time to install your new flooring. This is typically one of the first steps in creating a functional kitchen space, as it sets the foundation for everything else.

Flooring options include:

• Tiles: Ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles are popular, durable choices that are easy to clean and come in a variety of designs.
• Hardwood: Hardwood floors are timeless and add warmth to the space. Ensure that the wood you choose is properly sealed to withstand moisture from cooking and cleaning.
• Vinyl: Vinyl floors are budget-friendly, easy to maintain, and available in a wide range of colours and patterns. They’re a great option for a modern kitchen on a budget.
• Engineered Wood: If you love the look of hardwood but need something more resilient, engineered wood might be the solution. It’s made of multiple layers, making it more durable than traditional hardwood.

Top Tip: Make sure the flooring is installed before the cabinets to avoid the extra hassle of cutting tiles or flooring around the cabinets later. It provides a cleaner finish and simplifies the process.

Step 5: Installing Cabinets and Countertops

Now that the foundation is laid with plumbing, electrical, and flooring, it’s time for the installation of the cabinets and countertops. This is often the most visually impactful part of the renovation. The kitchen will begin to take shape as your new cabinets are installed.

• Cabinet Installation – The first part of the process is installing base cabinets, followed by upper cabinets. Skilled installers will ensure that all cabinets are level, secure, and aligned properly with your design. Depending on your layout, you may also be installing custom or semi-custom cabinets that require precise measurements.
• Countertop Installation – Once the cabinets are in place, countertops will be measured and installed. This step is often done by a specialist, particularly for high-end materials like granite, quartz, or marble. Installation typically involves careful alignment to ensure there are no gaps or misalignments.

Top Tip: If you’re installing heavy countertops such as stone or quartz, it’s best to have professionals do the lifting and installation. These materials are durable but can crack if not handled properly.

Step 6: Installing Appliances

After the cabinets and countertops are installed, the next phase is placing your new appliances. This includes everything from your refrigerator, oven, range hood, and dishwasher to any additional built-ins you may have opted for, like microwaves or wine coolers.

• Plumbing Connections – The dishwasher, sink, and ice-maker lines will need to be connected to your existing plumbing.
• Electrical Hookups – If your appliances require electrical work (like an oven or range), an electrician will make sure they’re properly wired.
• Gas Connections – If you’ve chosen a gas range or other gas-powered appliance, a licensed gas fitter will install the necessary lines.

Top Tip: Be sure to check that all your appliances are installed before the kitchen is fully completed. This allows time for adjustments, ensuring that everything fits perfectly into the space.

Step 7: Tiling Backsplashes and Installing Fixtures

At this point, your kitchen is nearly complete, but there are a few final finishing touches to consider. Installing backsplashes is a critical part of the renovation as it adds both style and functionality to your space. You’ll want to protect your walls from splashes and stains while giving your kitchen an extra visual appeal.

1. Tiling the Backsplash – This can be a DIY project or handled by a professional. You’ll need to choose your tiles—popular options include subway tiles, mosaic designs, or natural stone. Make sure the tiles are correctly grouted and sealed to prevent moisture from getting behind them.
2. Installing Lighting Fixtures – Lighting is an essential part of any kitchen renovation. Consider ambient lighting, task lighting (such as under-cabinet lighting), and accent lighting for a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
3. Installing Faucets and Sinks – The sink, faucet, and any additional water fixtures should be installed and tested at this stage.

Top Tip: Installing a backsplash with grout that’s easy to clean will make your kitchen maintenance much easier in the long run.

Step 8: Final Touches and Detailing

Once the major installation work is complete, it’s time to focus on the details. This includes:

• Hardware Installation – Add knobs, pulls, and handles to your cabinets and drawers. These small additions will make your kitchen look polished and functional.
• Final Cleaning – A deep clean of your kitchen is necessary before it’s ready to be used. This includes wiping down countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
• Testing Appliances – Make sure all your appliances are working correctly, from the refrigerator to the stove and oven. Check that everything is set up and functioning as expected.

Top Tip: Don’t skip this step, as thorough cleaning is essential to remove dust and debris from the construction process, ensuring your kitchen is ready for use.

Step 9: Review and Touch-Up

At this stage, your kitchen renovation should be nearly finished. It’s time for a final review of the entire space:

1. Walkthrough – Go over every detail of your new kitchen with your project manager or contractor to ensure everything is to your liking.
2. Adjust – If there are any last-minute adjustments that need to be made—whether it’s touching up paint, fixing a cabinet door, or adjusting an appliance—now is the time to address them.

Top Tip: It’s always a good idea to take a few days to live with your new kitchen before finalising everything. You may notice small tweaks or adjustments that you’d like to make after using the space.

Step 10: Enjoy Your New Kitchen

After all the planning, work, and coordination, it’s finally time to enjoy your stunning new kitchen! Now that the renovation is complete, it’s time to savour your new space, cook delicious meals, and host friends and family.

Take time to admire the transformation of your kitchen and remember that you can continue making it your own with décor and personalisation. Your new kitchen should be a space that reflects your tastes and meets the needs of your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts on Kitchen Renovation

A successful kitchen renovation requires a blend of careful planning, skilled professionals, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure that your renovation project runs smoothly, from concept to completion. With the help of a trusted partner like RJG Group, you can bring your vision to life and create the kitchen of your dreams—one that is not only beautiful but also functional and tailored to your needs.

The key to a stress-free kitchen renovation lies in setting realistic expectations, ordering materials early, working with experienced professionals, and ensuring that each stage is executed with care. And remember, when it’s all done, you’ll have a brand-new space that you can enjoy for years to come.