Not Sure What Kind of Kitchen Renovation You’re Doing? Start Here.
If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, chances are you’ve already started looking at colours, layouts, or inspiration photos.
But before you go too far, there’s one step that makes everything easier, from your kitchen design to your budget and how long the whole process will take.
You need to know what kind of kitchen project you’re planning.
It sounds simple, but this decision shapes the entire renovation. Get it right early, and the rest of your journey will feel more structured and far less stressful.
Why This Step Matters
Every kitchen renovation is different. Some people just want a fresh look. Others are opening up walls or building a brand-new space.
Knowing which type of project you’re doing helps:
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Set realistic timelines
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Keep your budget on track
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Avoid unnecessary design changes later
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Make sure you’re planning the right way from day one
This blog will walk you through what to consider at the start.
Step 1: Do You Have a Timeline in Mind?
Even if you’re not 100% sure when you’ll start, a general idea helps us plan around it.
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Want it done before Christmas?
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Need to wait until school holidays?
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Just bought a house and want to renovate before moving in?
Knowing your rough timeline helps us manage lead times, trade availability, and product orders. Some kitchen renovations can be completed in as little as six weeks, while others, especially those involving building work, may take several months.
Tip: Start your design consultation early, even if your renovation is still a few months away.
Step 2: Do You Know Your Budget Range?
You don’t need to have a final number, but having an investment bracket in mind gives your designer the info they need to guide your selections.
Here’s a quick example of common ranges we work with at Unity Kitchens:
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Streamline Projects
A fresh layout, quality materials, and simple updates, without major structural work. -
Harmony Projects
More flexibility with layout, higher-end finishes, and upgraded appliances. -
Prestige Projects
Full custom design, premium materials, and often part of a bigger extension or new home build.
Want help estimating what your dream kitchen might cost? Check out our "Planning with Confidence" kitchen design workshop for more budgeting tips.
Step 3: What Kind of Project Are You Doing?
Now let’s look at the four most common kitchen renovation types, so you can figure out where yours fits.
1. Existing Kitchen Renovation
You’re keeping the same kitchen footprint but want to update the look, feel, or functionality.
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No major building work
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Plumbing and appliances often stay in the same place
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Great for refreshing older kitchens or improving storage
Best for: Homeowners who are happy with the general layout and want a faster, more affordable upgrade.
2. Kitchen Renovation with Room Changes
You’re changing the layout or opening up the space, like knocking down a wall or shifting the island.
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May involve moving services (plumbing, power, gas)
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Often needs extra time for design and approvals
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It can completely transform how the kitchen flows into other living areas
Best for: Families wanting an open-plan feel or better use of space. Planning and design need to be locked in early to avoid delays.
3. New Kitchen in a Home Extension
You’re building onto your home and creating a brand-new kitchen space within that extension.
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Includes building works, council approvals, and multiple trades
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Kitchen design should be locked in before framing starts
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The timeline depends on the builder’s construction schedule
Best for: Homeowners doing large-scale renovations who want a modern kitchen designed for a growing family.
4. New Kitchen in a New Home
You’re building a new home and designing your kitchen from scratch.
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Full flexibility with layout and design
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Needs early coordination with the builder for plumbing, lighting, and ventilation
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Best results come from having your kitchen designer involved in the early planning stages
Best for: Anyone who wants a tailored kitchen that supports how they live, not just a cookie-cutter builder’s layout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few things we often see go wrong when people skip this step:
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Starting without a clear scope (“We’ll figure it out later”)
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Underestimating how long planning takes
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Not allowing for lead times on materials or appliances
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Forgetting to budget for changes like wall removals or custom cabinetry
These are all avoidable with the right upfront planning.
Quick Tip
The earlier you get clear on what kind of project you’re doing, the smoother the rest of the renovation will go. Most blowouts come from unclear planning, not from bad luck.
Ready to Plan Your Kitchen the Right Way?
At Unity Kitchens, we help homeowners across Newcastle design kitchens that suit their home, lifestyle, and budget.
If you're not sure where to start—or what your project type means for cost, timing, or design, we’ll walk you through it.
Join our FREE Kitchen Design Workshop and learn how to plan your renovation with confidence. We’ll cover everything from layout and style to budgeting and timelines, plus real project examples so you know what to expect.
Or if you're ready to speak with someone, you can book a call and get personalised guidance for your renovation.
