The tiles you pick will set the mood, the maintenance schedule, and the budget for your entire bathroom renovation. For an average Auckland bathroom (around 5–8 m²), you’re looking at anywhere from $2,500 to $8,000+ on tiles and installation — so getting the material, size, colour, and layout right the first time matters more than most homeowners realise. Here’s what we’ve learnt after completing hundreds of bathroom renovations across Auckland.
Tile Materials — What Actually Works in a NZ Bathroom
Not all tiles handle moisture the same way. In a humid Auckland bathroom, the single most important property of any tile is its water absorption rate — and porcelain wins that fight.
Here’s how the main options stack up for the NZ market:
Porcelain tiles ($60–$150 per m²) are the workhorse of Auckland bathrooms. They’re fired at higher temperatures than ceramic, which makes them denser and far less porous — typically under 0.5% water absorption. That matters in a city where humidity sits high for most of the year. Porcelain works on both floors and walls, handles underfloor heating well, and comes in everything from stone-look finishes to polished concrete effects. Most of the bathrooms we complete across the North Shore and central Auckland use porcelain as the base.
Ceramic tiles ($35–$80 per m²) are the budget-friendly option. They’re lighter, easier to cut, and perfectly fine for walls. But ceramic absorbs more water than porcelain, so we generally don’t recommend ceramic for bathroom floors in wet zones — particularly in shower areas. If you’re watching costs, a common approach is ceramic on the walls with porcelain on the floor.
Natural stone tiles ($120–$250+ per m²) — marble, travertine, limestone — bring a premium feel that’s hard to replicate with porcelain look-alikes. The trade-off? Stone is porous and needs regular sealing, typically every 12–18 months. A marble shower wall in a Remuera ensuite looks stunning, but it demands more upkeep than most families want to deal with in a main bathroom.
Mosaic tiles ($40–$150 per m²) are small-format tiles (usually 20–50 mm) that come pre-mounted on mesh sheets. They’re ideal for shower niches, feature strips, and curved surfaces. The catch is labour cost — mosaics take significantly longer to install, and the grout lines add up fast. Budget an extra 20–40% on installation for any mosaic work.
💡 Quick tip: Ask your tiler or renovation company for the tile’s water absorption rating before buying. Anything above 3% absorption shouldn’t go on a bathroom floor. The NZ Building Code doesn’t specify an absorption limit directly, but compliance with Clause E3 (Internal Moisture) effectively demands low-porosity materials in wet areas.
Size and Layout — How Tile Format Changes Your Bathroom
Tile size does more heavy lifting than most people expect. Large-format tiles (600×600 mm or bigger) are dominating Auckland bathroom renovations right now — and for good reason. Fewer grout lines mean less visual clutter, easier cleaning, and a sense of space that smaller tiles can’t match in a compact room.
That said, large tiles aren’t always straightforward. They need a perfectly level substrate, which can mean additional floor preparation — especially in older Auckland homes where timber subfloors have settled over decades. A 1960s bungalow in Mt Eden with an uneven bathroom floor will need screeding before any 600×1200 tile goes down. That’s an extra cost, but skipping it leads to lippage (uneven tile edges) that looks amateur and creates trip hazards.
Smaller tiles (300×300 or smaller) still make sense in certain situations. They’re easier to grade toward a floor waste in a walk-in shower, they handle curved walls better, and they give you more design flexibility. A herringbone pattern in a small-format subway tile can add real character to a compact powder room without making the space feel smaller.
Common layout patterns we see across our Auckland projects:
Stacked (grid): Clean, modern, minimal grout visibility. Works well with large format. Brick bond (offset): The classic subway tile layout. Softens the grid and hides slight size variations between tiles. Herringbone: High visual impact, premium feel — but expect 20–30% more labour time and 10–15% more tile waste from all the angled cuts. Vertical stack: Increasingly popular in 2026. Stacking rectangular tiles vertically draws the eye up and makes low ceilings feel taller.
Colour and Tone — What’s Working in NZ Bathrooms Right Now
Warm neutrals have taken over from the cool grey palette that dominated Auckland bathrooms for the past five years. We’re seeing soft whites, sand tones, warm beige, and greige (grey-beige) across the majority of our 2025 and 2026 projects. These tones work well with the timber vanities, brushed brass tapware, and natural light that Kiwi homeowners are gravitating toward.
Dark tiles aren’t dead — a charcoal or deep green feature wall still makes a strong statement in a well-lit space. But going full dark in a small bathroom without good natural light is a risky move. It can make the room feel smaller and every water spot, soap residue mark, and dust particle becomes visible. If you want drama without the maintenance headache, keep dark tiles to a single feature wall or the shower niche and let lighter tones carry the rest of the room.
One trend that’s sticking around: tonal variation within a single colour family. Rather than uniform flat colour, tiles with subtle veining, texture shifts, or matte-to-satin variation add depth without competing with your fixtures. It’s the difference between a bathroom that photographs well and one that actually feels good to stand in.
Waterproofing Comes Before Tiles — And It’s Non-Negotiable
This is the section most tiling guides skip. Under NZ Building Code Clause E3, every bathroom wet area must be waterproofed with an approved membrane system before any tile goes on. That’s not optional — it’s a legal requirement, and getting it wrong is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make in a renovation.
The waterproofing membrane goes over the substrate (the surface behind your tiles — typically gib or cement board) and must extend:
— At least 1,800 mm above the finished floor level in shower areas (or to the ceiling if the shower rose is mounted high) — A minimum of 150 mm above the finished floor level around the rest of the bathroom — Across the entire floor area with sealed junctions at every wall-floor corner
The membrane must meet AS/NZS 4858 (Wet Area Membranes) standards, and the WMAI Code of Practice for Internal Wet-Area Membrane Systems sets out exactly how it should be applied. Corners need reinforcement tape. Pipe penetrations need specific detailing. None of this is DIY territory.
Why does this matter for your tile choice? Because the tile and adhesive system has to be compatible with the membrane underneath. Some natural stone tiles require specific adhesives that may not bond well with certain membrane products. Your renovation company or tiler should be specifying the full system — membrane, adhesive, tile, and grout — as a compatible package, not mixing and matching from different suppliers.
💡 Quick tip: Waterproofing failures are one of the most common building claims in New Zealand. If your renovation company can’t explain their waterproofing process and supply a Producer Statement (PS3) on completion, that’s a red flag. At Superior Renovations, waterproofing sign-off happens before a single tile is laid.
Floor Tiles vs Wall Tiles — They’re Not Interchangeable
You can use floor tiles on walls, but you should never use wall-only tiles on a bathroom floor. The difference comes down to three things: slip resistance, thickness, and load tolerance.
Floor tiles need a slip-resistant surface. In NZ, this is measured by the P-rating (pendulum test) system. For a residential bathroom floor, you want a minimum P3 rating — ideally P4 if anyone in the household has mobility concerns. Matte and textured finishes naturally offer better grip than polished or gloss tiles. That’s one reason textured stone-look porcelain is so popular right now — it looks premium and performs well underfoot when wet.
Wall tiles can be thinner, lighter, and glossier because they don’t bear weight or get walked on wet. This is actually an advantage — lighter tiles are easier to adhere to vertical surfaces and less likely to slump during installation. If you find a gorgeous polished marble-look tile, it’s probably better suited to your walls than your floor.
What Bathroom Tiling Actually Costs in Auckland
For a standard Auckland bathroom (around 5–8 m² of floor and 15–25 m² of wall tiling), total tiling costs typically land between $4,000 and $12,000+ including tiles, waterproofing, adhesive, grout, and labour. That’s a wide range, so here’s what drives it up or down:
Tile cost: The biggest variable. Budget ceramic at $35/m² vs premium natural stone at $250+/m² creates a massive gap before labour even enters the picture.
Layout complexity: A straight stacked grid is the fastest to install. Herringbone, diagonal, or mixed-format layouts add 20–40% to labour time.
Substrate condition: Older Auckland homes — your character villas, 1970s brick and tile places, anything from the leaky building era — often need significant floor levelling or wall preparation before tiling can start. Budget $500–$1,500 for prep work in an older home.
Waterproofing: A certified membrane system typically adds $1,000–$2,500 depending on bathroom size and the number of wet zones. This isn’t optional — it’s a Building Code requirement.
Walk-in showers: Tiled walk-in showers (replacing a shower box or over-bath setup) are one of the most popular upgrades we do. They also require the most waterproofing, precise floor grading to the drain, and careful tile selection for slip resistance. Expect the shower area alone to account for 30–40% of your total tiling budget.
All figures above are GST-inclusive estimates based on Auckland market rates. Your actual costs will depend on the specific tiles you choose and the condition of your existing bathroom.
Want a clearer picture of what your specific bathroom would cost? Book a free in-home consultation and we’ll walk through the numbers with you — including tile, waterproofing, and installation for your exact space.
💡 Quick tip: Don’t buy tiles based on the per-m² sticker price alone. A $40/m² tile with a complex herringbone layout might cost more to install than a $90/m² tile in a simple grid. Always factor in installation cost when comparing options.
Grout — The Detail Most People Forget Until It’s Too Late
Grout colour can make or break your tile design, and it’s one of the last decisions homeowners make — usually in a rush. That’s a mistake.
A contrasting grout (white tiles with dark grout, or vice versa) emphasises the tile pattern and each individual tile shape. It’s bold, it makes a statement, and it’s trending in 2026 — but it also shows every imperfection in tile alignment. Your tiler needs to be precise.
A matching grout (same tone as the tile) creates a seamless, monolithic look. It’s more forgiving of minor installation variances and makes the room feel larger. For most Auckland bathroom renovations, we recommend a tone-matched grout as the safer long-term choice — especially in family bathrooms that take daily punishment.
Whatever colour you choose, make sure you’re using an epoxy-based grout in wet areas. Standard cement grout is porous, absorbs moisture, and will stain or grow mould over time — no matter how well you seal it. Epoxy grout costs more upfront but saves years of scrubbing and regrouting. In a shower recess, it’s the only sensible option.
2026 Tile Trends We’re Actually Seeing in Auckland
Trends come and go, but some of what we’re seeing in our current Auckland projects has real staying power:
Stone-look porcelain: Travertine and limestone effects remain the most requested tile finish across our bathroom projects. The technology has improved dramatically — you’d struggle to tell the difference from real stone at arm’s length, and maintenance is a fraction of the effort.
Textured matte finishes: Gloss tiles are fading. Matte and textured surfaces feel more natural, hide water spots better, and offer improved slip resistance. They also photograph better — which matters if you’re ever selling.
Warm whites over cool whites: The blue-toned bright white bathroom is giving way to warmer off-whites, creams, and bone tones. These warmer palettes work particularly well in Auckland homes with timber floors and natural light — they feel connected to the rest of the house rather than clinical.
Feature walls with texture, not colour: Instead of a loud coloured accent wall, the move is toward textured tile in the same colour family as the rest of the bathroom. Think a fluted or ribbed tile behind the vanity in the same warm white as the surrounding walls. Subtle, but it gives the room depth.
Larger formats, fewer grout lines: 600×1200 mm wall tiles and 600×600 mm floor tiles are now standard in mid-range Auckland renovations. The visual impact of fewer grout joints is significant, especially in smaller bathrooms.
How to Get Your Tile Selection Right — The Short Version
After working across hundreds of Auckland bathrooms — from compact Ponsonby villas to large Howick family homes — here’s the process that consistently produces results homeowners are happy with years later:
Start with the floor. Your floor tile choice drives everything else. Pick a floor tile with the right slip rating, the right format for your room size, and a colour you can live with long term. Then select wall tiles that complement it.
Choose materials before colours. Decide porcelain vs ceramic vs stone first. Each material has its own maintenance profile, price band, and installation requirements. Colour comes second.
Get physical samples. Online images lie. Screens distort colour. Always view tile samples in your actual bathroom under the actual lighting conditions — natural daylight and whatever artificial lighting you use at night. A tile that looks warm beige under showroom LEDs might read pink under your bathroom’s fluorescent light.
Think about resale. If you’re planning to sell within five years, stick to neutral tones and timeless formats. Bold trends date quickly. A well-executed neutral bathroom adds value; a dated trend statement subtracts it.
Brief your renovation company on the full picture. Your tile selection isn’t isolated — it connects to waterproofing, adhesive systems, grout, underfloor heating, and fixture placement. A good renovation team manages all of this as one system. That’s the approach we take at Superior Renovations — our design team works with you on tile selection as part of the full bathroom design, not as an afterthought.
Ready to Start Your Bathroom Renovation?
Choosing tiles is one piece of the puzzle. The right renovation partner handles the waterproofing, substrate preparation, design coordination, and installation quality that turns a tile selection into a bathroom you’ll enjoy for the next 15–20 years.
Book a free in-home consultation with Superior Renovations. We’ll walk through your bathroom, discuss what you’re after, and give you a clear picture of costs and timeline — no obligation.
28 Small Kitchen Design Ideas for Auckland Renovations
Quick answer: To get small kitchen design ideas that actually work in Auckland, focus on a light tonal palette, full-extension drawers, ceiling-height cabinetry, and layered lighting — most small kitchen renovations sit between $26,000 and $80,000 depending on whether the layout stays put or walls move.
In an Auckland villa kitchen at the back of the house, or a brand-new townhouse in Hobsonville with a kitchen tucked along one wall, the question is the same: how do you make a small kitchen design work without a full architectural rebuild? The 28 ideas below come from completed Superior Renovations projects across Auckland — Parnell, Greenlane, Mangere Bridge, Mt Eden, Avondale, Bucklands Beach. They cover colour, storage, layout, appliances, and the small visual tricks that make a tight kitchen feel less tight. Read them as a working list, not a prescription. The point is to find the three or four that suit your home and your budget.
One upfront note: we’re a full-renovation company based at 16B Link Drive, Wairau Valley. Small kitchens are usually one room of a larger renovation we’re doing — full house renovation, addition, character home work — where the trades (builder, electrician, plumber, tiler, painter) need to be coordinated under one project manager. If you only need new cabinetry in the same footprint, see the honest answer in the renovate-vs-cabinetry section below.
How to make a small Auckland kitchen feel bigger
The fastest gains in a small kitchen are visual, not structural. These five ideas don’t move a single wall. They change the way the room reads.
1. Choose a light, neutral colour palette
Light surfaces bounce daylight; dark surfaces absorb it. In a 6–10 m² Auckland kitchen with one or two windows, that difference is the gap between a room that feels like a cave and a room that feels open. Warm off-whites and soft greys are the workhorse palette — think the Dulux or Resene neutral families, used on walls, cabinetry and ceiling together so the eye doesn’t hit a colour change every metre. Save the contrast for the splashback or a single accent. A kitchen painted entirely in one tonal family will read as 20–30% larger than the same kitchen with three competing colours.
💡 Quick tip: take a colour sample home and stick it to the wall for 48 hours. Auckland’s afternoon light shifts dramatically — a white that reads warm at 11am can read grey by 4pm.
2. Match cabinets to walls to remove the visual break
Most small kitchens lose the spatial fight at the colour join between cabinetry and wall. The eye registers the break, and the room divides into “kitchen zone” and “everything else.” Specify cabinetry in the same colour family as the walls — or the same colour, if you’re feeling brave — and the kitchen reads as part of the room rather than a stand-alone object inside it. This works best in open-plan layouts where the kitchen sits inside a living space. If the kitchen is enclosed, the trick is weaker but still useful for the upper cabinetry, which is what sits at eye level.
3. Maximise natural light with bigger windows or a skylight
A skylight above a galley kitchen does more for the perceived size of the room than any cabinetry decision. In an Auckland villa with original sash windows, the kitchen is often the darkest room in the house because it’s at the back, north-facing windows have been blocked by extensions, and the ceiling is low. A 600 × 600 skylight over the bench costs $2,500–$5,500 installed (including framing, flashing and the consent that comes with cutting a roof). It’s the single highest-impact item on this list if your current kitchen is dark. If a skylight isn’t possible, enlarging a window over the sink is the next move — even an extra 300 mm of glass height changes the room.
💡 Quick tip: if your kitchen sits in the south-facing back-of-villa configuration that’s common in Mt Eden and Grey Lynn, a skylight is almost always worth the consent cost. The room never gets direct sun from a wall window.
4. Layer your artificial lighting
Small kitchens get this wrong almost universally. One bright ceiling pendant, glaring straight down, casting shadows under the upper cabinets onto the bench where you’re chopping. The fix is three layers: recessed downlights for the room, under-cabinet LED strips for the bench (this is the layer most kitchens lack), and a pendant or two over the island or breakfast bar for warmth. Under-cabinet LED is cheap — $200–$500 in materials — and changes the usability of a small kitchen at night. Specify dimmable on at least the pendants and the downlights so you can drop the room down for dinner.
5. Use larger floor tiles to reduce grout lines
This one feels counter-intuitive: bigger tiles in a smaller room. The reason is grout. Every grout line is a visual break, and a small kitchen tiled in 300 × 300 squares has twice as many breaks as the same kitchen in 600 × 600. The eye stops counting tiles and starts reading the floor as a continuous surface, which makes the room read as larger. 900 × 600 rectangular porcelain in a stack-bond pattern is the current go-to for Auckland kitchens — looks contemporary, sits well under both modern and character home cabinetry, and large-format porcelain has come down in price enough that it’s no longer a luxury spec.
“Matching cabinetry to wall colour is the cheapest spatial trick we have. In a Mt Eden galley we did last year, the same cabinetry in a warm grey reads about 30% wider than it would have in white. The eye stops registering the join.” — Dorothy Li, Design Manager, Superior Renovations
Storage solutions that turn cramped into clever
The single biggest reason a small kitchen feels small is that it stores its things badly. These six small kitchen design ideas are about getting the same gear to fit better.
6. Replace cupboards with full-extension drawers
Standard cupboards are a waste of space in a small kitchen. Whatever sits at the back of the cupboard becomes a lost cause — you’d rather buy a new one than dig past three roasting pans to find it. Full-extension drawers fix this completely. You pull the drawer out, you see everything, you grab what you need. Soft-close runners are standard from any decent cabinetmaker now and add maybe 10–15% to the cost of the cabinetry. For a small kitchen, that’s the best money you’ll spend.
💡 Quick tip: deep base drawers (300–400 mm) work better for pots than two shallow drawers stacked. The deep drawer lets you stand a 28cm pot upright without stacking pans on top of it.
7. Build cabinetry to the ceiling
The gap between the top of a standard wall cabinet and the ceiling is usually 200–400 mm. In a normal-sized kitchen that gap is wasted but tolerable. In a small kitchen it’s lost storage you can’t afford. Take the upper cabinetry all the way up. The top row stores things you use twice a year — Christmas platters, the slow cooker, the bread maker — and you climb on a step stool to get them. The visible surface in the kitchen drops by 15–20% because the cabinetry no longer collects dust on top and looks unfinished.
8. Add floating shelves at the right scale
Floating shelves are everywhere in design magazines, and most of them don’t work in real kitchens. The shelves are too shallow, too short, too high, or styled with objects that never come down. Done right, floating shelves replace one bank of wall cabinets and give the room visual relief — the walls stop looking like a solid line of cabinet doors. The rule is: every item on the shelf must be something you actually use weekly — mugs, plates, glasses, the salt and pepper. If it’s decorative, it’s wrong.
9. Use magic corners and pull-out trolleys for awkward cabinets
Every L-shape kitchen has a dead corner where two runs of cabinetry meet. Standard cabinetry treats this corner as a black hole. Magic corners (sometimes called magic corner pull-outs or LeMans units) are sprung trolley systems that pull the back of the corner out into the open when you swing the door. You go from 30% usable corner storage to 95% usable. They’re not cheap — $400–$900 per unit installed depending on the brand — but in a small kitchen the corner is too valuable to leave broken.
💡 Quick tip: magic corners pay for themselves in an L-shape under 8 m². In a larger kitchen, a standard corner carousel or lazy susan does most of the same job for half the cost.
10. Install sliding pantry doors
A hinged pantry door swings into the kitchen and steals 600 mm of clearance every time it opens. In a galley layout, that clearance is the only walking space you have, which means the pantry door is closed every time you’re cooking. Sliding pantry doors solve this in tight kitchens — they run on a top track, take up zero floor swing, and let you keep the pantry open while you’re working. Specify them in the same finish as the rest of the cabinetry so they disappear into the run.
11. Use magnetic strips and tool walls instead of drawers
Knives, scissors, peelers, kitchen shears, metal spice tins — these all live in drawers in most kitchens, where they collect together at the bottom and slide around when you open them. Mount a magnetic strip on the splashback above the bench and they live within reach, off the bench surface, out of drawers entirely. The bench gets clearer, the drawer gets smaller, the kitchen functions faster. The same idea works for a pegboard tool wall if you’d rather hang utensils than stick them to a magnet.
Layout choices that make a small kitchen work harder
Storage and colour are surface fixes. Layout is the structural one. These four ideas are about the geometry of the room — which is also where Superior Renovations earns its keep, because changing a layout usually means moving a wall, relocating plumbing, and coordinating four or five trades through a consent process.
12. Galley layout — for long, narrow spaces
The classic Auckland villa kitchen is a long narrow rectangle at the back of the house. The galley layout — two parallel runs of cabinetry with a corridor between them — was made for this shape. Sink and prep on one side, cooktop and pantry on the other. The work triangle stays tight, the cook can pivot between sides without walking. The clearance between the two runs needs to be at least 1,000 mm — any less and two people can’t pass; any more and you’re walking too far between sides. Galley works because it doesn’t fight the room’s geometry.
💡 Quick tip: the 1,000 mm minimum is for single-cook kitchens. If two people cook together regularly, bump the galley clearance to 1,200 mm so the dishwasher and oven doors don’t collide when both are open.
13. Single-wall layout — for very small footprints
In an apartment kitchen or a tiny back-of-villa space under 5 m², a single-wall layout is often the only one that works. Everything on one wall, the rest of the room left as open floor or living space. The trade-off is bench space, which becomes precious. Pair a single-wall kitchen with a mobile island or a fold-out prep surface (Idea 25) to compensate. Single-wall kitchens also pair well with European laundries hidden inside a cabinet at the end of the run.
14. Add an island that doubles as storage and dining
An island isn’t always possible in a small kitchen, but where there’s a metre of clearance to spare, an island earns its space three ways: extra bench for prep, extra storage underneath, and seating for two or three so the dining table can shrink or disappear. The island doesn’t need to be big — 1,200 × 700 is plenty. Storage on both sides of the island is the trick: shallower cabinets facing the seating side for cookbooks and serving ware, deeper cabinets facing the cook side for pots and the dishwasher. Our Wairau Valley showroom kitchen at 16B Link Drive has exactly this setup — worth a visit if you’re trying to picture it.
15. Break the wall to open the kitchen to your living space
This is the single biggest move on the list, and the one that requires the most planning. Most small Auckland kitchens feel small because they’re cut off from the dining and living rooms by a wall that was there when the house was built in 1925, 1965 or 1985. Removing that wall — even partially — changes everything. The kitchen borrows light, sightlines and air from the next room, and the cook joins the household instead of working in solitary confinement.
Important note: if the wall is load-bearing, you’ll need a structural engineer, a building consent, an LBP-supervised build, and a beam to carry the load above. That’s where a full-renovation company matters — the trades, the engineering, the consent and the build all need to run as one project, not five.
Smart appliances and fixtures for small kitchens
Appliances are the next round of decisions. The brand matters less than people think; the size and the integration matter more.
16. Compact two-burner induction cooktops
A standard 600 mm four-burner cooktop is overkill for a household of two or even three. A 300 mm or 400 mm two-burner induction cooktop frees up 200–300 mm of bench either side, which in a small kitchen is the difference between having room to chop and not. Induction also runs cooler than gas or ceramic, so you can stand closer to the cooktop without the bench heating up. If you cook for larger groups occasionally, pair the smaller cooktop with a portable single burner that goes back in the drawer.
17. Slim profile or integrated appliances
The dishwasher and the fridge are the two biggest space-eaters in a small kitchen. A standard 600 mm dishwasher and a 700 mm side-by-side fridge consume 1,300 mm of run on their own. A slimline 450 mm dishwasher does the same daily wash for a 2–3 person household, and a column fridge (taller and narrower) gives the same volume in less floor footprint. Integrated appliances — clad in the same finish as the cabinetry — also visually shrink the kitchen because the eye reads one continuous run instead of three appliances and a cabinet.
💡 Quick tip: integrated panels add roughly $300–$600 per appliance over a freestanding equivalent. Worth it on the dishwasher and fridge; rarely worth it on the oven, which is already a feature of the kitchen.
18. Install a large single bowl sink
The double bowl sink had its moment. In a small kitchen, it’s the wrong choice. Each bowl is too small to wash a baking tray or a roasting pan, and the divider in the middle is wasted space. A single bowl sink — at least 500 mm wide and 200 mm deep — handles everything from a single mug to a full oven tray, and stays out of sight under the bench profile. Specify it under-mounted so the bench wipes straight into the sink and the silicon line that catches grime in a top-mount sink doesn’t exist.
19. No-handle cabinetry for visual cleanness
Handles are a visual interruption. In a kitchen with eight or ten cabinets, that’s eight or ten interruptions. No-handle cabinetry — either push-to-open or with a routed J-pull on the top edge of the door — reads as a single clean surface, and in a small kitchen that calm makes the room feel less busy. The trade-off is that push-to-open mechanisms can be temperamental over time if the cabinetry isn’t perfectly hung. Routed J-pulls are the more reliable option for households with kids.
Visual tricks that make small kitchens feel open
These four ideas are pure visual cheating. They don’t add storage or change layout. They change the way the room reads.
20. Glass-fronted cabinets for depth
A wall of solid cabinet doors feels heavier than a wall with one or two glass-fronted cabinets in the run. The glass admits a fragment of background — a coloured plate, a stack of glasses — and the eye reads depth where it would otherwise read a flat plane. Specify glass on the upper cabinetry only, and only on cabinets storing things you’d be happy to have on display. The clutter cabinet (the one with the lunchboxes and the cereal) stays solid.
21. Mirror or glass splashback
The splashback is the only surface in the kitchen that sits at eye level on a wall. Make it work: a mirror splashback doubles the perceived width of a galley kitchen, and a back-painted glass splashback in a light colour bounces daylight back into the room. Mirror splashbacks need to be toughened glass with a heat rating if they’re behind a cooktop. Some homeowners find them too literal — they don’t like seeing themselves while cooking — but in a tight kitchen the spatial gain is significant.
💡 Quick tip: back-painted glass in a warm white is the safer choice than a mirror — same daylight bounce, no reflection of yourself mid-cook. Costs about the same per square metre installed.
22. Bi-fold windows above the sink
A bi-fold window opens the kitchen onto a deck, a courtyard or a garden, and on a summer evening turns the window itself into a serving hatch. The kitchen suddenly has twice the footprint because the outside has joined in. Bi-fold windows above a sink need careful detailing for waterproofing — the sill takes water during rain and the seal at the open edge has to drain outward — but the spatial result is dramatic for the cost.
23. Textured feature wall
A single feature wall in a small kitchen — textured tile, V-groove panelling, exposed brick, a strong wallpaper — gives the eye somewhere to land and stops the room reading as a uniform box. The other walls stay calm. Don’t try to make every surface a feature; the wall that gets the texture is usually the one without cabinetry, often behind a dining nook or breakfast bar. The texture adds depth without stealing floor space.
Design touches that add personality without clutter
The last five ideas are details. Small enough to retrofit into an existing kitchen, small enough to fold into a bigger renovation as a finishing layer.
24. Recessed niche shelves
A 200 mm deep niche carved into the splashback wall, lit with a strip of warm LED at the top edge, holds the spice jars, the olive oil, the everyday salt. It clears 200 mm of bench depth — a meaningful gain in a small kitchen — and gives the splashback a focal point. Best done as part of a renovation where the wall is open anyway; harder to retrofit without making a mess.
25. Fold-down or pull-out prep stations
The bench that disappears when you’re not using it. A wall-mounted fold-down table, or a pull-out chopping board hidden under the bench, gives you working surface on demand without consuming permanent floor space. Best paired with a single-wall kitchen layout where the bench is genuinely short. A fold-down 800 × 400 surface seats two for breakfast, then folds away by 8.30 am.
26. A rolling kitchen cart for flex space
The cheapest, most reversible idea on this list. A timber-and-steel rolling cart on lockable castors gives you extra bench while you’re cooking, parks against a wall when you’re not, and can move into the dining room as a drinks station when you’re entertaining. $300–$800 from a furniture store, and it goes with you when you move. Worth doing before you commit to a renovation — sometimes it’s the only fix you need.
27. Bring nature in
A small herb wall above the bench — three or four pots of basil, mint, parsley — softens what is otherwise a hard room. So does a single timber accent in an otherwise painted kitchen: a strip of rimu or oak as a shelf, a butcher’s block end on the island, a timber-fronted drawer in a run of laminate. Don’t overdo it; small kitchens punish busy. One timber moment, one plant moment, and the room warms up.
28. Contrasting countertop and flooring
The last visual trick. A light bench against a darker floor, or a darker bench against a paler floor, gives the room horizontal stripes that make it read as wider than it is. The contrast doesn’t have to be dramatic — a warm white engineered stone bench against a mid-tone oak-look floor does the job. The error is matching them too closely: the room collapses into one tone and feels smaller, not larger.
Real small kitchen renovations we’ve delivered in Auckland
Three completed Superior Renovations projects — different suburbs, different home types, different briefs. Each one shows what a few of the ideas above look like in practice.
Parnell townhouse — relocating the kitchen for a small-footprint win
This central Parnell townhouse came to us with a kitchen squeezed into the wrong end of an open-plan living space. The original layout cut the cook off from the dining table and left almost no bench. We moved the kitchen from the left wall to the right, extended the cabinetry down the dining wall as integrated storage, and added a deep single-bowl sink under a new window. The kitchen footprint stayed the same — the layout did the work. Budget range: $55,000–$70,000.See the full Parnell project →
Greenlane — opening up a closed 1960s kitchen
Joanna and Steve’s Greenlane home had a closed-off kitchen typical of its era — a small room with one door in and one door out, separated from the living space by a non-load-bearing wall. We took the wall out, built a breakfast bar across the new opening, and used the bar as both extra prep space and the dividing line between kitchen and dining. The room reads now as roughly twice the size it used to, because the eye stops at the back of the dining room instead of at the kitchen wall. Budget range: $48,000–$62,000.See the full Greenlane project →
Mangere Bridge — a full-renovation kitchen with floating shelf storage
This Mangere Bridge kitchen was a single-wall layout that needed more storage without a footprint change. We added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, floating shelves on the wall opposite the run, and an under-mounted single-bowl sink. The shelves became the focal point of the room — coloured mugs, pottery, cookbooks — and the upper cabinets stored everything that didn’t earn display space. Budget range: $32,000–$45,000.
“The Parnell townhouse came to us as a corridor kitchen — the bench was on the wrong wall. Moving it across, putting the sink under a new window, did more than swapping cabinetry ever could. Layout is where small kitchens win or lose.” — Alison Yu, Designer, Superior Renovations
How much does a small kitchen renovation cost in Auckland?
Honest answer with ranges. Auckland small kitchen renovations sit in three bands depending on what you’re actually changing.
Band 1: $26,000–$45,000 — like-for-like with new cabinetry and finishes. The kitchen stays in the same footprint. New cabinetry, new benchtop, new appliances, new splashback and floor. No walls move, no plumbing relocates. This is where most small kitchen projects through a full-renovation company sit, with the lower end matching the Auckland average for a mid-range kitchen renovation.
Band 2: $45,000–$70,000 — modest layout changes. The sink moves, a window enlarges, the cooktop swaps walls, perhaps a small section of non-structural wall comes out. Plumbing and electrical relocations bring extra trades into the project, and a building consent is sometimes required depending on what’s moving (see the next section).
Band 3: $70,000–$110,000+ — structural change. A load-bearing wall comes out, a beam goes in, the kitchen extends into a former dining room or new addition. This is where the consent process, the engineer, the LBP supervision and the trade coordination all earn their fees. A small kitchen on paper, but a full-renovation project in reality.
💡 Quick tip: small kitchens save money on cabinetry and material volume — a 6 m² kitchen needs roughly half the cabinetry of a 12 m² one. They don’t save on labour. Trades still need to come, still need a project manager, still need the same coordination time. That’s why a small kitchen rarely costs less than the band 1 floor through a full-renovation company.
Where the wider construction market sits matters too. [VERIFY: Cordell’s Construction Cost Index — June 2025 quarter 0.6% rise, annual rate 2.7%; QV CostBuilder Nov 2025 — 0.5% three-month, 1.1% annual; 2020–2024 cumulative rise of ~38%.] Construction cost inflation in NZ has cooled significantly in 2025, which means budgeting a renovation in 2026 is more predictable than it has been since 2019.
To work out where your project lands, run the numbers through our kitchen renovation cost calculator — it sets out the cost bands by scope so you can see what a $35K kitchen looks like versus a $75K one before you commit to anything.
“Most homeowners underspend on the layout change and overspend on the appliance brand. Layout drives resale value. The sticker on the oven doesn’t.” — Eunice Qin, Designer, Superior Renovations
When does a small kitchen renovation need building consent?
The short answer: it depends what you’re moving, not how big the kitchen is. A small kitchen renovation in the same footprint usually doesn’t need a building consent. A small kitchen renovation that moves the plumbing across the room, removes a wall, or adds new sanitary fixtures usually does.
Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004 exempts certain low-risk work from needing a building consent. The relevant exemptions for kitchens are minor non-structural alterations (replacing cabinetry, painting, retiling), like-for-like fixture replacement (swapping a tap or sink in the same place), and cosmetic work that doesn’t affect the structure, fire safety, or weathertightness of the home. The trades doing the plumbing and electrical still need to be licensed under the Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying Act and the Electricity (Safety) Regulations — that requirement doesn’t go away just because a building consent isn’t required.
Consent is required when:
A load-bearing wall is being removed (always)
Plumbing is being relocated to a new wall, or new fixtures are being added
The kitchen ventilation is being routed through a new wall penetration or roof
A new window or skylight is being installed
The work crosses the threshold into Restricted Building Work, which requires LBP design and supervision
Important note: Auckland Council fees for residential building consents are set on a project-value basis. For a project valued between $20,000 and $99,999 — which covers most small kitchen renovations requiring a consent — the base fee plus processing deposit sits at around $2,870 in the current 2025/26 schedule, with additional inspection fees layered on depending on the number of inspections needed. [VERIFY against current Auckland Council fee schedule before publish.]
What we do as a full-renovation company is run the consent process for you. You don’t lodge the application; we do, with our LBP designer producing the consent drawings and the Records of Work submitted at sign-off. That’s the difference between hiring a cabinetmaker and hiring a renovation company — the cabinetmaker isn’t taking on the consent risk.
Should you renovate, or just replace the cabinetry?
An honest section that doesn’t fit the rest of this article. If your kitchen layout works, the plumbing is fine, the floor is sound, and what you actually want is new cabinetry and a new benchtop in the same footprint — you don’t need a full renovation. You need a cabinetmaker.
The full-renovation model pays for itself when there are multiple trades to coordinate, walls to move, consents to manage, or an entire room being reworked. If none of that applies, the renovation overhead — project management, the engineer, the consent fees, the trades you don’t need — adds cost you won’t recover at resale. For cabinetry-only work, our sister brand Little Giant Interiors’ small kitchen design guide is the better starting point — they design, manufacture and install custom cabinetry in their own Auckland factory, and you’d manage the other trades yourself (or none, if the cabinetry is genuinely all that’s changing).
Where Superior Renovations comes in is the second case: when the wall needs to come out, when the layout has to change, when the kitchen is part of a wider renovation, when you’d rather not coordinate a builder, a plumber, an electrician, a tiler and a painter yourself. Same group, different jobs. The choice between them is really a choice about scope.
Ready to talk about your small kitchen renovation?
If your project is more than cabinetry — if the layout has to change, if the wall has to move, if you’d rather have one project manager coordinating every trade instead of chasing five contractors yourself — we’d love to talk. Book a free, no-obligation in-home consultation and we’ll come out, look at the space, talk through what’s possible, and give you an honest read on scope and budget before you commit to anything.
How much does a small kitchen renovation cost in Auckland?
Small kitchen renovations in Auckland typically range from $26,000 to $45,000 for like-for-like work (new cabinetry, benchtop, splashback and appliances in the same footprint), $45,000 to $70,000 for modest layout changes such as moving the sink or enlarging a window, and $70,000 to $110,000-plus when load-bearing walls come out or the kitchen extends into another room. Final pricing depends on cabinetry spec, appliance choice and whether a building consent is required.
Do I need a building consent for a small kitchen renovation?
Most small kitchen renovations don't need a building consent if the work is like-for-like in the same footprint — cabinetry, benchtop, splashback, painting and swapping fixtures in their existing positions are exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. Consent is required when a load-bearing wall is removed, plumbing is relocated to a new wall, ventilation cuts a new roof penetration, or a new window or skylight is added. Auckland Council fees for residential consents in the $20,000 to $99,999 project-value band sit around $2,870 base.
How long does a small kitchen renovation take?
A like-for-like small kitchen renovation in Auckland typically takes four to six weeks on site once demolition begins, with another four to eight weeks of design and cabinetry lead time beforehand. Projects involving layout changes or wall removal run six to ten weeks on site. Consent processing through Auckland Council adds another six to eight weeks before work can start. Realistic end-to-end timeframe from first consultation to handover is three to six months.
What's the best layout for a small kitchen?
In an Auckland villa or apartment kitchen under 10 square metres, a galley layout (two parallel runs of cabinetry with at least 1,000mm clearance between) gives the most efficient work triangle. For very small footprints under 5 square metres, a single-wall layout paired with a mobile island or fold-out prep surface works best. L-shape layouts work when the kitchen sits in a corner of an open-plan living space — magic-corner pull-outs make the dead corner usable.
Can I knock down a wall to open up my small kitchen?
Yes, but the process depends on whether the wall is load-bearing. Non-load-bearing walls can be removed without a building consent in most cases, though consent is still required if removal affects fire safety or weathertightness. Load-bearing walls always require a structural engineer, a building consent, an LBP-supervised build, and a beam or lintel to carry the load. Expect to add $8,000 to $25,000 for the structural work on top of the kitchen renovation itself.
How do I make a small kitchen feel bigger without renovating?
Three changes that don't require consent or trades: paint the cabinetry and walls in the same light tonal family (warm off-whites and soft greys work best in Auckland's variable light), add under-cabinet LED strip lighting to remove shadow lines on the bench, and replace upper cabinet doors with glass-fronted ones to add visual depth. A rolling island cart adds flexible bench space without permanent install.
Should I use light or dark colours in a small kitchen?
Light tonal colours read as larger in small kitchens — warm off-whites, soft greys and pale neutrals bounce daylight and reduce visual breaks. Dark colours work as a single accent (an island, a splashback, a feature wall) but shouldn't dominate the cabinetry in a kitchen under 10 square metres. The bigger win is keeping cabinetry and walls in the same colour family so the eye doesn't register a join between cabinet and wall.
What size dishwasher fits a small kitchen?
A slimline 450mm dishwasher fits most small Auckland kitchens and handles the daily wash for a two-to-three-person household. Standard 600mm dishwashers consume 150mm of additional cabinetry run that small kitchens usually can't afford. For one or two-person households, an integrated 450mm drawer dishwasher under the bench frees up the equivalent of a small cupboard. Choose integrated panels matching the cabinetry for visual continuity.
Is it worth adding an island to a small kitchen?
An island earns its space in a small kitchen when there's at least 1,000mm of clearance around all sides — anything less and the kitchen becomes harder to use, not easier. A compact 1,200 x 700mm island adds prep bench, two-sided storage, and seating for two or three, which can let the dining table shrink or disappear. In kitchens under 10 square metres, a mobile island cart on castors is usually the smarter call.
Should I hire a renovation company or just a cabinetmaker?
Hire a cabinetmaker when the layout works, the plumbing stays put, and what you actually want is new cabinetry and a benchtop in the same footprint — adding renovation-company overhead to a cabinetry-only job adds cost you won't recover. Hire a renovation company when walls have to move, layout changes, consents are required, or the kitchen is one room of a larger renovation. The split between Superior Renovations and our sister brand Little Giant Interiors reflects exactly that scope difference.
Further Resources for your small kitchen renovation
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
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If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen in Auckland, the first question is almost always the same: what’s it going to cost? At Superior Renovations, we know that every home is different — and so is every budget. This guide breaks down kitchen renovation costs in NZ, with a specific focus on Auckland, so you can plan with a clear head rather than an optimistic guess.
We’ll cover the stages of a full renovation, the hidden costs that catch people out, and what the numbers actually look like at different price points. We’ve also included our Kitchen Cost Calculator NZ so you can run your own numbers.
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A full kitchen renovation isn’t just swapping out cabinets. It’s a multi-stage process — and each stage affects your budget. Whether you’re in Ponsonby or Papakura, here’s what a complete kitchen overhaul actually involves.
Think of it like a puzzle: every piece has to fit together properly or the whole thing suffers. Based on our experience at Superior Renovations and guidance from Auckland Council, here’s what you’re looking at — and how each stage affects your overall cost.
Planning and Design: This is where your vision becomes a workable plan. You’ll work with a designer — like our Senior Designer Dorothy Li — to map out the layout, workflow, and aesthetic. A 3D render helps you see the space before anything is ordered. Expect $2,000–$5,000 for professional design services in Auckland, depending on complexity. As Dorothy puts it: a well-planned kitchen saves time, money, and stress during the build.
Demolition and Removal: Old cabinets, benchtops, and appliances come out. In older Auckland homes, you’ll sometimes find surprises — outdated wiring being the most common. Demolition typically costs $1,500–$3,000 depending on kitchen size and condition.
Structural Changes: If you want open-plan, walls may need to come down. Load-bearing walls require engineering sign-off and a Building Consent — which adds $500–$2,000 in permit fees before any work starts. Check with Auckland Council early.
Plumbing and Electrical: Moving a sink or adding new lighting is standard in a kitchen reno — but it needs licensed professionals. Budget $2,000–$6,000. EECA guidelines apply for energy-efficient installations. Cut corners here and you’ll regret it.
Flooring and Wall Finishes: From tiles to timber, flooring sets the tone for the whole kitchen. In Auckland, quality materials like ceramic or hardwood run $50–$150 per m². Wall finishes and splashback tiles add another $1,000–$3,000. Our designer Alison Yu makes the point well: choosing durable flooring matters in a busy Auckland kitchen — you’ll thank yourself later.
Cabinets and Benchtops: Cabinets are the backbone of the kitchen — $5,000–$25,000 depending on materials (laminate through to solid timber). Benchtops in granite or engineered stone range from $2,000 to $10,000.
Appliances: A full suite — oven, fridge, dishwasher — runs $3,000–$15,000. Energy-efficient options cost more upfront but save money over time. Consumer NZ has useful guidance on reliability and value.
Finishing Touches: Lighting, handles, and the details that pull it all together. Budget $1,000–$3,000. These are the things people notice — or notice are missing.
Timeline for a full renovation: typically 6–12 weeks for a standard Auckland project, longer if structural changes are involved.
Here’s a summary of the phases and their cost ranges:
Phase
Estimated Cost
Key Considerations
Planning and Design
$2,000–$5,000
Work with a designer for a layout that actually works
Demolition
$1,500–$3,000
Watch for hidden issues in older homes
Structural Changes
$3,000–$10,000
May require Building Consent
Plumbing/Electrical
$2,000–$6,000
Licensed professionals only
Flooring/Walls
$2,000–$6,000
Choose durable, easy-to-clean materials
Cabinets/Benchtops
$7,000–$35,000
Balance quality and budget
Appliances
$3,000–$15,000
Factor in energy efficiency
Finishing Touches
$1,000–$3,000
The details that make it look finished
Our Kitchen Cost Calculator lets you model these costs for your specific project in under a minute.
Get started
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Hidden Costs That Can Derail Your Kitchen Renovation Budget
You’re halfway through a kitchen renovation in your Mount Eden villa — the new island is taking shape — when the builder finds dodgy wiring behind the walls. Budget blown. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Unexpected costs catch Auckland homeowners out more often than you’d think. Here’s what to watch for.
Drawing from our experience at Superior Renovations and guidance from Consumer NZ:
Structural surprises: Knocking down a load-bearing wall can add $3,000–$10,000 for structural reinforcement, per Auckland Council. Our designer Kevin Yang’s advice: always get a structural engineer’s report before touching walls. Fixing a sagging ceiling costs more than the report.
What’s behind the walls: Older homes in Grey Lynn or Remuera regularly turn up asbestos, outdated plumbing, or old wiring. These add $1,000–$5,000 once discovered. A pre-renovation inspection ($500–$1,000) is worth it. Build a 10–15% contingency into your budget — not as an afterthought, but from the start.
Cabinet costs: Budget cabinets warp and wear. Quality options run $5,000–$25,000 depending on materials. Our designer Wendy Chen is direct about this: invest in cabinets that last. They’re the heart of the kitchen and you’ll interact with them every day.
Appliances: A full package — induction cooktop, integrated fridge, dishwasher — can hit $3,000–$15,000, not including installation. EECA recommends energy-efficient models to offset Auckland’s rising power costs over time.
Professional fees and consents: Design fees, contractor costs, and architect fees add $2,000–$10,000. Building Consents for structural changes add $500–$2,000. Don’t try to avoid these — unpermitted work shows up on LIM reports and causes problems at sale time.
Start with a realistic plan. Our Kitchen Cost Calculator NZ factors in everything from demolition to permits, so the numbers you’re working with reflect what Auckland kitchens actually cost.
Hidden Cost
Estimated Cost (NZD)
How to Manage It
Structural Changes
$3,000–$10,000
Engineer’s report before touching walls
Hidden Issues (wiring, plumbing)
$1,000–$5,000
Pre-renovation inspection
Quality Cabinets
$5,000–$25,000
Choose durable materials
Appliances
$3,000–$15,000
Energy-efficient models reduce running costs
Professional Fees and Consents
$2,500–$12,000
Budget for consents and licensed professionals
How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Auckland?
For a standard kitchen renovation in Auckland — new cabinets, benchtops, flooring, and plumbing and electrical work — the typical range is $19,000 to $29,000, not including appliances. Custom kitchens with premium fittings can reach $40,000 or more. Here’s how it breaks down by tier:
Basic ($15,000–$20,000): New laminate benchtops, standard cabinets, basic appliances. Suitable for rental properties or straightforward refreshes on a tight budget.
Mid-range ($20,000–$29,000): Engineered stone benchtops, custom cabinets, energy-efficient appliances. This is where most Auckland homeowners land. Our designer Cici Zou puts it well: mid-range kitchens balance style and practicality — you get a good result without overcapitalising.
High-end ($30,000–$50,000+): Marble benchtops, solid timber cabinets, top-tier appliances. Common in suburbs like Herne Bay and St Heliers.
What drives these costs? The choices you make. Vinyl flooring over hardwood saves thousands. Moving plumbing for an island adds $2,000–$5,000. Building.govt.nz notes that keeping your existing layout is one of the most effective ways to control costs.
Real-world example: Sarah, an Epsom homeowner, chose mid-range materials but put her budget into a quartz benchtop. Total cost: $26,000 including labour and permits.
Renovation Type
Estimated Cost (NZD)
What You Get
Basic
$15,000–$20,000
Laminate benchtops, standard cabinets, basic appliances
Auckland-specific factors: High tradie demand and the cost of living push prices above other NZ regions. Older homes — Devonport villas, Grey Lynn bungalows — often need additional work for outdated wiring or plumbing. EECA recommends energy-efficient fittings to offset long-term power costs, which matter in Auckland.
How to keep costs down: Think about how you actually use your kitchen. If you cook seriously, an island might be worth it. If the kitchen is mostly for quick meals, focus on functional storage upgrades rather than premium finishes. Our designer Alison Yu puts it simply: think about your kitchen daily — that’s what should guide your budget decisions.
Factors That Drive Kitchen Renovation Costs in NZ
Two kitchens in Auckland can have wildly different price tags. Here’s what actually drives the difference.
Think of your kitchen renovation like ordering coffee in Ponsonby — a flat white or a double oat milk latte with all the trimmings. Every choice adds up. Here’s what matters most:
Kitchen size and layout: A small 8m² kitchen in Papakura might cost $15,000. A 20m² open-plan kitchen in St Heliers could hit $35,000. Relocating a sink or adding an island adds $2,000–$5,000 in plumbing and electrical work. Dorothy Li’s advice: stick to your existing layout wherever possible. It’s the single most effective way to control cost.
Materials: Laminate benchtops cost $1,000–$3,000. Quartz or granite runs $5,000–$10,000. Vinyl flooring sits at $50–$80/m², hardwood or tiles at $100–$150. EECA recommends durable, energy-efficient materials — they cost more upfront and less over time.
Appliances: A basic package costs around $3,000. High-end smart appliances can push that to $15,000. Our designer Wendy Chen’s view: choose appliances that suit how you cook, not how you want to cook. Check Consumer NZ for reliability data before you commit.
Structural changes: Load-bearing wall removal costs $3,000–$10,000 plus permits at $500–$2,000, per Auckland Council. Skip the consents and you’ll face problems at sale time.
Labour and professional fees: Auckland tradies are busy and charge accordingly. Expect $2,000–$10,000 for skilled contractors, designers, and project management.
What’s behind the walls: Older Auckland homes regularly turn up plumbing or wiring that needs replacing. A pre-renovation inspection ($500) is cheap insurance against finding out mid-build.
How to prioritise: If you host regularly, invest in the island. If you’re a low-key cook, focus on durable basics and smart storage. Our Kitchen Cost Calculator NZ lets you adjust these variables and see how they affect the total in real time.
Factor
Estimated Cost Impact (NZD)
How to Manage It
Kitchen Size and Layout
$2,000–$10,000
Keep existing layout to save on plumbing and electrical
Materials (Benchtops and Flooring)
$2,000–$15,000
Mid-range materials offer the best durability-to-cost ratio
Appliances
$3,000–$15,000
Energy-efficient models reduce running costs
Structural Changes
$3,000–$10,000
Structural engineer’s report before any wall comes down
Labour and Professional Fees
$2,000–$10,000
Licensed professionals avoid rework costs
Hidden Issues
$1,000–$5,000
15% contingency from the start
About Our Kitchen Cost Calculator
Planning a kitchen renovation in Auckland without a clear cost picture is genuinely difficult. How do you know if you’re budgeting enough for that new benchtop — or about to be caught out by plumbing costs? That’s what our Kitchen Cost Calculator NZ is for. Built specifically for Kiwi homeowners, it gives you a personalised estimate in under a minute.
We built it because renovation costs in Auckland are often opaque. You shouldn’t have to commit to a project without a realistic idea of what it’ll cost. The calculator factors in local labour rates, material costs, and your own preferences — kitchen size, benchtop material, whether you’re making structural changes. The result is a cost breakdown based on what Auckland kitchens actually cost, with a 10–15% variance to reflect the unexpected.
Why use it?
Estimate total costs across all stages — labour, materials, design.
See how specific choices (moving plumbing, premium appliances) affect the budget.
Account for contingencies — particularly relevant in older Auckland homes.
As Kevin Yang, one of our designers, puts it: the calculator is like a roadmap — it shows you where your money’s going before you start.
How accurate is it? It uses average costs from our 10+ years of Auckland kitchen renovations, cross-referenced with data from Auckland Council. It assumes $5,000–$25,000 for cabinets and $2,000–$10,000 for benchtops, depending on materials. It won’t replace a detailed quote from our team — but it’s the right starting point.
What it doesn’t cover: Appliances (these vary too much) and partial renovations.
Real example: Tom, a homeowner in Mt Roskill, used the calculator for a 12m² kitchen with engineered stone benchtops and no structural changes. The result was a $24,000 estimate — which helped him prioritise custom cabinets over an island he didn’t really need.
Component
Estimated Cost Range
Notes
Demolition
$1,500–$3,000
Depends on kitchen size and condition
Cabinets
$5,000–$25,000
Laminate through to solid timber
Benchtops
$2,000–$10,000
Laminate, quartz, or granite
Flooring
$2,000–$6,000
Vinyl, tiles, or hardwood
Plumbing/Electrical
$2,000–$6,000
Higher if relocating fixtures
Permits and Fees
$500–$2,000
Required for structural changes
Superior Renovations has been working on Auckland kitchens for over a decade. The calculator is a free tool that came directly from client feedback — people wanted to understand the numbers before committing to a conversation. It’s a good place to start.
Ready to Get Started?
A kitchen renovation is one of the most impactful things you can do for your home — both in terms of daily liveability and long-term value. Whether you’re hosting in Botany or cooking quick weeknight meals in Mt Eden, the kitchen is where your household actually runs. This guide has given you the framework: what’s involved, what it costs, and what drives the variables. Now it’s time to run your numbers.
Our Kitchen Cost Calculator is the first step — a personalised estimate based on Auckland’s actual market, delivered to your inbox in under a minute. After that, our team is here to talk through the detail, from design through to finishing touches.
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Please note:Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liable for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Auckland?
A full kitchen renovation in Auckland typically runs $19,000–$29,000, depending on materials, size, and scope. Basic renovations start around $15,000; high-end custom kitchens can exceed $40,000. Use our Kitchen Cost Calculator NZ for a figure based on your specific project.
Do I need a Building Consent for a kitchen renovation?
Not always — but if you're making structural changes, like removing a load-bearing wall, a Building Consent is required. Always confirm with your contractor. Unpermitted structural work can create problems when you sell.
What are the biggest cost drivers in a kitchen renovation?
Kitchen size, material choices, appliances, and structural changes are the main variables. Hidden issues like outdated wiring or old plumbing can add $1,000–$5,000. Build a 10–15% contingency into your budget from the start.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
A standard Auckland kitchen renovation takes 6–12 weeks. Structural changes or custom designs extend the timeline. Good planning and clear communication with your team keeps things on track.
Is the Kitchen Cost Calculator free?
Yes — completely free. It's designed to give Auckland homeowners a realistic estimate based on local costs. Results in under a minute, sent straight to your inbox.
This article has been republished to include further content on kitchen renovation trends and top 6 key features that a good kitchen design must include. This recommendation has been made by our in house kitchen designers .
Hey Aucklanders, if you’re dreaming of a kitchen reno that nails modern functionality while feeling warm and inviting for family gatherings or summer barbies, these 26 top trends (with roots in solid ideas that have evolved into 2025) are pure inspiration. From smart tech and eco picks to bold colours and seamless outdoor links, it’s about creating spaces that handle our humid climate, maximise tight sections, and blend practicality with that effortless Kiwi style.
What’s Hot in Kitchen Trends for Auckland Homes Heading into Late 2025?
A lot of these classics are still going strong, updated with fresher twists like more biophilic greens and smarter sustainability. Standouts include:
Smart tech integration → App-controlled lights, motion faucets, and energy-monitoring appliances—perfect for busy whānau cutting bills in spots like Massey or Parnell.
Eco-friendly materials → Recycled composites, induction hobs, and water-saving taps, tying into grants for greener renos.
Dark and bold cabinets → Black or deep tones for drama, with pops of blue or green islands adding personality without overwhelming small spaces.
Streamlined textures → Clean lines, 3D tiles, or rough wood for depth—think Spanish-inspired backsplashes in Stanmore Bay vibes.
Open or broken-plan layouts → Knocking walls for family flow, or zoned areas in Bucklands Beach-style homes.
Which Features Give the Biggest Wins for Functionality and Style?
Quartz benches remain king for durability against our steamy cooking, paired with clever storage like magic corners, tall larders, and multipurpose islands (single or double for big entertainers). Open shelves work wonders in compact units, hardwood or wood-look ceramics hold up well, and vibrant backsplashes or outdoor connections via bi-folds turn your kitchen into the ultimate hub—especially linking to decks for that proper Kiwi barbecue life.
Kitchen renovation trends usually change slightly from year to year with no big changes seen in the coming years. It is easy to change certain elements within your existing kitchen to keep up with the new trends. For example if you have a traditional white kitchen and want a change then you can easily add a pop of colour by adding a vibrant textured backsplash. If you are lacking in storage, then you could easily replace your existing island with a multi-functional kitchen island which could be used as a breakfast bar, storage unit as well as a cooking area.
What a kitchen means today for a family is very different from what they meant in the past. Traditionally kitchens have always been a place for cooking and cleaning only. Kitchens today are a place where most of the family congregates. It is a place that brings the family together whether it is in the form of a breakfast island bar or an open plan kitchen which opens into your living space.
In this article we will discuss the following:
the top 20 newest kitchen renovation trends for 2023
10 trends that you should stay away from in the coming years.
6 Key Features that every good kitchen design must include – Recommended by our Kitchen designers
Here’s what we concluded as the top kitchen renovation trends for 2023
Smart Kitchens
Eco-Friendly Kitchens
Cabinet Colours: Dark Colours Are Finally Here & White Is On Its Way Out!
Streamlined Designs, Materials and Textures
Open plan Kitchens and Broken plan kitchens
Quartz is Still King
Effective Storage Solutions
Open Shelves for Small Kitchens
Kitchens with a bar island for entertainment
Hardwood Flooring is Still the Shining Star but Ceramic Tile is on its Heels
Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands
Double Islands
Ceiling high larders
Backsplash Trends
Connecting With The Great Outdoors
Adding a Pop of Colour
Mix and Match Metals
Steel Hoods
Statement Accessories
Hanging cups, Colourful pans and Colourful Appliances
Welcome with a Sociable Kitchen
Embrace a Wood Resurgence
Layered Lighting
Handle less Designs
Create a Space for a Pantry
Technology advances and changing social dynamics have contributed greatly to the rise of the newest kitchen renovation trends. There is a far bigger focus on open concept homes that revolve around the kitchen so everyone can be together.
As with any modern design trend, clean and simple styles have become favourites for homeowners with natural light becoming an essential aspect of the overall look and function of the kitchen space. There are 3 fundamental things that make a great kitchen design and it doesn’t often change, the three things are:
Functional Layout that works with the given space
Choice of materials/fittings – the quality of these are crucial and you will notice a difference.
Storage – the design and placement is key to make sure you end up with a well-utilized space.
Technology has entered the kitchen in full force and not just in the form of fancy gadgets and appliances. Today, you can have a kitchen with technology integrated into every function and appliance–from the faucets to the fridge to lighting. This is what we call a smart kitchen.
Smart kitchens are an evolving aspect of design. In fact, a lot of kitchens today are built smart from the ground up. For older kitchens, sensors, smart gadgets and other devices can be added to add convenience.
Kitchen renovation trends in Massey: These ‘pop out power outlets’ were installed on the counter top which can be pulled up when needed and pushed back down when not in need
Easy add-ons are motion sense-equipped kitchen faucets that can sense the presence of hands underneath and will come on automatically or try a one-touch feature. Refrigerators that can alert you when your groceries items are running low or a coffee maker programmed to have your coffee ready when you wake up.
There is also a gadget that monitors your eggs, telling you which ones are almost going bad. Do not forget to update your lighting system–allowing you to control all the lights from your smartphone or tablet. Technology integrated kitchens are becoming more popular as homeowners experiment with novel technologies. This is one of the biggest trends going into 2023.
Trend #2. Eco-Friendly Kitchen Design
A growing kitchen renovation trends has been being eco-friendly. As the awareness around sustainability grows, people are getting more conscious about using materials that are environmentally friendly. Taking steps towards sustainability could include having built in recycling bins in the kitchen, installing an induction cook top to reduce energy waste, and installing a 3 in 1 hot water tap.
Hot water tap is a great way of reducing water and energy waste. When boiling water we often boil too much water or use a kettle. When you install an instant hot water tap, you are using just the amount of water you need and less electric energy is being used to get the water to boil. This is also an added convenience to having access to instant boiling water for coffee or food preparation.
Trend #3. Cabinet Colours: Dark Colours Are Finally Here & White Is On Its Way Out!
Although white cabinets are a classic look that can be used in almost any kind of kitchen style, we are slowly starting to see them on the way out! We expect white to start declining in popularity throughout 2023 . To break up the monotony of all-white kitchens, expect to see islands in a variety of different paint colours or wood stain colours. The mixing of finishes creates a needed accent piece and additional pops-of-colour for the brave of heart.
Blue and green will be the most popular shades to add colour to your kitchen. Apart from natural and neutral shades green, emerald, and other earthy tones will also be popular this year.
Kitchen renovation trends in Massey: Our client in Massey wanted black cabinets against white to give a luxurious feel to his kitchen. LED lights were also installed under the cabinet handles to add to the glamour of the kitchen.
Dark kitchen cabinets portray elegance and a deep rich luxurious atmosphere. You must however be careful that the dark accents or cabinets you use does not overpower the room as it could make the room feel perpetually dark or dingy. But more homeowners are getting bolder and opting for a kitchen with dark cabinet colours in 2020. Expect to see tons of black and darker colour shades in the trendiest home of 2020.
Trend #4. Streamlined Designs, Materials and Textures
Cabinets
While styles like farmhouse and mid-century modern are still popular, homeowners are getting more streamlined in their overall aesthetics, designs and alternative materials for kitchens. Simple looks are all about modern clean lines. They will continue to be a huge hit throughout 2023.
Removing upper wall cabinets has become a growing trend in the last few years since it opens up the visual space making the kitchen appear much larger and brighter. It allows you to utilise the countertop space more productively as most people cannot reach the top shelves anyway.
Textures and Materials
A streamlined design does not equate to boring. It simply means that a design which is less cumbersome and more tasteful. Consider using materials with different textures. For example when using open shelving, consider rough cut wood as your material for a natural look or metal tubing for a more industrial look.
Floor tiles in a natural stone or backsplash tiles that are sculpted, beveled, or stacked make for the perfect focal point. These interesting textures are very different compared to the usual polished or glossy finishes we see everywhere. You may even want to consider a ceiling treatment to add another dynamic to your kitchen.
Kitchen renovation in Stanmore Bay: The Spanish tiles installed in this kitchen are a great design element that can be used to enliven a space.
Kitchen renovation in Parnell: We added textured 3D tiles as a backsplash for this client to add character and interest in the kitchen wall
For further ideas on using Tiles as a focal point in a Kitchen
Trend #5. Open plan concept and Broken plan concepts
The open plan concept for kitchens has been a growing trend for many years now. Today’s homes are mostly made of 2 working parents where evenings are the only times that families get together to spend quality time. Open concept kitchens allow families to spend time even if one person is in the kitchen whereas the others in the living. Open plan kitchens are easily achievable by tearing down a few walls that separate the kitchen from the rest of the living space.
An open plan Kitchen: The above picture is an open plan concept as the room is very clearly divided from the living room by a wall and from the dining room with some counters. There are still some breaks in the room which divide the room into specific areas. The above kitchen was renovated by us in Bucklands Beach.
Broken plan kitchens are a trend of the next decade, taking the open plan concept to another level. Imagine a large room which has different zones for living, dining and cooking. These zones are not divided by any half or full walls. This makes an area look more spacious as there is little that is ‘breaking’ the large space or room.
Broken Plan Concept: The above is a good example of a broken plan kitchen. The room is a large space where there are allocated zones for different purposes. However, there are no walls making a specific ‘break’ between the different zones.
Trend #6. Quartz is Still King
For high-end kitchen countertops, quartz still reigns supreme. The material is extremely hardy, can last virtually forever, is a breeze to maintain and is anti-microbial. Granite, the main competitor in the high-end bracket, requires slightly more maintenance.
When quartz countertops first came into the market, the main worry was lack of variety in terms of colours and finishes. But through technological advances, manufacturers can now provide a range of colours and patterns. You can even get quartz finished with elaborate swirls and large veining to imitate other materials like natural stone. These unique styles have become immensely popular.
Kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach: We engineered stone to look like black marble which was then infused with shiny specs to add a touch of luxury for this kitchen renovation
But there is a notable trend toward softer and more neutral colours. More and more homeowners are opting for colours like grey, taupe, creamy or white finishes. This follows the trend towards cleaner styles seen in most home spaces.
While we are still on the topic of countertops, it is important to mention the rising popularity of composite sinks. These are sinks made from the same material as the countertop. This creates a cleaner uniform look and makes cleaning and maintenance much easier. However, it is going to be a tough battle against the still very popular stainless steel, ceramin and Silgranit sinks.
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Trend #7. Effective Storage Solutions
One of the biggest drawbacks with kitchen cabinetry is the unnecessary waste of space. The way the basic shelves and drawers are structured leaves a lot of wasted space. Worst of all, available space is often too small for some of your larger things or the opposite: it’s too wide and does not give you a way to properly and efficiently organize the space.
One of the foundations to a functional kitchen is kitchen storage. If it is inadequate or ineffective, you will be faced with endless frustrations and challenges.
To counter these storage challenges, homeowners are starting to look for better storage solutions within the cabinetry. These can include:
drawer dividers for cutlery & utensils
pull-outs for spices
tray dividers
roll-out trays
magic corners for pots & pans
wastebasket cabinets for garbage and recyclables
deep drawers.
Pull out Rubbish and recycling bins
Custom built Pantry drawers to add convenience and maximise storage
Magic corners to utilise the space in corner cabinets
A different variation of a magic corner to effectively utilise corner space for cabinets
Custom built storage solution for cabinets to store condiments
The most popular storage solutions we have seen with our clients are the ‘magic corners’ as they effectively utilise the wasted space in the corners of the kitchen. The other popular storage solutions have been custom built cabinets with pull out drawers.
While Hidden storage solutions will always remain popular, they are not always feasible in a small kitchen. Small kitchens do not have the space for bulky cabinetry with storage drawers and hence need a different storage solution.
Open shelves for small spaces can provide effective storage solution and can also add a great design element. Following are some of the ways you can maximise storage in an open shelf for a small kitchen:
Use magnetic holders for knives. These can be screwed on to the wall so you do not have a bulky knife holder on your counter top
Laddle hangers and wall spice racks. Small hooks can be installed to hang all your spoons and laddles used for cooking. You can also find smart hangers where you can place your spice bootles.
You can also create a wine glass hanger which would reduce the need for shelves.
Floating open shelves were added to increase storage and add a design element to the kitchen
A great tip is also to buy colourful pots, pans, bowls etc which can be placed in the open shelves. This would create interest and also add a pop of colour to your kitchen.
Trend #9. Hardwood Flooring is Still the Shining Star but Ceramic Tile is on its Heels
Hardwood flooring is still very popular when it comes to kitchen flooring. But the second most popular option, ceramic flooring. Thanks to technology, ceramic flooring now comes in a wide variety of designs, styles and sizes.
For example, you can get ceramic tiles that look exactly like hardwood flooring. So if you want to retain the hardwood look but want a material that is easier to maintain, consider using ceramic tiles. In addition to wood, ceramic tiles can be designed to resemble a range of other materials including natural stone. Even the surface texture is changed to mimic these materials.
In terms of size, you do not have to go for traditional sizing any longer. It seems like the sky is the limit with variety and larger format tiles. You can get single plank tiles that resemble actual wide planks of hardwood once laid down on the floor. Or you can get custom cut tiles to create a uniquely patterned kitchen. Larger tiles make an are look bigger in space as compared to smaller sizes. This is because there are lesser grout lines and the area hence looks less ‘busy’.
Trend #10. Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands are no longer an afterthought or something small to squeeze into the space. They have become the point and the hub of the kitchen. One of the changes emerging is the single level larger sizing, serving multiple uses. Large islands now also have ample shelving below to maximise storage.
In the year 2023 large kitchen islands will become the jack-of-all-trades. They will have storage solutions and would be fitted with various under-counter appliances while also providing seating–serving as a casual dining and/or drinking bar. To accommodate the increased size, we are seeing a tendency for the kitchen island to extend into living room spaces in homes with open plan designs. This ensures the kitchen island can be multi-functional without cluttering up space in the kitchen.
Kitchen renovation in Massey: Kitchen island extending into the living room space to double as a bar that can be used for entertaining
Trend #11. Double Islands
If you have the space, then we would advice you to get two smaller island in your kitchen rather than 1 large island. Having 2 smaller islands improves the flow of the kitchen as well as the ease of movement. Having two separate islands also means that you could use of as a breakfast bar and the other as a counter top for preparation as well as installing a cook top.
Double islands have become a growing trend in the last year and are seen to be on the rise for large kitchen spaces as well as open plan living.
Trend #12. Ceiling high larders
Kitchen is not just a functional space these days. With the rise in open plan kitchens, it has become important to make kitchens aesthetically pleasing along with good functionality. Many people now prefer to have open shelves in their kitchen rather than bulky cabinetry as it makes kitchens look more spacious. Buy some colourful pots and pans and you have a beautiful focal point full of colours and textures.
The same logic applies to larders. The trend in 2023 is seeing a rise in larders that are open and built up to the ceiling. This gives you more storage and will also add a beautiful design aspect to your kitchen. To access the higher shelves on your larder, consider buying a trendy movable ladder that you can rest against your larder.
The above is a great way to built an open larder with trendy storage containers and a larder to access the higher shelves. Add some light within the larder and you have a great focal point for your kitchen.
Trend #13. Backsplash Trends
First things first, subway tiles are out! Okay maybe not completely out, but they are no longer popular in the ‘white brick’ size. People are moving on to larger slabs of tiles with various textures and patterns. Adding a bright and vibrant backsplash will add the much needed character in a neutral kitchen. Neutral patterns with natural texture is another option for those looking for a classic look.
Kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach: Hexagon shaped black and grey textured tiles were added as a backplash to add interest, drama and texture to the kitchen
Another big change we’re seeing in tile backsplashes are their size and the portion of wall they cover. More people now opt for larger tiles to make the area look less ‘busy’. These slabs can be made to look like marble, quartz, wood, copper, stainless steel, glass…. the list goes on forever!
Trend #14. Connecting With The Great Outdoors
As discussed above, open plan living and kitchen has been a popular trend for a while now. In New Zealand we love Bbqs and entertaining our guests outdoors. This way of living in NZ has given rise to the trend of connecting the kitchen/dining area with the deck or outdoor area. Some of our previous clients have also used their outdoors as an extended kitchen area.
This is mostly done by building a covered outdoor area equipped with grills and cooking equipment which can be accessed from the kitchen through french doors.
Trend #15. Adding a Pop of Colour
As mentioned above, white will always be a popular colour for kitchens as it is a versatile colour to work with. In past people have always gone for a traditional look for kitchens with either white surfaces and cabinets or dark wood. The trend has now been changing towards adding colour to otherwise white kitchens.
A sky blue backplash was added to add some colour into a neutral themed kitchen in Papatoetoe
People are now looking at ways to add colour to their kitchens. We spend most of our time in this area of the house, entertaining our friends and family, so why not put our favourite colour in the space? We have and will be seeing this on cabinets, islands, hutches, and feature walls.
The colours predicted for these spaces are inspired by the elements with blues, earthy tones of green and red.
Trend #16. Mix and Match Metals
We get this question a lot: is it okay to mix metals in the kitchen? The answer is YES! Mixing metals adds character in the space, especially if it is done correctly. We will be seeing more of an eclectic style in 2023. Overly matched and coordinated spaces is a trend that is slowly fading. If you love gold fixtures, but don’t want it all over your kitchen, add a soft gold faucet with black or nickel hardware.
Light fixtures can be a completely different metal altogether, while having hints of the same metal you are using elsewhere. These pieces are the finishing touch to the space. Make them stand out! Another way to mix in metals, would be in your furniture selections for kitchen tables chairs or island stools. These can be easily interchangeable when you want to change things up a bit!
Textured metals that are the same colour as other pieces in the kitchen are a nice way of adding a different element, while not getting too crazy.
Trend #17. Steel Hoods
In 2023, we will be seeing homeowners focus on their hood designs. This piece can be a major focal point in the space, especially depending on the layout of the kitchen. Most of the time, we design the space with the range and hood on a wall that is seen from other rooms in the house. Why not make this piece a statement?
The Steel hood above adds a certain drama to the kitchen
Custom steel hoods are a way to add in a breaking point to a long row of wood cabinetry. These are a nice feature, but they do come with a cost. Custom steel hoods can range anywhere from $5-7k, but they sure do make a beautiful addition to your new kitchen, so make sure you budget for this correctly. Let’s get rid of those boring matching stainless hoods and be creative with your space! This is also your chance to add metal as a component to your kitchen.
Trend #18. Natural Wood Tones in Kitchen Design
Stained, treated or imitation wood has been used in kitchens for more than a decade. Natural wood is making a come back in the next year as natural forms of wood brings warmth into a kitchen and gives it a nice rustic feel.
Kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge: Natural wooden counter tops treated with Epoxy Urethin Vinyl to increase durability.
If you have a white toned kitchen then adding either a wooden island, drawers or counter-top will add a vintage charm to your kitchen. In order to increase durability of your natural wood elements in the kitchen simply apply Epoxy Urethin Vinyl Coating on your counter tops. Natural wood however can be used in its true form as a nice rugged looking breakfast bar.
Trend #19. Statement Bronze Accessories for your Kitchen design
Installing statement is a great way to liven your kitchen up and give it a unique design element. Use statement taps and fixtures like brass to give your kitchen a rustic look or industrial look.
Brass sink and tap-ware added for our client to create a rustic look for this kitchen we renovated in Orewa
If you have a kitchen which is mostly designed in neutral and white colours then use black for all your taps, fixtures and cabinet handles to instantly make it a classic black and white kitchen without making any drastic changes.
Rustic looking bronze hanging lights also added to the rustic feature of this kitchen in Orewa
Trend #20 Plate racks, Hanging cups and colourful appliances
As mentioned above, a great way to spruce up you kitchen aesthetics is to bring some colour into the kitchen. If you are not looking for a big change then putting colourful crockery on display is a great idea to add some colour.
The above kitchen looks dramatic and bold due to simple red utensils and black cabinets. The red utensils create a lot of interest to an otherwise monochromatic kitchen.
All you have to do is add some hooks for colourful cups or add a wall mounted plate rack complete with pattered plates to create interest into a drab kitchen.
Another example of adding colour to a white toned kitchen.
If you are not afraid of colour, then add colourful appliances like a SMEG fridges or accessories can add some fun elements to your kitchen without having to renovate.
Trend #21 Welcome With a Sociable Kitchen
One of the kitchen renovation trends 2023 is the use of curved design elements to enhance the ergonomic benefits and functionality of the space. Rounded kitchen islands are becoming popular as they facilitate socialising and movement in open-plan kitchens with multiple entry and exit points. This kitchen renovation trend encourages smooth transition between spaces and is perfect for entertaining guests.
Wood kitchen cabinets are becoming popular and may be part of kitchen renovation trends 2023. Using wood cabinets like walnut or oak kitchen cabinet ideas provides your kitchen with a timeless or classic look. A popular option amongst homeowners.
Trend #23 Layered Lighting
A major kitchen renovation trend 2023 is layered lighting to create a well-designed and functional kitchen. Instead of relying solely on task lighting in specific preparations area, layered lighting will create a more balanced and visually appealing look. This kitchen renovation trend of layering lighting is a key aspect of designing a successful kitchen.
Task Lighting Above Sink
Trend #24 Handle Less Design
The modern kitchen renovation trend 2023 is focusing on multi-functional, open-concept spaces with a minimalistic aesthetic. With the advancement of push-open and close doors, handle less kitchen cabinets are becoming increasingly popular as it provides a sleek and streamlined look. This trend emphasises simplicity, placing emphasis on the detail of cabinetry for a clean, uncluttered look.
Pantry cupboards are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes as they provide a convenient and organised solution for food items. This kitchen renovation trend 2023 emphasises the importance of having all food goods in one central location, instead of scattered around various wall cupboards. This not only makes it easier to keep track of groceries, but also creates a more orgnaised and functional kitchen space.
10 Kitchen Trends to avoid in 2023
It is always a great idea to not renovate your kitchen wholly after one trend. This is because some trends start becoming an eye sore after a time. We mostly recommend our clients to go for classic designs and use elements of upcoming trend to complement the kitchen as opposed to wholly changing the kitchen to suit a ‘current fad’.
We have compiled a list of trends that do not work well anymore and that you should avoid.
Trend #1 Themed Kitchen design
Kitchens that are fully renovated to emulate a certain time period or style can quickly run out of style, leaving you with a kitchen that you no longer like. An example of this would be a kitchen would be a retro themed kitchen. If you like retro styled kitchens then think about perhaps using a few elements from that era in an otherwise classic or modern kitchen.
Trend # 2 Kitchen desks and workstations within a kitchen design
Kitchen desks were very popular a few decades ago. The birth of kitchen desks came from an era where there was no internet or online accessibility of recipes. People used these desks to work on their menu and store recipe books. However, kitchens is a space which is prone to getting messy and you do not want your desk to bear the brunt of it. Re-locate your kitchen desk to another area of the house and instead add an extra pantry in the kitchen area.
Trend # 3 Dark wooden cabinets
Unless you have a large kitchen, dark cabinets can make your kitchen look bulky and cumbersome. It will close the space up and make your kitchen look dated. Opt for a lighter wood to open your space up and add a modern clean touch to your kitchen.
Trend # 4 Over the range microwave
Older kitchens mostly feature a space above the counters for microwaves. Not only is this cumbersome but it is also inaccessible sometimes with food being split or dropped ever so often. Instead, make a space for your microwave which is below eye.
Trend # 5 Tile Counter-tops
Tiled counter-tops may be cheaper compared to other materials but they are not easy to maintain. They are prone to chips and grouting stains which can become unsightly very soon. If marble or granite is not an option for you then try using engineered stone which can be made to look and feel like marble. They are a whole lot easier to clean and maintain.
Trend #6 White Subway tiles
Subway tiles have been used over and over again in the last decade or so. It is almost an overkill to use them when renovating a kitchen. Try glass, acrylic, stone or tile instead. If you do however like the ‘subway’ look then try colourful subway tiles instead so they add pop of colour to your kitchen.
Trend #7 Closed kitchens
As discussed above, closed off kitchens just do not suit our contemporary tastes anymore. Sure there is a pressure to keep your kitchen tidy in an open plan concept however, no one parent or two want to cook the evening away in a closed off kitchen while kids are hanging in the living room.
Trend #8 DIY backsplashes and cabinets
Doing a DIY job of either painting your cabinets or installing them will never give it the finish that you desire. If you are not a professional then stay away from doing a DIY job as it will only give you problems in the future.
Trend #9 Ornate Styles
If you prefer a rustic, classic or traditional kitchen then that is completely okay! Modern kitchens with sleek lines is not everybody’s style. Even if you are after a traditional kitchen, do not go for ornate decorations on cabinets, doors or oddly shaped islands. Ornate designs on wood etc make a kitchen look dates and unappealing. Instead, make the use of colours, wood and other accessories to bring out the traditional style.
Trend #10 Mismatched styles
When you think about renovating your kitchen it is always a good idea to see what the overall feel of your home is. If your home reflects a more classic traditional style then renovating your kitchen to a sleep modern kitchen would make it look like an eye sore. Instead you could have a traditional kitchen with modern elements to still maintain the theme of the rest of your house.
Trend #11 All White Kitchen
Minimalistic kitchen designs are trending, but to avoid a barren look, it’s important to incorporate neutral colours in addition to white. Incorporating colours such as tan, grey and black into a white kitchen can add depth and interest while maintaining a minimalistic aesthetic. This kitchen renovation trend 2023 focuses on simplicity and clean lines, so be sure to avoid having an all white kitchen.
6 Key features to incorporate within your Kitchen Design
There are several features that you can incorporate within your kitchen design when renovating a kitchen for comfort, functionality and aesthetics. A well planned kitchen design includes key features that maximise the space for the lifestyle of the homeowners. The good news is that there are several innovative solutions available today that work within small as well as large spaces. We spoke to our Kitchen designer and she listed the top 5 features that a good kitchen design should include.
#1 Layout is important for a Kitchen design
Deciding a layout of your kitchen will depend on the space available and how much your family uses the kitchen. If your kitchen is a high traffic area with various family members cooking together then your kitchen design should include a substantial amount of bench space. We have listed the most common layouts below:
One walled kitchens
These kitchens are best suited for smaller units or apartments in Auckland where space is limited. Units and apartments mostly feature open plan living. With one walled kitchens you can make a small area look less cumbersome and you get the flexibility of having a small dining area and a nice living room space.
Galley Kitchens
This layout works good for small spaces as well as it is a lean layout which is ideal for 1-2 person households. The galley kitchen layout features two walls or countertops running parallel to each other with a walkway in between. If you do have a small unit and a one wall kitchen does not provide ample space then a galley kitchen is the right type of layout for you. You can also use one of the countertop area as an island with bar stools and skip on a dining table. This will give you extra counterspace as well as an area to eat your meals.
L-Shaped Kitchens
L-shaped kitchens are great when you want to maximise the corner space of your home. L-shaped kitchens work well for small to medium sized homes as they do not make the area look cumbersome. These kitchens consist of countertops that on walls perpendicular to each other. An L shaped kitchen also provides more storage space as you can built additional storage cabinets on the wall above the counter. If you have the space then you can build an additional island which can act as a dining space as well.
U-shaped Kitchens
U shaped kitchens have counters or cabinets in three walls of a kitchen making a U shape. They work best for larger spaces and traditionally have worked best for kitchens that are not open plan. However as more people are leaning towards open plan living concepts, this U-shaped design has evolved to include an island instead of counters on all three walls. The modern version of U-shaped kitchens includes an L shaped kitchen along with an island. This also allows for easy foot traffic throughout the kitchen.
Islands in a Kitchen
As discussed above, it is possible to include islands within most layouts when designing a kitchen. The size of the island should however be in proportion to the space that you are working with. If you do have a one walled kitchens then you are probably working with a small space which means that the island that you install should be sleek and no overcrowd the space.
Peninsular Islands
Peninsular islands can be seen as an extension of an L-shaped kitchen. They are attached to a part of the L shaped kitchen to form a U-shaped kitchen. Below is a great example of an Peninsular island that we designed in a full kitchen renovation in Bucklands Beach.
Peninsular island in Bucklands Beach which provides our client with extra counter space as well as a breakfast nook.
Storage is one of the most important aspects of achieving a functional kitchen. The first thing that we recommend all our clients is to draw up an inventory of all their large utensils and kitchen appliances. If there is anything that you do not use regularly then this would be a great time to get rid of them.
Next think about your pantry and how much groceries do you store on a regular basis. Do you need a larger pantry or are you satisfied with the current one? These questions are important before a renovation so your kitchen can be custom built according to your family’s functionality.
When working within tight spaces we incorporate space saving designs such as ‘magic corners’ for corner cabinets, pull out cabinets, pull out rubbish bins and pull out pantries. Such designs help save space, and maximise storage when not a lot of it is available.
# 3 Durable Benchtop
Benchtops need to be durable in any kitchen whether it is used often or now. Most times benchtops cannot just be changed without changing the carcass of your cabinets as well. This means that it is vital that your benchtops survives atleast 25 years. Most older homes in Auckland have durable benchtop made of laminate which are not prone to cracking or breaking but they are prone to staining. Laminate benchtops get stained very easily and hence start making your kitchen look shabby.
Stainless steel is a very durable benchtop as it will not stain and has a long life. Stainless steel is not for everyone though as it can make a kitchen look cold and more like a commercial kitchen. Stainless steel is not the best option if you are going for a traditional or classic kitchen. Stainless steel can work well with industrial, modern and contemporary styles.
Quartz is another material that works great for countertops as it comes in various designs and is very durable. Due to its versatile option in design, it can be used in all types of kitchen styles. It is however an expensive choice for benchtops which might not be right for everyone’s budget.
Engineered stone has become one of the most popular choices for our clients as it is durable as well as cost effective compared to quartz. Engineered stone is exactly as it sounds, it is engineered in the factory. It can be made to look like marble or any other material which makes it a versatile design choice. It is also not as expensive as marble or quartz and does fit into most budgets. Engineered stone does not stain like laminate and is a very easy to clean material.
# 4 Good durable Flooring
The floor of the kitchen can easily get dirty and messy. Most people live busy lives and cannot spend a long time cleaning and maintaining the floors. Tiled or Acrylic floors are the easiest to maintain when it comes to kitchens. Tiled and Acrylic floors now come in various textures, designs and patters and can be made to look like wooden floors or any other type of flooring. This means that you do not have to compromise on style and aesthetics. They are also very easy to maintain and do not get damaged with any water spillage.
Carpets and Real hardwood floors are easily the hardest to maintain. Carpets are easily stained and can be a nightmare to maintain in a kitchen even with a kitchen mat. Real hardwood floors can begin to rot overtime if there is constant water spillage which is often not avoidable in a kitchen. If you have real hardwood floors then a good idea will be to protect them in order to avoid them getting damaged.
We have renovated old bungalows in Auckland where our clients chose to keep their timber floors and we preserved them by taking the following steps:
All the floors were cleaned thoroughly and then sanded
All the rows of nail holes were fixed
3 coats of commercial grade water Born Polyurethane was applied on the floors
After 5 days we then applied a satin finish of moisture cured and water based polyurethane.
# 5 Good Quality Fittings
If you’re considering which items to spend more on in your kitchen, it’s worth paying attention to the fittings. A standard cabinet can be lifted by a beautiful handle, while a basic sink can look high-end with the addition of a well-chosen tap.
The fittings in your kitchen are going to be used a lot, so it makes sense to invest in quality to ensure they’re strong, durable and nice to touch.
It is important to use good quality fittings when renovating a kitchen whether it is a DIY project or through a renovation company. You are not going to be renovating your kitchen every 5 years or so which means that the fittings you choose should be lasting you at least 15-20 years. It is better to put off your renovation for a few more years in order to save enough to invest in good quality fittings for your kitchen renovation.
Your fittings will be used a lot and quite regularly so there is a high chance of wear and tear. The materials you choose for your cabinets, benchtop, sink and door handles should be durable and sturdy.
# 6 Easy to clean splash back
A well chosen splashback can transform your kitchen in terms of design as well as reduce the time it takes you to clean while cooking. One of the key functions of a splashback is to protect the wall from the splatters made while cooking. Hence decide on a sleek tiled splashback without many grout lines or a glass splashback.
If there are too many grout lines or if the tile used is rough or textured then cleaning the splashback will be harder. If it is a smoother tile without too many grout lines then it would be a whole lot easier to clean your splashback.
Featured Projects
Urban Luxury Kitchen renovation in Parnell
This townhouse was centrally located in Parnell but the kitchen was tiny and lacked counter space. We completely changed the layout of this kitchen by first moving it from the left side of the area to the right. We then added cabinets in the dining area as an extended storage space. This cabinet featured shelves with internal lights which could be opened when required. To see Before and After pictures and project specifications see more
Entertainer’s Dream Kitchen and Bar
Guru and Neeta from Massey had a closed off kitchen which did not let them enjoy an open plan living. They wanted to renovate to introduce a feel of luxury but also make it an open space which could double as an entertaining space. We opened up the space for them and also extended the kitchen counter towards the lounge to act like a bar. The black and white see more
Kitchen, Lounge and Dining room renovation in Massey
Cottage Style Kitchen in Mangere Bridge
This was a special kitchen as it was about incorporating natural elements into the kitchen to reflect our client’s country surroundings. The kitchen was dated and was transformed into a chic country style kitchen complete with treated real wood as bench-tops, butler’s sink, floating shelves and cabinets that were wrapped in Dezignatek Thermoform with a ‘Ronda’ pattern to give them cabinets a vintage look see more
Full kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland
Already have all your own trades and you’re comfortable managing them for your kitchen renovation?
Although we don’t recommend if you haven’t renovated a kitchen before and/or you don’t have trades people you can trust, most renovations if not all comes with it’s own surprises because not all homes are the same – this is where experience/project management plays an important role in minimises risks to maintain costs/delays giving you higher certainty of outcome/quality backed by associated guarantees and warranties.
However, if you do intend to manage the kitchen renovation yourself, it does work out more cost effective to contact a kitchen cabinetry manufacturer directly to get the kitchen cabinets designed, manufactured and installed – leaving you to manage the other trades such as flooring, demolition, painting, plastering, splashback/tiling, electrician, plumber, and sometimes a carpenter/builder.
Try Little Giant Interiors cost calculator below to see what you can expect to pay for cabinetry.
Kitchen renovations start from 23K and can go up to 50K depending on the level of customization and the type of products used. For a basic kitchen renovation with minimal layout changes and mid-range products/fixtures, you can get a fully renovated kitchen for around 23K. However, if the level of customization is high and premium-range products are used, costs can exceed 30K.
How do I budget for my kitchen renovation?
Start by listing the reasons for your kitchen renovation. Is it to increase functionality with modern amenities and a new layout? Is it for minor upgrades because things are looking outdated? Is it to convert a closed-off kitchen into an open-plan living space? Or is it to upgrade a rental property for better market rent? These goals will shape your budget. For an investment property aimed at adding value or increasing rent, opt for a basic renovation with minimal customization using mid-range supplies. If the goal is to enhance functionality and comfort, consider mid-range to premium suppliers and customize within your budget.
Do you have finance options for my kitchen renovation?
Yes, we provide finance options for clients renovating their kitchens with us. We understand that setting aside a large sum for a renovation isn’t always feasible, so we’ve partnered with Linda from Loan Market to offer financing solutions. For more details, visit our page: Guide to Financing Your Home Renovation.
Does a kitchen renovation increase the value of my home?
Kitchens and bathrooms are the two main areas that significantly increase your home’s overall value. Kitchens, in particular, are a focal point for buyers, as they’ve evolved beyond just cooking spaces. They’re now places for family gatherings, interaction, and entertainment, making them a top priority for homebuyers.
Where can I find help to design my kitchen?
Renovation companies like ours, which offer a full ‘design-to-build’ service, include kitchen design in their process, so you don’t need to hire a separate designer. Having the designer within the same team as the renovation company simplifies communication and coordination.
Do I need to get my own plumbers and electricians for my kitchen renovation?
This depends on the renovation company. Companies offering a complete ‘design-to-build’ service handle everything, including kitchen design, demolition, rubbish disposal, product supply (e.g., flooring, bathroom fixtures, showers, vanities), installation, all trades (electricians, plumbers, tilers), and project management. The cost of the renovation includes all these services. However, some kitchen manufacturers focus solely on manufacturing and installing the kitchen and do not provide electricians, plumbers, or tilers. Research your options to find what best suits your needs.
What are some kitchen backsplash trends?
A backsplash can transform your kitchen’s look. Whether you want a pop of color in an otherwise white-toned kitchen or a sleek, modern style with a glass backsplash, the options are vast. Read our article on the latest kitchen backsplash trends for 2020 and 2021 here: Kitchen Backsplash Trends.
Still have questions unanswered?
Book a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations, we’d love to meet you to discuss your renovation ideas!
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
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This blog has been updated with additional information to ensure you create a functional kitchen design.
Hey Aucklanders, if you’re mapping out a kitchen layout for your Grey Lynn villa or a bustling Albany family spot and want it to flow effortlessly—easy prep, no bumping into each other during busy mornings, and that seamless link to the deck for barbies—this planning guide’s your go-to. It’s all about the classic work triangle (sink, stove, fridge), smart zones for real Kiwi cooking, and layouts that maximise space and light in our variable climate, turning chaos into a functional heart of the home.
What’s the Secret to a Killer Kitchen Layout That Actually Works for Daily Life?
It boils down to the work triangle, mate—that imaginary line between sink, stove, and fridge should total 4-8 metres with no major traffic crossing it, keeping steps minimal for efficient cooking. Dorothy Li, our designer, says it’s timeless but flexible: In modern open-plan setups, add zones for prep, cooking, cleaning, and storage to avoid bottlenecks. Factor in your whānau—lefties need counter space on the right of the stove, and allow 90-120cm walkways for two cooks. We’ve nailed heaps in Auckland homes by prioritising north-facing windows for natural light and bi-folds for that indoor-outdoor vibe we crave.
Which Layout Suits Your Auckland Home Best—Galley, L-Shaped, U, or Island?
Depends on your space and lifestyle, eh?
Galley → Ace for narrow villas or apartments—two parallel walls maximise efficiency, great for one cook in tight Ponsonby spots.
L-Shaped → Versatile winner for most, wrapping around two walls with open flow—perfect for adding a dining nook in Remuera bungalows.
U-Shaped → Loads of storage and benches, ideal for bigger family kitchens in Howick with multiple zones.
Island or Peninsula → Game-changer for open-plan entertaining, adding seating and prep space—spot-on for sociable Kiwi homes with bi-folds to the deck.
How Do You Nail Measurements and Zones for a Layout That Feels Right?
Standard counters at 90cm high, 60cm deep—allow 120cm in front of appliances for easy loading. Islands need 100-120cm clearance around for traffic, with 30-45cm overhang for seating. Zone it: Prep near sink with landing space, cooking with ventilation over hob (our steamy fries demand it), storage in tall pantries or pull-outs. Pro tip: Layer lighting—pendants over islands, LEDs under cabinets—and choose durable quartz or laminate that shrugs off spills in humid Auckland summers.
If you are planning a kitchen renovation, then you must be looking for kitchen design ideas that works best for the space that you have available. Not everyone is able to build a brand-new house to live in. This means that most people have to renovate their existing kitchen and have to decide on a kitchen design that transform their current space into something that is functional and works for their family.
Our kitchen designers often work with our clients to custom built a kitchen within their current space. We spoke to our designers and they said that deciding the right type of design does not just mean deciding on a U shaped, L shaped or galley kitchen. There are a few technicalities that need to be kept in mind before deciding on a layout for the kitchen. They work by 7 rules that go into designing a kitchen that works for our clients.
In this article we will discuss the following:
7 core technicalities to keep in mind when designing your kitchen layout
Kitchen Ergonomics 101
7 tips to keep your kitchen functional
6 Most popular kitchen layouts – which layout is right for your kitchen design?
Whatever shape your kitchen has, it must be livable first. It has to be an area where you can walk around at ease without bumping into things. You need to align your cabinets in a way that when opened they are not bumping into something else. Therefore, space planning is vital before you can decide a shape for your kitchen.
7 Essentials to keep in mind when deciding on a Layout for your Kitchen Design
In the first section of this article, we will discuss the 7 essential features that you should keep in mind before deciding on a layout for your kitchen.
How do you decide what kitchen layout to go with?
There are several different kitchen layouts available, each with their own set of pros and cons. Some common kitchen layouts include:
U-shaped: This layout features cabinets and countertops on three walls, creating a “U” shape. This layout is great for larger kitchens and allows for plenty of counter space and storage.
L-shaped: This layout features cabinets and countertops on two adjacent walls, creating an “L” shape. This layout is great for smaller kitchens and can be used to create a work triangle.
Galley: This layout features cabinets and countertops on two parallel walls. This layout is great for small kitchens and allows for easy movement between the sink, stove, and refrigerator.
Island: This layout features an island in the middle of the kitchen that can be used for additional counter space and storage. This layout is great for larger kitchens and can also be used to create a work triangle.
Single-wall: This layout features cabinets and countertops on a single wall. This layout is great for small kitchens and allows for easy movement.
When considering a kitchen layout, it’s important to consider the size and shape of your kitchen, as well as your cooking and storage needs. Additionally, it’s important to consider the flow of traffic and the ease of movement within the kitchen. If you have a small kitchen, it’s important to maximize the space you have by choosing a layout that works well with your available space. If you have a larger kitchen, you may have more options for layout and can choose a layout that works best for your cooking and storage needs.
Kitchen Ergonomics and the work triangle
Kitchen Ergonomics is important in order to achieve a great kitchen design. Ergonomics is a study of designing an environment that fits people instead of people fitting into an environment.
A work triangle was initially devised as a measure of efficiency of a kitchen. The triangle ensures that there is a clear pathway from your stove, the cleaning area which is your sink and your refrigerator. There should be no other traffic through this triangle.
1.Foot traffic and designated storage areas
One of the top priorities in your kitchen design should be to ensure that you have a clear primary pathway throughout the kitchen without obstructing the oven or dishwasher doors when opened.
Kitchens are almost always a high traffic area in any household. Your kitchen design must include clear designated areas where you will be storing your appliances, which will be your living area and where you will be doing most of the cooking. Make a list of all your big appliances, your cutlery, your regularly used utensils, your washing area, your cooking area and make sure that your kitchen design includes a designated area for these things. An example below shows a rough drawing of how the areas should be designated in your kitchen designs.
Create Clear zones for circulation, meal preparation and cooking in your kitchen layout (Image courtesy Room Sketcher.com: https://www.roomsketcher.com/blog/kitchen-layout-ideas/)
2.Distance between all your fixtures
It is important for your kitchen area to not be too cramped. There are many kitchen designs that include all the amenities, but they end up having very little space between fixtures. This means that in reality when you are working in the kitchen it will not be a very functional space.
Hence think about the distance between your cooking area and your sink for example. You also do not want your fridge to be too far away from your stove because it will end up becoming inconvenient. Your dishwasher should also be in an easy distance from your sink so that you can rinse and easily load your dishwasher.
3.Distance between your island and cooking area
If you have an island in the kitchen then you should make sure that there isn’t too much or too little space between the island and the cooktop. Islands are usually a great area to prep your meals which means that if its too far from the cooktop then it will complicate things.
This L-shaped island from our renovation in Blockhouse Bay is installed a good distance from the counters
L Shaped Kitchen from our Stanmore Bay renovation with a large island with bar stools and a hob
On the contrary if there is too little space between the island and the stove then you cannot have more than 1 person comfortably cooking and prepping in the area. Also, most island do have storage cabinets built into them and they should be able to comfortably open and not collide with the parallel countertops or yourself.
4.Place the Cooktop and Kitchen first within your kitchen design
A good rule of thumb is always to figure out where the sink, cooktop and the dishwasher goes before deciding on other designated areas. The sink and cooktop are the areas where most of the action happens in the kitchen. Designers often first decide on these elements before designating areas for preparation of storage cabinets. Also ensure that there is ample room around the sink and cooktop. If you have a large island with quite a bit of surface area, then you can install your sink on it as it could provide you with lots of area to work with.
Everything should comfortably open and not obstruct the pathway or any other fixture in a functional kitchen design (Image courtesy Room Sketcher.com: https://www.roomsketcher.com/blog/kitchen-layout-ideas/)
5.Be smart about where you place your cooktop
Ventilation is very important in kitchens so that there is not too much moisture in the kitchen. Too much humidity and moisture in your kitchen will end up making your walls mouldy and ruin your furniture especially if its an open plan setting. You can install a cooktop on your island, but it will be expensive to install a good ventilation system and you will have no splashback to catch all the splatters. Hence, we recommend our clients to install their cooktops on an exterior wall where installing a ventilation system becomes easier, plus you will be able to install and splashback.
6.Keep Vertical Storage in Mind
Storage is one of the most important components of a functional kitchen design. A kitchen can be beautifully designed but if it lacks storage then it makes for a bad kitchen design. Not everyone has the choice of having large and spacious kitchens with numerous storage cabinets for storage. However, a lack of space however does not have to equate to lack of storage in small kitchen designs. You can consider installing wall-mounted vertical storage that is reachable by kitchen ladders. A moveable ladder can be included into your kitchen design, and you can store products that you use regularly in the top cabinets. In order to give your kitchen design more depth, you can also place hooks and open shelves on the walls.
7.Create a Floor Plan and Visualize Your Kitchen in 3D
Once you have decided on materials, dimensions, and aesthetics of your kitchen, make sure that you create a 3D plan for your kitchen. Most renovation companies like ours provide 3D drawings for clients so that the client can visualise the kitchen before manufacturing and installation begins. Even if you are doing a DIY project, it is always a good idea to generate 3D drawings for a kitchen via an app or a designer.
7 Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Functional
1. Vertical Wall Storage
when planning your kitchen layout design, you’d always want to consider a functional kitchen design. Having storage in your kitchen plays a huge part in making your kitchen functional. Create organizational central by using magnets, hooks, and rods. use vertical wall storage in your kitchen as it’s a great idea for any size kitchen and there are a variety of customisable layout options.
Vertical Wall Storage | Photo Credit – iStock
2. Live On The Big Island
in your kitchen plans NZ, always plan for an island if possible. A kitchen island is a place where everyone gathers and can act as extra storage space. Consider a kitchen island in your kitchen layout design as it makes your kitchen more functional.
3. Hidden, Not Forgotten
Our kitchen designers Auckland recommend that you think about installing a two tiered carousel to free up counter space and make the most of corner cabinet storage. This is a great idea to consider in your kitchen layout ideas NZ as you can store both often used and infrequently used goods hidden away but within easy reach.
Two Tiered Carousel
4. Clean Lined Cooktop
For your designer new kitchen, think about using a flat glass ceramic cooktop if your kitchen has limited counter space. This kitchen plans NZ works regardless of which kitchen style you’re after, thanks to it’s streamlined shape, and complements the kitchen.
5. Spiced Up Organisation
Creating a functional kitchen design may be tricky as there are many elements to consider. Purchase small containers to fill up drawers with all the different spices you own. Have a designated drawer that is dedicated to only spices that would take your organisation to the next level.
Pantry with pull out drawers
6. Keep Continuity In Mind
You don’t need to spend big to get the functional kitchen design you’re after. To get a unified, finished kitchen layout design, opt for kitchen appliances covered in integrated doors that complement your cabinets.
7. Illumination Innovations
Nobody likes fumbling around in the dark for something, even if it is to find a flashlight. In your kitchen plans NZ, purchase some plug in lighting strips with motion sensors to install into your drawers. To create a functional kitchen design, having good kitchen lighting is the way to go.
Lighting on the splashback
6 Most common Layouts for your Kitchen design – Which one is right for your space?
Now that we have discussed the essential dimensions and distances required for a functional kitchen design, lets discuss the 6 most popular kitchen design layouts of today. A good layout will help you maximise the space available to give you a functional kitchen for your family.
A kitchen is different from all the other rooms in a home as ergonomics has a huge role to play in its design plan. Getting the right heights and distance between objects is important for its functionality.
1.U-shaped kitchen
U shaped kitchens work well if you have a lot of space available. U-shaped kitchens have counters on three walls of the kitchen forming a U shape. These types of kitchens offer ample space to eat, cook and entertain. Larger U-shaped kitchens can also accommodate an island in the middle to provide additional bench space.
U shaped kitchens are usually found in a standalone room of itself or in the corner of a large room. The modern U-shaped kitchen has evolved from being made on three walls into an L-shaped kitchen with a disconnected island to for a U shape. This allows people the flexibility to enjoy an open planned living which is the most popular style today.
If you do have a small kitchen then a U shaped kitchen is possible to have but opt for the modern U-shape design with an L-shaped kitchen and a narrow island that can double as a breakfast bar.
If your kitchen layout design has enough space, consider adding a kitchen island in your kitchen plans NZ. Having a kitchen island adds additional storage and can be used as a gathering point. If you happen to have a large kitchen, instead of adding a kitchen island, add a dining table. Having a dining table might be more comfortable than gathering around an island.
2. Add Depth With Paint
Having a U shaped designer new kitchen can become too boxy. In your kitchen plans NZ, include some dark paint on a singular wall. If you happen to have a kitchen island add dark paint to the base of it. This will help create a focal point in your kitchen and add depth to the space.
3. Pendant Lighting
Having a large kitchen requires you to consider lighting as you’d want to ensure the kitchen is well lit. Our kitchen designers Auckland suggest that you hang some pendant lighting in the middle of the room to above a dining area. This way it will help define the area and make the kitchen more welcoming.
Pendant Lighting in Kitchen | Photo Credit – Unsplash
4. Open Shelving
In your kitchen layout ideas NZ, plan to have some floating/open shelves to replace some cabinet spaces as it will open the room. To create an inviting atmosphere, be sure to add décor elements and keep the space orgnaised.
Open Shelving in Kitchen | Photo Credit – Unsplash
5. Create An Entertaining Space
Creating a functional kitchen design has many elements to it before it becomes functional. A kitchen has always been somewhat of an entertaining space. If you’re a fan of hosting parties at your house, make sure there is space for you to converse with guests while cooking or preparing meals.
2.L-shaped kitchens
An L shaped kitchen is great for small spaces like apartments and units. They are different from U-shaped kitchens as they have one less wall where you can put counters and storage. It is great for small families, couples or single inhabitants of a house.
While there is less counterspace and storage available in an L-shaped kitchen, it is a more cohesive design for smaller spaces. With ingenuity and some innovation, you can maximise storage by building storage vertically and reach these spaces with a trendy kitchen ladder.
L shaped kitchens are also great if you have a corner that is not being used and if you are looking at maximising this space. If your kitchen is in an open plan living, kitchen and dining area then you can potentially build a small island that can double as a dining and do away with a dining table all together. This will give you more bench space and you will not be stuck with a dining table that you do not use.
5 Ideas To Maxmise Your L Shaped Kitchen
1. Link With Materials
To create a cohesive look in your kitchen layout design, try to link sections in your kitchen by matching materials. Consider using the same surface material, cabinetry paint, and hardware. This will not only give the area a coherent aesthetic, but it will also make the room appear larger because your attention won’t be drawn to anything different elsewhere in the space.
2. Balance Your Storage
Storage space is highly important in your kitchen, ensure you have enough storage space in your kitchen layout design. In a L shaped kitchen, you’re able to have storage up high and down low. Our kitchen designers Auckland suggest that you paint your high cabinets the same colour as your walls, as it will give the impression that the space is bigger without sacrificing storage space. Paint your lower cabinets a lighter, brighter tone.
3. Create A Practical Workspace
A functional kitchen design consists of having a practical workspace which is why you should always keep in mind of the working triangle in your kitchen layout ideas NZ. To have a successful functional kitchen, you’d want everything to flow smoothly.
4. Balance The L Shaped With A Window
If possible, try to position your L shaped kitchen under a window as it will help you balance out the kitchen. This designer new kitchen will give equal function to the other part of the L shaped kitchen. Having windows in your kitchen will lighten up the room.
L shaped kitchen with window | Photo Credit – iStock
5. Store Vertically
As mentioned before, storage space is an important factor that you should consider in your kitchen layout design as having enough storage space creates a functional kitchen. Use an entire wall to have floor to wall ceiling cabinets if possible as it will utilise your kitchen space. Take your kitchen layout ideas NZ a step further by adding a magnetic rail to hold knives.
3.Galley Kitchen:
Galley kitchens have two parallel walls with countertops and a walkway in between them. Traditionally galley kitchens often feature in standalone rooms of their own. This style is very popular in older Auckland homes with more people choosing to remove one of the walls to integrate the galley kitchen into an open plan living space.
Galley kitchens work best if you have a narrow room and prefer your kitchen closed off from the rest of the house. A galley kitchen can easily be converted into an open style kitchen by demolishing the wall between the kitchen and the living space. If you are demolishing a wall that has countertops adjacent to it then you can convert this row of countertops into a long island instead. This way you can keep the storage and work bench space. Another great way to integrate a galley kitchen into your living space is making a large open window without a glass pane on the wall that has one of the countertops adjacent to it.
We designed this kitchen for a client that wanted to integrate her Galley kitchen into the rest of the living space. She still wanted to keep the storage which meant that our next best option was to create a window and extend the counter into an island which was used for casual dining.
Allowing natural light in your designer new kitchen is ideal but if you’re unable to let natural light in, opt for good lighting fixtures in your kitchen layout design. In your galley kitchen layout ideas NZ, take into account lighting options such as worktop spotlight and properly positioned pendants. Shiny materials like tile, metal, and glass will reflect light to give the impression that the room is bigger.
2. Keep It Simple
In your designer new kitchen, keep it simple as it will make your space feel airy. Choose sleek, click close doors that don’t have handles. Skip the colour scheme and stick with monochromatic, light neutrals. Choose a unique rug or a high end faucet for your kitchen if you’d like to make a statement in your kitchen layout design.
3. Open it up
Creating a functional kitchen design for your galley kitchen can be tricky. The easiest way to create more functionality in your kitchen is by adding a kitchen island for food preparation and storage. As it can allow for casual dining, including an overhang and stool seating.
Galley Kitchen in Island | Photo Credit – iStock
4. Hanging Storage
Counter space is important no matter what style kitchen you have. In your kitchen plans NZ consider having some hanging storage options as an alternative if you’re low on cabinet or counter space. Our kitchen designers Auckland always recommend hanging storage solutions to hang your pots and pans where they can be easily accessible. Another alternative is to have floating shelves to display anything you like.
5. Clear The Contents
Our inhouse kitchen designers Auckland suggest that you keep your kitchen countertops clear if possible. As this will provide your kitchen with an airier look and make the space look clean. Consider installing a microwave drawer to get the appliance off your counter. Provide goods with a home by having tall storage, especially if you don’t utilise them frequently.
4.Island Kitchen:
Kitchens in the past always featured islands which were predominantly used for prep work in kitchens. Islands phased in the past few decades as the space available for them became lesser and other kitchen designs provided more storage.
This however has changed in the past decade as islands of today feature storage cabinets on all sides, they provide extra prep space and act as a small breakfast nook. Installing an island is not possible for all spaces but there are more sleeker styles available today. It is possible to incorporate a an island in L-shaped, U shaped and Galley kitchens as long as there is enough room to move around all the counters.
To create a functional kitchen design, it’s been proven that having a kitchen island plays a huge part in making your kitchen more functional. Having an island may only seem like it’s possible only for a spacious kitchen but that’s not the case. Think about having a portable island as it can be easily moved to different areas of the kitchen when needed as it can provide as additional work surface and seating options.
2. Refresh The Kitchen With A Splash Of Colour
Kitchen designers Auckland advise that if you have a neutral kitchen, use your kitchen island as a space to add a splash of colour in your kitchen plans NZ. In your designer new kitchen, consider painting the island a contrast colour as it offers a quick and simple update that can work wonders in the kitchen without you having to commit to a full kitchen renovation.
Splash of colour on kitchen island | Photo Credit – iStock
3. Incorporate Extra Storage At One End
Kitchen layout ideas NZ for your island, ensure you take advantage of your island by adding additional storage to it. Put this unused area to better use by including a set of shelves rather than the typical end panels. Make sure it has a thin gap that might be used as a spice rack or a place to store condiments and oils, as it should be at least 10cm deep to create a functional kitchen design.
4. Position Appliances Away From Entertaining Space
If your island is in an open-concept kitchen, you probably want to create a lively and appealing environment for entertaining. in your kitchen layout ideas NZ, you might want to consider placing cooking appliances on the inside of your kitchen island. Our kitchen designers Auckland highly advise this as having cooking appliances on the outside of your kitchen island is not a good idea. To create a more inviting atmosphere, incorporate your oven and hob onto the island facing the social area.
5. Make Sure Your Kitchen Is Well Lit
Lighting is extremely important as if you have an island, it will become a focal point. Ensure you have the right lighting in your kitchen plans NZ so that your kitchen has sufficient lighting. As your kitchen island will be a primary location for food preparation and entertaining, it needs to be adequately lighted. Keep this in mind in your kitchen layout ideas NZ.
5.Peninsula Kitchen:
In peninsula kitchens your island extends from the rest of your kitchen. This type of island provides more benchtop space or a dining area when there isn’t much space available for an standalone island. This works especially well for L-shaped kitchens as seen in one of our renovations below. Lynette’s family really wanted a breakfast nook in their kitchen design but did not have the space for an island in the middle of the kitchen. Hence we created a peninsula design for her kitchen which allowed her to have her breakfast nook without making the area cumbersome.
We custom built a peninsula kitchen for this renovation in Bucklands Beach which added additional bench space as well as added a breakfast nook for our clients.
Many kitchen designs that have been completed by our kitchen designers Auckland express how important it is to create a space for seating where the family can all get together. If your open-plan peninsula kitchen has room, you might want to think about installing banquette seating there. This kitchen layout ideas NZ is an excellent approach to fit more people around the table as it will create a social space for entertaining and serve as a kitchen extension in your designer new kitchen.
2. Open Shelving
Like many designer new kitchen, you’d want to create a perfect kitchen layout ideas NZ to open your kitchen and make the space appear lighter and larger. Open shelves make it simple to reach for necessary appliances when working in the kitchen and lets more light into the room.
Open Shelving | Photo Credit – Unsplash
3. Add Light Fixtures
Remember to install lighting over your peninsula. It not only brightens up your workspace, but it also gives your house more visual appeal. You can add pendent lighting to the space to offer visual contrast in your kitchen plans NZ.
6.Two Island Kitchen:
This type of kitchen is only possible for a kitchen design which has a large space to work with. You can create a lovely 2 island kitchen which can be installed in the middle of the kitchen design with a pathway in between them. You can use one of the islands for prep work and in the other you can even install a cooktop and make that your cooking area. Two islands of a smaller size work better than one large island in the middle as there is more accessibility available with two small islands. It is also better for walking around and the general flow of your kitchen.
Featured Projects
Urban Luxury Kitchen renovation in Parnell – An open plan U-shaped Kitchen
This townhouse was centrally located in Parnell but the kitchen was tiny and lacked counter space. We completely changed the layout of this kitchen by first moving it from the left side of the area to the right. We then added cabinets in the dining area as an extended storage space. This cabinet featured shelves with internal lights which could be opened when required. To see Before and After pictures and project specifications see more
Entertainer’s Dream Kitchen and Bar – A modern U shaped Open plan kitchen
Guru and Neeta from Massey had a closed off kitchen which did not let them enjoy an open plan living. They wanted to renovate to introduce a feel of luxury but also make it an open space which could double as an entertaining space. We opened up the space for them and also extended the kitchen counter towards the lounge to act like a bar. The black and white see more
Kitchen, Lounge and Dining room renovation in Massey
Cottage Style Kitchen in Mangere Bridge – Peninsula Kitchen
This was a special kitchen as it was about incorporating natural elements into the kitchen to reflect our client’s country surroundings. The kitchen was dated and was transformed into a chic country style kitchen complete with treated real wood as bench-tops, butler’s sink, floating shelves and cabinets that were wrapped in Dezignatek Thermoform with a ‘Ronda’ pattern to give them cabinets a vintage look see more
Full kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Aucklandd
Open Plan Galley Kitchen in Epsom
We renovated this historic bungalow in Epsom to make it more functional for a young family. The materials used were durable and easy to clean. This open style galley kitchen allows our clients the freedom to spend quality time within one space. See full details for this project here
Yes, we do have an In-house Kitchen designer who will help you create a Kitchen design for your kitchen renovation. We provide all our clients with 3D drawings when we create a proposal for you.
What kind of Kitchen layout is best for me?
This will depend on various factors. Read our article on Planning your layout for a functional and practical kitchen design here to understand more about the layout that is right for you : https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/kitchen-layout-planning-guide-to-achieving-a-good-kitchen-design
Do I have to get my own plumbers and electricians?
We provide a full renovation service for any given area. This means that our service will include design, demolition, sourcing of all renovation materials from local supplier showrooms, custom built cabinetry, installation of all cabinets, flooring, fixtures, project management and all trades like electricians, plumbers, grouters, builders, tilers, and any other trades.
Still have questions unanswered?
Book a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations, we’d love to meet you to discuss your renovation ideas!
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
The consistent argument between open plan kitchens and closed plan kitchens is an age-old one. The two types of kitchen floor plans have their pros and cons depending on the lifestyle and space you have. There is no clear winner of what kitchen floor plan is better.
For some an open plan kitchen design may be the right choice, and to some a closed plan kitchen design will be their match. At the end of the day our kitchen designers, Cici and Dorothy states that it is all about personal taste. To find the best kitchen floor plan to fit your lifestyle, we’ve put together a guide that covers all aspects from what each floor plan is to current trends. All the content has been put together with our kitchen designers Cici and Dorothy.
What is an Open Plan Kitchen?
In residential design, an open plan kitchen is a combination of the kitchen, lounge, and the dining room to create one single great space. In simple terms, an open plan kitchen floor plan is a kitchen design without walls or other dividers to separate it from the rest of the house. This type of kitchen floor plan design most certainly have a modern feel and is an easy way to boost room size allowing more travel of light. Open plan kitchens are a popular kitchen design in new builds, and amongst homeowners with smaller homes. Other than allowing a spacious kitchen and living area, the open floor plan kitchen can also boost the resale value of a property.
Our kitchen designers, Cici and Dorothy, recommend incorporating a big island in your open plan kitchen design. Having an island gives your property a modern effect and a spacious area which can be used as a breakfast bar or food preparation area.
Benefits of an Island in an Open Plan Kitchen
An island is an efficient kitchen design to add counter and storage space, in a reachable area. Kitchen islands can act as a pivotable point between your cooking, cleaning, and food-preparation. With the incorporation of fixtures and appliances, such as a sink and cooktop, as well as bar stools for dining, an island is an easy way to get the family together. Kitchen Islands offer such utility, being a reason why our in-house designers recommend it to their clients during their kitchen upgrade or their open plan kitchen. However, during your kitchen design process, be sure to leave enough room between all sides of the island to maintain a traffic free zone between all the key activity zones such as the stove and sink. How you layout your kitchen is crucial to the functionality of your kitchen. It may sound complicated, but it is simple with the correct guidance.
When designing your kitchen island for your open plan kitchen, our kitchen designers recommend incorporating cabinets under the bench-top. As well as, incorporating the same colour palettes for the side, back panels, and bench-top, to create a waterfall ending. Below we will cover 5 other design ideas you can incorporate in your open kitchen design.
3 Open Plan Kitchen Design Tips
1. Wood Accents
Rustic wood accents are a popular material to make a kitchen island and is an easy way to make your open plan kitchen unique. Try applying mosaic, painting it in a bold colour, explore different types of countertop materials and incorporate as much storage space as possible. A living wooden island countertop is a growing trend that adds a touch of nature to the open kitchen.
2. Double Kitchen Islands
Two is better than one. Adding a kitchen island to your home provides extra space for food preparation. However, setting up a double island instead of a singular kitchen island can be useful way for getting that additional space. A double island can provide more kitchen design opportunities, such as, more storage space, a second sink for larger families, a built-in cooktop, or a breakfast bar style eat-in dining space. One island can be used as a bistro table, away from the cooking and one island can be outfitted with a single basin sink for easy clean-up. A double island is an easy and minimalist way to create a simple and clean atmosphere throughout your kitchen. Not only this but two island kitchens give a luxurious look and make a perfect conversation space.
Incorporating a butcher block and/or white quartz kitchen island is a great modern take on a classical kitchen design. The contrast between the two kitchen island styles gives the kitchen a more transitional style with a twist with the combinations of colour and finishes. With a mixture of a white quartz island with a built-in sink and bar counter space, and the wooden accents of a butcher’s block island can create a unique, imbalance look to your open kitchen space.
Structural Process of Converting to an Open Plan Kitchen
When a client requests a kitchen renovation for an open plan kitchen, the first thing that will be identified is whether additional layout changes need to be made. The two options will be
Kitchen layout is already an open plan kitchen: No structural changes needed.
Kitchen layout is a closed plan kitchen: Structural changes are required.
If structural changes need to be made, the kitchen design team at Superior Renovations will request for a floor plan of the house. This is to get a correct idea of what processes need to be made and identify what type of walls need to be removed. There are 2 types of walls.
Partial Wall
A partial wall is when there is no support structure within the wall. These walls are generally used as a divider, or can be used to add an additional door or window. If the floor plan shows a partial work, the process is fairly easy and builders can remove the wall without any additional work. After wall removal is done, our builders touch up the areas with plaster and paint to fix the gib of the damaged wall.
Structural Wall/Load-Bearing Wall
A structural wall, also known as a load-bearing wall is when a wall consists of active structural elements of the house. The process of removing this type of wall requires more builders and more support or steel beams to be added. Upon the removal, if a lintel is found, the above lintel structure must be kept. However, before any work is done on structural walls the client must give consent to go further. Here are quick steps that are taken to determine whether a wall is a load bearing:
Check the whole house floor plan.
Look for extra wall support.
Identify if the wall runs through multiple levels.
The use joists and beams in the basement and/or attic.
The process of wall removing, whether it is a partial or structural wall can be difficult. It is especially difficult when the house does not come with a floor plan, resulting in builder unaware of all details of the wall structures of the house. Therefore, in order to ensure there is no wrong judgement during an open kitchen plan renovation, we discuss with clients about GIB removal and further inspections. However, some main structural changes are not all simple and require an architect and council consent to proceed further.
Please note this progress is a guide on the structural processes taken by the team at Superior Renovations. These steps may vary with other renovation companies.
Before and After of Wall Removal for an Open Plan Kitchen
At Superior Renovations our kitchen designers deal with a lot of structural changes during kitchen renovation. One simple action of removing a wall can do wonders to your kitchen. Opening the closed section can bring in natural light and make the space seem less crowded. A perfect example for this is the full kitchen transformation done located in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland.
Before Kitchen Structural Changes
After Kitchen Structural Changes
As you can see, before structural changes the kitchens are congested, dim and lacked space and storage space. The core focus during the kitchen renovation process was to break the two partial walls separating the kitchen from the living space. The counter space acting as a divider was also removed to allow space for a luxurious kitchen island. There is a significant atmosphere change after converting to an open plan kitchen.
On the other hand, closed plan kitchens can be referred to as a kitchen space that is closed off from the rest of the house. Unlike an open plan kitchen, a closed plan kitchen features a wall or one or two doorways that acts as a divider from the living or dining area. This type of kitchen plan is usually just common in older property, and a traditional form of kitchen layout. However, this does not mean modern houses do not have closed plan kitchens, some do!
At the end of the day, it is up to you on what kitchen plan you prefer to have in your home. Closed plan kitchens are perfect for homeowners who prefer to keep things more private while cooking, and/or people who want food preparation and clean-up to be hidden from view. Having a separate kitchen is more isolated, and if you enjoy cooking daily, and elaborate meals, a closed kitchen plan will be the ideal choice for you. Also, closed kitchen is a more budget friendly option during a renovation process. This is because it does not require the extra structural work. Our kitchen designers Cici and Dorothy. state “closed plan kitchens are perfect for busy families as it requires limited tidying, and for people who have a limited budget”.
Find the Right Kitchen Plan Layout for You
Finding the right kitchen layout for your kitchen may sound like a confusing process. U, I, C, or L there are a variety of different types of kitchen layouts, and these terms like sound like a completely different language to you. However, do not worry, we have created a quick and easy kitchen layout guide below that can help you find the best kitchen plan for you. This guide is built to help you get an idea of what type of layout options you have, and/or help you learn more about the layout of your current kitchen
L-Shaped kitchens are one of today’s most popular kitchen layouts. This kitchen layout offers plenty of open space and is an easy fit for almost all kitchen styles. L kitchen layouts allow more opportunity for appliances and cabinets to be installed along the right-angled walls. Try incorporating a central island to create a working triangle between your countertop sink, cooktop, and refrigerator. Since L-shaped kitchens are placed into corners and usually come with two open ends, this allows a traffic free flowing environment with multiple entrances. Claustrophobic kitchens can be stressful and a burden to work in. Therefore, having a free-flowing kitchen can offer stress-free environment when preparing food or when hosting dinner parties. L-shaped kitchen layouts are perfect for homeowners who strive off an organised area. Here are some quick advantages and disadvantages of L-shaped kitchens.
6 Advantages of a L-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Great for corner space.
Efficient for small and medium kitchen spaces.
A variety of bench-tops and cabinets.
Minimal traffic.
Easy working triangle.
Perfect for open kitchen plan designs.
2 Disadvantages of a L-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Not efficient for larger spaces and larger kitchens.
Appliances can be too spread out.
More of an independent cooking space.
I-Shaped Kitchen Layout
I-Shaped kitchen layouts are so easy and simple, yet often forgotten. This type of kitchen layout, also called a single galley kitchen, is construction with a single wall set up. I-Shaped kitchen layouts are a great option for small spaces, and perfect for open lofts and small apartments. Due to its simplicity and affordability, it is a crowd favourite for small homeowner and gives the opportunity to make the tiniest rooms look stylish. The core benefit of an I-Shaped kitchen layout is that it only occupies one wall of your kitchen. Therefore, this creates more space for other items such as dining tables, bar carts, and a small island. This type of kitchen layout is not only for small kitchens and can most definitely be used in larger homes to contribute to a spacious open plan kitchen. Here are some quick single galley kitchen inspirations we love.
4 Inspirations for a Single Galley Kitchen Layout
Create Room for a Dining Place: By keeping your kitchen layout simple and on one wall, you will open more space for a dining table if your home does not have a dedicated dining space. Creating this space will give you an area for gathering with friends and family.
Tiny but Chic: Having a tiny single galley kitchen still comes with many design options. You can pack in some style with luxurious cabinets and marble bench-tops.
All-White Minimalism: You cannot go wrong with white. Incorporating white cabinets and countertops can make your space look larger. Try adding a bit of contrast with light silver appliances and kitchen tools to give your kitchen space a homier feel.
Horizontal Accessories: Pairing a single galley kitchen with horizontal accessories is a quick and easy technique to create the illusion of space. Incorporating a horizontal cabinet with a horizontal range hood, with a mirror backsplash can help elongate the kitchen space.
U-Shaped Kitchen Layout
U-Shape kitchen layouts provide a perfect working triangle and are very popular amongst busy cooks. A U-Shape kitchen layout consists of three walls with built in cabinetry, appliances and bench-tops that create a U shape. This shape allows easy reach of appliances and movement while cooking or preparation. This kitchen layout is also called the C-Shaped kitchen and often includes a refrigerator or an oven within the U/C shape. Here are some quick advantages and disadvantages of the U-shaped kitchen plan layout.
6 Advantages of a U-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Good working triangle, all appliances are placed within easy reach.
Space is maximised with wall-cabinets and built-in appliances.
Flexibility and efficient in kitchen design options.
A lot of bench-top space.
Allows the opportunity for multiple cooks in the kitchen.
Ability to create a seating and dining area.
3 Disadvantages of a U-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Long renovation process.
Cabinets and drawers need to be factored in the design to make the most lot of the cornered space.
Layout needs 3 walls to be set up.
U Shape Kitchen Renovation
A perfect example of a U/C shape kitchen is our classic kitchen renovation projects located in West Harbour. This U shape kitchen is incorporated with custom made cabinetry and pantry, soft close door hinges and LED lights with Dimma switches.
As highlighted above, whatever the kitchen plan or kitchen layout, there will always be advantages and disadvantages. In this section we will be highlighted the positives and negatives you should be aware of if you decide to go with an open plan kitchen layout.
5 Pros of an Open Plan Kitchen Design
1. Boost Room Size
An open plan kitchen is a perfect option for small houses such as apartments and townhouses. This kitchen floor plan has no dividing walls or doors which allow small areas seem much larger than they are. Since open plan kitchens come with minimal walls and dividers, there is plenty of space for additional furniture and kitchen design opportunities.
2. Keep an Eye on Kids and Increase Family Communication
Without any dividers an open plan kitchen can let you bond with your family and make sure kits are safe while cooking or completing kitchen chores.
3. Airflow and Spread Natural Sunlight
Having fewer walls and/or dividers means there is more opportunity for natural sunlight. An open plan kitchen allows movement and flow of air and sunlight into adjacent rooms. For homeowners who value home designs that prioritises airflow, continuity, and light, the open plan kitchen is the layout for you!
4. Efficient Use of Space and Design
When removing a wall, an open plan kitchen can make a small space look much bigger. This opens more opportunity for homeowners to design such as building a kitchen island. Having a kitchen island is a perfect use for good preparation or as a breakfast bar. Also, by expanding the living space with an open plan kitchen, it will give you a space to add design accents to complement the rest of the house.
5. Increase Resale Value
An open plan kitchen is considered a modern design and is known to boost the value of your property when it comes to reselling. This is because, open plan kitchens are increasing in demand with homeowners and homebuyers.
3 Cons of an Open Plan Kitchen
1. Always Visible
Being an opened area, the kitchen will always be visible to family members and/or guests. Messy kitchens contribute to making the house look messy, therefore, with an open plan kitchen there will always a need to keep the area tidy. Indulging in a regular cleaning routine can be difficult as cooking can tend to be a messy process.
2. Creates Noise and Smoke
With no walls, the sound of kitchen appliances and cooking will percolate into the house. The sound of the dishwasher and/or the range hood will not contribute to a positive experience when watching TV in the living area. Also, smoke can travel to other living areas making it hard to get rid of the smell of food around the house.
Tips from our kitchen designers Cici and Dorothy: “To decrease the amount of smoke travel, try incorporating good ventilations or range-hood systems”.
3. Limited Storage Place
Despite having more counter space, having an open plan kitchen normally means limited walls. With limited walls, this means there will fewer cabinets and less scope in pantry space. If you tend to have many dishes or have a lot of kitchen appliances to store, an open plan kitchen may be impractical.
The Pros and Cons of a Closed Plan Kitchen
Closed plan kitchens come with its own positives, as well as a few negatives. Below we have highlighted the most common advantages and disadvantages of a closed plan kitchen that could help you when looking for a kitchen that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
4 Pros of a Closed Plan Kitchen
1. More Privacy
Having a separate kitchen means that it does not blend into the living room or dining room. Having a closed plan kitchen gives you a dedicated space you need to do your work, without any distractions. Also, being closed off from the other sectors of your homes means everything is not visible, thus giving more procrastination when it comes to cleaning. Closed plan kitchens are the perfect options of homeowners/home cooks who like a kitchen place that is isolated from disturbances.
2. Good Storage Opportunities
Compared to an open plan kitchen, closed plan kitchens have more cabinetry. Having more walls translate to having more space for cabinet storage, countertop workspace and room for kitchen appliances. More cabinet storage results in a tidier kitchen without all the mess lying around on the countertops or kitchen islands. These cabinetry options come in handy if you have a lot of kitchen appliances but like keeping the area tidy.
3. Confined Noises, Odour and Fumes
Having walls or any sort of dividers to separate the kitchen from the living and/or dining area means emission are confined. Closed kitchen plans prevent any emission commenced during cooking overtaking other places in the kitchen.
4. Allows for More Separate Room
Not all homeowners want a single great room on the main floor in their homes, some value having a formal dining area. A closed kitchen gives the opportunities for homeowners to create a separate formal space for family meals and gatherings. Having this separate space also opens more design options such as having a full-length luxurious dining table, or a family room with a big TV to create a home cinema.
3 Cons of a Closed Plan Kitchen
1. Isolated Kitchen & Inefficient Use of Space
Although it may not seem like it, the dividing wall that separate a closed plan kitchen may efficient the opportunity of maximising the space of your home. Having a wall between rooms can prevent natural light flow and air, making a closed plan kitchen seem dark and stuffy. Having a closed of section for a kitchen can also create a sense of rigidness, making it difficult to interact with family and/or guests when cooking.
2. Hot and Stuffy
When cooking in a closed of space, smoke and heat can easily build up in the area. Although there are ventilation options, even a good fan can be loud and can make the kitchen an unpleasant space to work in. Whereas an open plan kitchen creates a natural ventilation system and room for the flumes and heat to travel, a closed kitchen does not provide this option.
3. Limited Space
Closed kitchens unintentionally make the house look smaller. Having a closed kitchen space also means a lack of space to sit and eat. Although you can create a separate dining area, this can be a hassle as you will need to carry hot food in and out of the kitchen. If you are considering a closed plan kitchen, try considering adding a small area for a small coffee table perfect for a quick breakfast.
Tip from our kitchen designers Cici and Dorothy: “Make your closed plan kitchen appear less small by incorporating colour and good lighting in your kitchen design. We recommend painting your area with brighter colours, such as cool grey, beige, or classic light. Try pairing it with led light fixtures. Incorporating refreshing colours and good lighting can significantly make your closed kitchen look bigger”.
Current Design Trends and Recommendations for an Open Plan Kitchen
Current Trends by our In-House Designers
An open plan kitchen will have more kitchen design options compared to a closed plan kitchen. Recently, we have seen many clients incorporate contrasting or monochromatic colours, paired with different types of textures. Wood accents and mattes are always in demand, making the kitchen design look less boring and easy to match with the interior of your living and dining area. White and neutral colours are always a crowd favourite, but recently the wood stains and accents are in trend.
Below we have highlighted more open plan kitchen design tips we recommend.
5 Open Plan Kitchen Design Recommendations
1. Incorporate Lighting to Highlight Different Areas
Having good lighting is critical in an open plan kitchen space. Since the kitchen is connected to the living and dining area, you want to distinguish the two areas with lighting. No one wants bright white lights used in the kitchen in the living room, vice versa. Good lighting can help create different atmospheres to different parts of your open plan kitchen, such as a bright LED light over your cooktop, and perhaps a dimmable lighting fixture over the living and dining section. Lighting comes in all different shapes and sizes, spots, pendants, table lamps, floor lamps and more. Choosing the right lighting for each area of your open plan kitchen and living area can change the mood significantly.
2. Good Positioning of the Kitchen Island
A freestanding kitchen island is a must-have in an open plan kitchen. Kitchen islands are great for breaking up large spaces and divide different areas. However, it is important to position your kitchen island so that it steers traffic away from kitchen hotspots, such as the oven and cooktop. We recommend placing your kitchen island towards the seating areas instead.
3. Think about the Layout
When designing your open plan kitchen, it is important to think about where guests will sit and where guests will eat. Short-stay seatings, such as breakfast bars need to be ensured it is away from the core cooking zones, but close enough so conversations can flow easily. Think about what section of your floor-plan will be dedicated to living space and what areas will be used for kitchen appliances and dining.
4. Choose Co-Ordinating Colours
Create a sense of flow and unity by keeping to similar colour palettes throughout your open plan kitchen design. However, only having painted walls can be a bore, try incorporating ‘break out’ areas with painted panels, feature walls or a statement rug to create texture and a contrasting effect. However, be sure to use colours and materials that link with other areas of your open-plan kitchen to ‘sew’ the space together.
5. Create a Chill Zone
Clever placement of furniture is an easy way to break up your kitchen and living space. Remember to create a comforting, chill zone to break away from the busy atmosphere of cooking. Try incorporating corner seatings or modular units can be used as a room divider, differentiating the cooking, and living areas.
Kitchen Design Trends and Recommendations for a Closed Plan Kitchen
Current Trends by our Kitchen Designers
Closed plan kitchen designs can be very limited. However, this does not mean there isn’t any clever ways to enhance your space. Our kitchen designers have seen an increase in demand for brighter colours for closed kitchens, as darker dull colours can make the space feel and look heavy.
Below we have highlighted more closed plan kitchen design tips we recommend.
3 Closed Plan Kitchen Design Recommendations
1. Glass Enclosed Doors
Instead of closing your space with basic walls, try incorporating glass enclosed doors. Glass enclosed doors can bring in more light flow to your closed plan kitchen design, whilst still maintaining the closed kitchen affect.
2. Two-Toned Cabinetry
Two-toned cabinetry can keep a closed plan kitchen from looking too flat or sterile. Since closed kitchens consists of a lot of cabinetries, incorporating various of neutral colours and textures through the cabinets can create visual impact and bring warmer and life to the closed off area. Try pairing neutral colours with natural wood accents and stain to your closed kitchen cabinetries.
3. Banquette Seating
A banquette seating is an easy way to contribute a modern feel in your closed plan kitchen. Making a space in the corner of your kitchen for a banquette seating can add a polished comforting look to be used as a quick breakfast nook or coffee area.
The Verdict: What Kitchen Floor Plans do Designers Recommend?
Choosing the right kitchen floor plan can be difficult. Every homeowner have their different wants and needs in a kitchen. Above we have highlighted the two different types of kitchen floor plans: an open plan kitchen and a closed plan kitchen. Although each kitchen comes with its own numerous benefits and kitchen designer recommendations, it is important to find the right kitchen plan for you!
This blog is not built to make the choice for you but to guide you make the right choice! And we hope after reading this blog you have an idea of what kitchen you are after.
As a wrap up for this blog, we asked our kitchen designers, Cici and Dorothy what kitchen floor plan they love.
Cici: “Personally, I like an open plan kitchen as it provided more bonding with my family. I enjoy cooking and talking with my family. When designing my own kitchen, I tend to think about the future, what will I do when family and friends come over? How will guests and my family have conversion? Having these values, an open plan kitchen was best for me. I love having a big island and big open space where you can both entertain and communicate.”
Dorothy: “I prefer an open plan kitchen. I enjoy thinking from a design perspective. An open plan kitchen provides more design opportunities, as well to stay connected with different areas of the house. Having an open plan kitchen can create more of a wow factor and the finishes will be more amazing.”
Is an open plan kitchen a good idea?
The floor plan of your kitchen should support your cooking lifestyle and your personal needs and wants. If you value having open space, family bonding and/or having multiple design options, an open plan kitchen may be fit for you. However, at the end of the day there is no definite answer. It is completely up to you! Consult with one of our kitchen designers to help you find the right kitchen floor plan.
Do you need an extractor fan for an open plan kitchen?
Yes, we definitely recommend our clients installing an extractor fan or any form of ventilation. This prevents odour and fumes for cooking travel to your living area.
Can I install an island in my closed kitchen?
Yes, you absolutely can! However, kitchen islands cannot be installed in small narrow closed kitchens. Kitchen islands can only be installed in bigger closed kitchens. Ensure you have at least 10x12 feet space.
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Please note:Whilst all information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information. The information may change without notice and Superior Renovations is not in any way liabe for the accuracy of any information printed and stored or in any way interpreted and used by a user.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Want to renovate a kitchen in your apartment, villa, condo or any other style of house?
You have landed on the right page. At Superior Renovations, we are your go-to kitchen makeover Auckland specialists. With us, you can transform your dreams to reality and get the kitchen from your dreams.
You might think as though you have few options when it comes to your kitchen makeover in Auckland. However this is far from the truth. A kitchen makeover is a possibility if your kitchen is in the hands of a skilled team . We can transform it into something more functional in terms of convenience and give it a real makeover with the help of our expert designers. – even with a limited budget or building restrictions.
Kitchen Makeover Auckland: Taking Care Of All Styles, Needs And Expectations
We can all agree that kitchens are the undisputed heart of the home. They are the place where everyone gathers, mingles and lingers during parties – and where the magic of cooking happens. They are an essential part of a home. If your kitchen lacks the space or functionalities that you expect, you should definitely consider a kitchen renovation.
Our kitchen makeover specialists can give your kitchen a new life whether you like a modern or a more traditional kitchen design.
Speaking of, our services include but are not limited to:
Modern Kitchen Makeovers:
Modern kitchen makeovers are all about sleek finishes, contemporary design and comfort! The monochromatic palette, streamlined furnishings and well-thought-out storage design that come with modern kitchen makeovers create the illusion of spaciousness. That is why the fuss-free modern kitchen aesthetic is perfect for a smaller space where every inch counts. By incorporating efficient design details and layouts, you can achieve a fantastic kitchen makeover. You will find that a lot of north shore residents opt for modern kitchen makeovers as these sleek designs complement the bay and sea areas.
Here are some of the elements of a modern kitchen:
The colour of your kitchen has a significant impact on your mood and makes a strong impression on people visiting your house. Usually, modern kitchens showcase monochrome hues such as white and black. However, sometimes bright colours are also added for a wow effect.
Storage system. Modern kitchens are all about organization and comfort. You might be wondering: “What does my kitchen makeover need in terms of storage?” A kitchen is made up of a lot of different elements that should be readily available when you need them. Hence, your kitchen makeover in North Shore or any other Auckland suburb needs to include an efficient storage system. Not only does it makes the kitchen look better, but it also adds comfort and efficiency. So you don’t need to look for utensils when you need them. Marie Kondo would be proud!
Traditional kitchen makeovers
Traditional kitchen makeovers are all about sophistication and class. They are famous for traditional architectural elements that originated from the Old World countries like England and France. Elegant lines, craftsmanship and expensive materials are important. Here are some of the most common elements of traditional kitchen makeovers in North Shore (again a high demand in the shore!) area:
Hands down, furniture-style cabinets are the most prominent feature when it comes to traditional kitchen makeovers. They may have mitered door panels, glass inserts and carved trims and decorative embellishments. It’s also essential that the modern kitchen appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers can be covered with cabinet doors.
Stone or quartz countertops. Usually, traditional kitchens showcase natural stone or quartz countertops. Other popular materials are marble and granite. Traditional countertops also feature prominent edging of the stone. The most popular styles are bevel and bullnose edging that adds a distinct look to the traditional kitchen.
See project specifications for Traditional kitchen renovated by us
“Can my kitchen makeover include contemporary elements?” Absolutely! If you’re thinking of giving your existing kitchen a new, modern look, a contemporary style might be right up your alley! The beauty of a contemporary kitchen makeover is defined by sleek design, geometric lines and innovative appliances. Here are some of the elements that define a contemporary-style kitchen:
Cutting-edge appliances. Nothing speaks of a contemporary style than new technology. People all over North Shore have been looking for better appliance performance, lighter materials, durability and advanced features when it comes to contemporary kitchen makeovers. Built-in coffee machines, integrated house systems and high-functioning electronics are among one of the most frequently requested additions to the remodelled kitchen.
A mix of materials. Contemporary design is known for pushing boundaries. One of the most prominent tell signs of a contemporary kitchen makeover is the use of layered materials. Feel free to mix and match different shapes, textures and various types of wood to achieve a sleek, contemporary look.
“I’d like my kitchen makeover to include a cottage-style kitchen design” No problem! Ah, cottage life. Cosy, happy and relaxing, a cottage-style kitchen is a pure heart of the house. A cottage kitchen makeover is all about going back to simpler times and evoking a sense of care-free living. Here are some of our favourite elements of a cottage kitchen makeover:
Open shelving. A cottage-style kitchen usually takes its inspiration from farm-houses and barn-style life. Installed in place of traditional cabinets, open shelves recall the day when a kitchen was more practical than decorative. It also all about practicality: the openness of open shelves help to create an illusion of a larger space.
Farm-house sinks. Also called apron-front sinks, these sinks made a huge come-back in a recent couple of years. They create a sense of country-living and are unfussy enough to work with more modern-style cottage kitchen makeovers.
Rather than going for a clean, sleek look, rustic kitchen renovations turn to simplicity and warmth of the old colonial design. Rustic, Old World-style kitchens are also designed with functionality in mind to accommodate the busiest area of the house. Some of the elements of the rustic kitchen include:
Hardwood floors: Made out of expensive natural wood, hardwood flooring lends for an earthy, countryside living feeling. Solid hardwood suits the rustic kitchen best, especially if it’s unpolished and shows off the wood grain.
Decorative stone. Elements of rock also work great in the rustic kitchen. Whether it is placed in the fireplace hearth or covers an entire wall, it’s a fantastic feature to achieve the rustic look.
A Kitchen Makeover That Looks Fantastic – In Line With Your Budget And Time
At Superior Renovations, we have all the experience and expertise to ensure that your kitchen makeover looks fantastic. We will deliver a great design that is in line with your time and budget. Most importantly, we will make the difference you need and add maximum value to your home.
From layout to materials, concept and overall scope of work, we will show that your kitchen makeover Auckland looks fantastic – and gives you the functionality, versatility and efficiency that you deserve.
You can either have a look at some of our previous kitchen renovations in Auckland – or get in touch with us to show you what we can do for your kitchen.
In the end, it is safe to say that a kitchen remodel in Auckland can give you the greatest return on investment in terms of its resale value – not to mention the functionality and comfort that you will receive as a homeowner.
If you are interested in the latter, all you need is to follow this link and submit your details, or call us directly on the phone.
Already have all your own trades and you’re comfortable managing them for your kitchen renovation?
Although we don’t recommend if you haven’t renovated a kitchen before and/or you don’t have trades people you can trust, most renovations if not all comes with it’s own surprises because not all homes are the same – this is where experience/project management plays an important role in minimises risks to maintain costs/delays giving you higher certainty of outcome/quality backed by associated guarantees and warranties.
However, if you do intend to manage the kitchen renovation yourself, it does work out more cost effective to contact a kitchen cabinetry manufacturer directly to get the kitchen cabinets designed, manufactured and installed – leaving you to manage the other trades such as flooring, demolition, painting, plastering, splashback/tiling, electrician, plumber, and sometimes a carpenter/builder.
Try Little Giant Interiors cost calculator below to see what you can expect to pay for cabinetry.
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
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Kitchens today have a multi faceted role in our lives and are not merely a place where the cooking is done. As we evolve more towards an open style living, our kitchens have become a focal point of how families interact on an everyday basis. It is a place where everyone gets together to cook, it is also a place where family and friends come over and hang around on bar stools while others cook.
This open style living has made it even more important for our kitchens to be functional, have a good kitchen layout and be aesthetically attractive. Having an open plan kitchen means that the aesthetics of the rest of your home is often extended to the kitchen in order to have some continuity.
This guide will discuss elements that go into creating 6 distinct types of kitchens that are popular today. Read this guide if you are thinking of renovating your kitchen or planning an upgrade.
Classic kitchens are supposed to reflect a timeless kitchen design that does not go out of style. They should not however be confused for traditional kitchen designs. Classic kitchens have a neutral palette that gives it a fresh new feel.
As classic kitchens mostly have a neutral palette, they might not be for everyone. They might feel too bland for people who love colours and perhaps too ornate for people who like sleek modern lines for their interiors.
Due to their neutral palette they will easily complement the rest of your home’s interior. If the rest of your home is modern, then a few small changes in your classic kitchen can modernise it.
Colour Schemes in Classic Kitchen Designs
As mentioned above, classic kitchens are meant to have a simple and light design with minor ornate detailing. They are not too dark, traditional, or complicated in their kitchen design. Classic Kitchen designs have a neutral overall colour palette for their walls and cabinets. This however does not have to mean that they need to look bland.
A great way to add some interest and colour is to add a dark countertop/benchtop. Create contrast by adding dark light fixtures, benchtops, flooring, or minor detailing to the neutral colour scheme.
Classic Kitchen we renovated in Epsom
The above kitchen was renovated in a Historic home in Epsom. The previous kitchen was in a traditional style but the new owners wanted a more timeless look for their kitchen. We demolished the previous fixtures and custom built the kitchen in a classic style. See full project specifications: Classic Kitchen renovation in Epsom
Cabinets in Classic Kitchen Designs
Always remember your design brief when choosing fixtures and materials for your classic kitchen design. A classic kitchen needs to be timeless which means that the cabinetry should be chosen keeping simplicity in mind. Too many ornate features on the cabinets will make the kitchen design look too traditional. Instead, opt for shaker style cabinet doors which feature clean lines with a recessed centre in the middle. If you do want to add more details on the cabinets then you can add some bead moulding on the edges.
When renovating classic kitchens, we use Dezignatek Thermoform that is wrapped around the cabinets with minor detailing. Thermoformed doors are of a high quality and are highly durable which makes them a great choice for cabinets in a classic kitchen.
Handles and Doorknobs
A no-handle set up which is often featured in modern kitchens, does not work well for classic kitchens. This style is too modern for a timeless look which means that you should opt for cabinet door handles in your classic kitchen design.
You can also create contrast to an otherwise neutral kitchen with door handles. Try using matte black door handles to add elegance and interest in your classic kitchen design. Shiny handles can make your kitchen look more contemporary.
Benchtops
Although it is quite high-maintenance, marble is one of the essential elements in a traditional kitchen. Granite or Caesar stones can work too, as long as you opt for a monochrome color scheme.
A black marble bench top would provide a great contrast to an overpowering all-white kitchen.
Marble countertops are an essential for classic kitchens. However marble is very hard to maintain and can prove to be very expensive. Alternatives to marble can be stone engineered countertops that can be given a marble or granite look. Stone engineered countertops can be made to look like marble with a design on them and can be made in any colour.
If you want some contrast in your kitchen then you can opt for darker shades for your countertop.
Fixtures and Hardware
A great thing about classic kitchens is that they can be transformed into any other style by mixing elements of different styles within the design.
Sinks and Faucets
Sinks in classic kitchens are usually not chrome or stainless steel. A white butler’s sink works great for classic kitchen designs. If you do not want to butler’s sink, then opt for a Silgranit sink which comes in various colours and textures. More of our clients are going with classic Silgranit sinks as they are more durable and can make your kitchen look more contemporary.
Textured double grey Silgranit Sink used in a Kitchen renovation in Papatoetoe
Antique looking taps with a high spout works in matte brass colours can be within a classic kitchen design to add something of the past and present. If you are not fond of brass looking taps then you can also opt for taps in chrome or other colours as long as they do not look too sleek or ornate.
Astra Walker range from Kitchen Hub has several designs in their classic and contemporary range to choose from for any type of classic kitchen design.
Kitchen Hub’s classic kitchen tapware
Long sprouted curved tap in a kitchen renovation in Epsom
If you are looking for a purely classic theme, then you can use the Astra Walker classic range to add some history and drama to the design. Use matte black fixtures to create contrast or you can use shinier chrome for a more neutral design.
Cooking Range and Splashback
A cooking standalone cooking range which slides in between your cabinets makes for a great focal point in a classic kitchen. A dark grey rangehood with iron grates and upward knobs should be used instead of induction cooktops as they look too modern for a classic kitchen.
A grey cooking range was used with white subway tiles as a backsplash for a timeless classic design – Kitchen renovation in Epsom
The size of your tiles is not important when choosing a splashback for your kitchen design. As mentioned above, it is more the colour palette that is important in a classic kitchens. You can add textured tiles or even marble in neutral colours as your splashback. If you want to add some interest then you can use dark grey grouting between tiles.
Light fixtures
A great way of introducing focal points and interest in your classic kitchen design can be through pendant lighting. A long antique looking pendant lightings which hangs above your island can really lift your kitchen design. Their height can be adjusted to suit the length that you prefer.
This long multi-bulb pendant light was installed above the dining table
Two separate long pendant lights installed above the breakfast Island
We do however suggest only getting a couple of pendant lights for your kitchen as too many of them can give your kitchen a cluttered feel. If you have a large kitchen then you can install wall mounted lighting which do not look to sleek.
Traditional kitchens are all about intricate features in cabinets, ceilings, and countertops. They put an emphasis on details and most traditional kitchens work well in larger spaces. This is because most traditional kitchen designs feature a darker colour palette and a furniture-like pieces that can feel bulky if you have a small area to work in. More modern traditional kitchen designs feature a lighter palette which have dainty and delicate crown mouldings etc which are often seen in old villas and cottages of Auckland.
Colour scheme in Traditional Kitchens
Classic and contemporary kitchens often feature cool colours in their kitchens but the colour scheme in traditional kitchens mostly feature warm colours. Light beige, yellows and shades of brown are often popular in traditional kitchen designs which mimic the kitchens of the past. Having a traditional kitchen does not mean that your kitchen must look dingy, dark or outdates.
Understanding the different shades of brown and yellows and how well they work together can make all the difference in designing a beautiful kitchen that almost mimics Villas in Tuscany and Spain. If you are going with dark cabinets then choose a lighter beige countertop with orange or yellow undertones.
We renovated this Spanish Style Traditional Kitchen in Stanmore Bay, Auckland
The above renovation was done in Stanmore Bay for our client who hailed from the US. She wanted to renovate her closed off kitchen into an open plan kitchen in a traditional style. Her brief was that she wanted her kitchen to feel like a rustic style Spanish Villa. The use of brows, yellows, brass, wood and mosaic are reminiscent of Spanish Villas. See full project specifications – Mary Stuart’s Kitchen Renovation
Mary Stuart’s Rustic Style Traditional Kitchen in Stanmore Bay, Auckland
Since there is a lot of dark colour used in cabinets in a traditional kitchen, we often suggest our clients to go for lighter walls as this will make the rest of your kitchen stand out more. You can also opt for lighter white cabinets if you have a small space, but this is usually seen in cottage style kitchens. We will discuss cottage style kitchen designs later in this article.
Some traditional kitchens also include features and cabinets that are a darker blue and are mostly popular in the UK. These kitchens could also be categorised as country kitchens or cottage style kitchens.
Cabinets in Traditional Kitchen Designs
Cabinets are the star of a traditional kitchen as they are full of character through rich warm colours, details and ornate handles. Unlike contemporary or modern style kitchens which focus on simplicity, traditional cabinets focus on embellished designs for their cabinets. If you want a traditional kitchen design, then stay away from shaker style cabinets or plain smooth ones.
Instead, opt for a more vintage raised panel or a classic raised panel for the cabinet doors. Also stay away from a shiny finish and choose matte materials for your kitchen cabinets. Another great way to incorporate a traditional feel for your kitchen would be to use glass display doors for one side of the wall mounted cabinets. Traditional kitchen designs often feature a mix of open shelves, closed bottom cabinets and a few cabinets that have a glass front door. This will also make you kitchen appear more spacious.
Mary wanted her cabinets to look like they had been made by real wood like Oak or Timber. Oak and Timber are however very expensive especially in New Zealand. We custom built all cabinets with MDF boards and the front panels were made with textured woodgrain ‘Jarrad Legend’ Melteca. This is a highly durable material that does not require much maintenance. We also used rustic looking dull cupboard handles for all cabinetry.
Handles and Doorknobs
Cabinet handles should exude a sense of old-world charm in traditional kitchens. Think brass ornate handles or even drop-down handles for your kitchen cabinet and drawers. If you feel that drop down handles are too bulky or too traditional looking then choose small, rounded knobs for a cleaner look.
You can also look for cabinet handles which are decorative to bring out a more Spanish feel to your kitchen design. If you want a more unified look then use the same doorknobs as the handles for your kitchen cabinets.
Benchtops
As discussed above traditional kitchens are usually found in larger spaces which means that they have an island. Benchtops in traditional kitchens often add a sense of luxury to the overall design. This is because they are often the only shiny element in a traditional kitchen design. The cabinets and other elements of a traditional kitchen are often found in matte finishes so shiny finish benchtop is a great way to add another dimension and depth to the design.
Granite, Quartz and Marble are popular materials for a benchtop in traditional designs. These materials however can prove to be expensive and are hard to maintain. If you have a busy household and do not want to spend time cleaning your benchtop then we would recommend you use a custom-built stone engineered stone for your benchtop.
Most of our clients opt for stone engineered countertops as they are easy to maintain and highly durable. They are also very versatile when it comes to design features as they can be custom built in any colour or texture. We often recommend our clients to use light beige with inbuilt patters for benchtops in traditional kitchens as they complement the darker cabinets well.
Custom built stone engineered countertop used for Mary’s kitchen. We made this engineered stone look like pattered granite with a shiny sheen. The pattern chosen above is called Autumn leaf and like its name has yellow and mustard undertones which complements the dark cabinets well.
Fixtures and Hardware for Traditional Kitchens
You can choose your fixtures based on how traditional you want your kitchen design to be. If you are going for a very traditional design, then keep your appliances ornate and follow our guide below. If you want to include elements of a contemporary or classic design, then simply include fixtures from contemporary or classic designs. Classic and contemporary kitchens complement traditional designs so you will still be able to achieve a symbiotic design. Modern design fixtures however do not go well with traditional styles and hence should not be incorporated into a traditional kitchen design.
Sinks and Faucets
The things that make a traditional kitchen are its details. If you are going for a more Tuscan style or Spanish style traditional kitchen then use brass sinks and long arched brass faucets. If you are however going for more English style kitchen then use chrome taps with ornate details and a separate hot and cold tap.
Brass sink and dull brass tap used to make the kitchen look rustic yet traditional
Cooking Range and Splashback
Traditionally cooking ranges were not mounted on a benchtop with screws which has become a growing trend now for contemporary and modern kitchens. Traditional kitchens mostly feature a standalone cooking top with canopy style rangehood. They are usually gas burning and are slid in between two countertops.
Fixed Gas Hob
If you do not want the slide in type of cooktop then you can also get a gas hob with grills which can be screwed on top of the countertop. The canopy style rangehood however can still be attached over the gas hob to bring out a more traditional feel.
Splashbacks in traditional kitchens should be kept simple in design. This is so that your countertops and cabinets remain the star of the show. You can use either tiled splashbacks in light beige or neutral colours. Keep the finish of your splashbacks on the duller and matte side and do not go for an overly shiny finish.
Light fixtures in any kitchen should be installed in a way that they highlight all the working areas in the kitchen. This is important as a lot of kitchen designs end up looking dingy if they are not properly lit. Traditional kitchens often have a chandelier that is installed above the island and ornate wall mounted lighting on the walls. If you feel like a chandelier is making your kitchen look too bulky and busy then you can also opt for pendant lighting which have a more antique feel to them. If you have cabinets on the top half of your kitchen then you will be unable to install wall mounted lighting. In such cases you can also install lights lamps that hang closer to the ceiling. A great way to create interest is to add some stained-glass lamps on the ceiling.
The term modern kitchens and contemporary kitchens are often used interchangeably these days. This however is not entirely correct. While some elements do overlap for these two designs, they are fundamentally different. While the term ‘modern design’ refers to a design movement that begun in the 1940’s, which completely broke from the traditional kitchen designs.
It is important to understand the difference between contemporary and modern kitchens before you finalise your kitchen design. Contemporary kitchens reflect the trends of today and often feature various patterns and colours in their design. Saying this, contemporary designs usually borrow elements from other styles as old trends are always coming back in fashion. They also use renovation materials that are of the current era for example stone engineered benchtops. One of the biggest differences of modern and contemporary kitchens is that modern kitchens lack ornamentation. Contemporary kitchen designs on the other hand are a marriage of various styles and patterns which can also be ornamental depending on the trends of today.
Modern Kitchen renovated in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland
Modern Kitchens feature a clean uncluttered look and were revolutionary for their time as they broke free from traditional kitchens. See full project details – Full Kitchen renovation in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland.
Contemporary Kitchen renovation in Massey, Auckland
The contemporary Kitchen is very different from modern kitchens as it is constantly evolving to include trends of the day in their kitchen designs. See full project details – Guru and Neeta’s Kitchen renovation in Massey, Auckland
In this section we will discuss the differences and similarities between modern and contemporary kitchens and the design elements that make each design possible.
Similarities of Contemporary and Modern Kitchen designs
Contemporary and modern styles favour a seamless and uncluttered overall look for their kitchens. They feature clean lines smooth spaces that exude a comfortable and calm vibe in the room. The features seen in contemporary and modern kitchens are not cumbersome, bulky, or ornate.
Both types of designs often integrate shiny surfaces and materials such as stainless steel, other metals or glass. Contemporary designs also feature lots of wooden elements such as countertops or a feature wall. This should not be confused with all wooden cabinets found in traditional kitchens. The wood used in contemporary kitchens is usually raw and without any ornate details. While modern kitchens have a ‘no fuss’ design, contemporary kitchens often borrow elements from other styles and can incorporate elements from traditional, modern, classic, or industrial kitchens depending on the trend of the day.
In short, the similarities of both styles are as follows:
Both have a minimalistic look to them
They both exude an open space feel which is calming
Clean architectural line is the hallmark of both these designs.
What makes a Contemporary kitchen design?
Contemporary kitchens are ever evolving, and their design changes every decade or so to reflect the new trends of the decade. Contemporary kitchen designs borrow elements from various styles like art deco, traditional, industrial, and modern designs.
Contemporary kitchens are simple and minimalistic but have a layered look which comes from using several materials, patterns, and textures.
Contemporary Kitchen renovation in Parnell, Auckland
The above renovation has a contemporary design with a no-handle set up, soft close cabinets, marble look-alike benchtop, hexagonal tiled backsplash, silgranit sink with a hot water tap, and concrete floors. This is a great example of how current trends are incorporated within the overall kitchen design. See full project details – Luxury Kitchen renovation in Parnell, Auckland
Cabinets
The cabinets in contemporary kitchen have clean lines, are sleek and lack ornamentation. They are built in a simple rectangle or square and are constructed as a full overlay. Little to no cabinet frame can be seen which gives it a seamless look. The cabinet fronts do not have any ornamentation and are completely smooth. The cabinets usually feature a no-handle set up with LED lights that give it a more futuristic look. As contemporary designs are all about latest conveniences and trends, they have creative storage solutions like ‘magic corners’, pull out drawer pantries and hidden bins.
Yellow LED lights installed below the countertop which provides a great contrast to black cabinets
White LED lights installed below the top cabinets to highlight the backsplash and cooking range
Technology
Technology plays a vital role in a contemporary kitchen design. The electronics are sleek and high functioning. Induction cooktops built in coffee machines and commercial grade appliances are often seen in contemporary kitchens.
All LED lights in this kitchen can be made dimmer or brighter with this central remote
The above plug points can be pushed back into the countertop when not needed
Colour scheme
While lots of contemporary kitchens stick to a grey, black, or white, there is ample ways that colours ca be infused into their kitchen design. If colour is added then it is often pure saturated tones. Contemporary kitchens often feature bold colours and have a larger colour palette. You will often see an accent wall with a bold colour or patterns. They also include splashbacks that come in various shapes and textures. Some contemporary kitchen designs make a bold impact with coloured countertops or cabinets.
As mentioned above, contemporary kitchens have a layered look about them which is achieved through various textures, colours, and shapes. This is a huge difference between modern and contemporary kitchens. Concrete, wood, concrete, stainless steel, and glass are great examples of materials that are used in combination to give a layered look. Stainless steel is especially popular in contemporary kitchens as it makes a kitchen look more commercial which has been a prominent trend of today.
Concrete is also often featured in contemporary design as it is a material used in industrial designs. Industrial designs have become increasingly popular in the last few years and will be growing stronger in the next decade. Today’s contemporary design borrows several elements from industrial kitchens. The most popular is the use of concrete for flooring and benchtops. Other elements include tapware and pendant lighting. Glass tiles are also featured in contemporary kitchens. They can be used as a backsplash or cabinet doors.
Poured concrete floor was chosen for this kitchen in Parnell
Hexagonal textured tiled used as a backsplash
More Contemporary Kitchen Renovations in Auckland:
Modern kitchens first emerged in 1940s as a break from traditional kitchens. They were suddenly an extension of the living and dining room as opposed to a separate room. This made it necessary for the kitchen to look good along with being functional. The key features of modern kitchens is clean sleek lines and no embellishments or ornamentation.
Like contemporary cabinets, a modern kitchen design has a full overlay over the cabinets which means that you cannot see the frame of the cabinets. They also feature slab door and cabinet fronts without any design on them. This gives it a smooth and sleek look which the hallmark of modern design. These cabinets also have sleek door cabinet handles and do not have a no-handle set up.
Simple slab door fronts with long handles – Modern kitchen in Blockhouse Bay
Another example of plain slabs used for cabinets – Modern kitchen in Avondale
In both the pictures seen above, white has been used as a dominant colour for the kitchen with flooring the only contrasting feature colour wise. The picture on the left has handles as seen in most modern kicthens while there are no handles in the kitchen seen on the right.
Modern kitchen designs do not have pattered tiles, multiple shapes, textures, and colours in their design. The countertops, benchtops, cabinet fronts and backsplash have a smooth surface without any veining or texture.
Highlighting natural materials
Highlighting the natural materials is key in creating a beautiful modern kitchen. Use horizontal grain of Oak or manufactured Oak for your cupboards. For benchtops think marble or stone engineered stone without any veins. Always remember to keep the elements as simple as possible. Let the quality of materials shine through.
Horizontal Lines
Modern kitchen designs often emphasise on horizontal lines in their kitchen design. The look could include long wide lines of stacked cabinets that are stacked in a row. This could also be done by installing a splashback or an accent wall which has wide horizontal panels stacked together on top of each other.
Choose elements that are of a similar colour and design.
All elements in a modern kitchen are chosen in a similar design and colour with no ornamentation. Think of pendant lights, dining chairs, bar stoons and tables. They should all be simple and in similar shades of colours of each other. This creates a clean and sleek look which is what a modern design is about.
Modern kitchens are all about highlighting good quality materials in their design. Think about quality when choosing a benchtop for your modern kitchen. Quartz is a great choice for modern kitchens are they need no design or ornamentation to look and feel good.
Quartz can prove to be a very expensive material in New Zealand so you can try and find alternatives to fit your budget. Today’s technology allows us to engineer materials to emulate the look and feel of quartz at a lower cost.
Cottage style kitchen designs are supposed to exude a sense of warmth, comfort, and cosiness. Their design is inspired from old English cottage kitchens which are inviting, homely and a place for the family to get together. They often feature a small dining area within the kitchen space and is supposed to have a casual feel.
Many people are reverting to a cottage styled kitchen for their villas, bungalows or baches in rural areas as they complement the rest of the exterior architecture of such homes.
Cottage Style Kitchen Renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland
The above kitchen was renovated to reflect the abundant nature around the house. Our client wanted a cottage style kitchen which was inviting. It features tiled wooden lookin floors, real wood which was treated in order to preserve it, white recessed cabinets with cup style pulls, open floating shelves and a butler’s sink. See full project details – Cottage Style Kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland
Colour Palette
If you think about cottages, you always think of a light palette. Neutral whites, beige, light pinks, and pale blues work best in cottage style kitchens. Pale pink and blue can however make your kitchen look a bit dated, so we mostly recommend our clients from using shades of white or light beige for their kitchens. Buttercup yellow is also a nice way to infuse some colour in cottage style kitchens. You can however incorporate colour within the kitchen by choosing natural wooden looking benchtops or cabinet handles.
Cabinets and Handles
We recommend using shaker style cabinets with minor detailing for an overall vintage look. Choose a light colour for your cabinets and create contrast by adding matte black handle. You could also incorporate a free-standing cabinet with a sliding glass door to display crockery. Add some corbels under your upper cabinets which is a very common feature for cottage kitchens.
For handles think about brass, or matte black simple knobs or cup-style drawer pulls. Cup style drawer pulls complement a white shaker style cabinet very well and add to the cottage style.
Open Shelving
Open shelving was very popular in older cottages as they allowed cooks to easily retrieve cooking utensils. They were often found in place of today’s upper cabinetry and were also installed as building additional upper cabinets was expensive. Open shelves today are mostly used for decorative purposes. You can also use them to store your cups, plates, and other crockery to create some interest.
Floating Shelves built from real wood to store cups as well as a decorative feature
Sinks and Tap-ware
We recommend installing a butler style sink for your cottage style kitchen. These sinks are large, rectangular and very deep which means that they also have a practical advantage over other types of sinks. Butler’s sinks are usually made of ceramic and you will be able to wash your biggest pot comfortably in it.
A classic butler’s sink installed which is one of the hallmarks of a cottage style kitchen
You can pair your sink with old English looking taps with a separate handle for hot and cold water. Kitchen Hub’s Astra walker collection has an ‘olde English’ range which works great with a Butler style sink. You can either use a brass toned colour or go for a classic chrome.
Benchtop
Having a benchtop in a brown shade or using real treated wood is a great way to add some contrast and colour to your country style kitchen. Most country kitchens feature wooden benchtops, but they are not always very practical. One of our clients in Mangere Bridge, Auckland wanted a wooden benchtop for her country style kitchen, so we treated it in a way that it would avoid future wear and tear.
American Ashwood was stained to walnut for the desired colour. Steps were then taken to treat it in a way that it would last for a long time
We used American Ashwood as a countertop for the above renovation. It was then stained to a walnut colour which was a perfect shade to for this design. After staining, we applied Epoxy Urethin Vinyl on the benchtop as well as the floating shelves. This was done to prevent the wood from rotting and to avoid wear and tear. This would have to be re-applied every 15 years. After the coating we finally applied varnish to give it some lustre. The varnish will have to be re-applied every couple of years in order to maintain the shine. See full project specifications – Cottage style kitchen renovation in Mangere Bridge, Auckland
Wall Panelling
Wall panelling was a big part of interior design in the past. Homes designed in the traditional style featured dark panelled walls in most rooms. Cottages on the other hand had white panelled walls with vertical grooves. They were usually found in whites or creams or the same colour as the cabinets. This however might feel dated today so instead install dull subway tiles between the countertops for a similar but more contemporary feel.
Cottage style kitchens mostly feature hardwood floors to give them a nice warm homely feel. This also creates a contrast with cabinets that are often found in light colours. Hardwood floors however are not very practical as they require high maintenance and are also expensive.
An alternative to hardwood floors would be to use tiles that emulate hardwood floors in texture, design, and aesthetics. These tiles are easy to source, install and are very easy to maintain.
Lighting
Olden day cottages did not have recessed lighting and had to depend on pendant style lighting for their kitchens. Low hanging pendant lighting also makes a space feel homely and inviting. You can either choose vintage inspired lighting or have a stained-glass pendant lighting to add further interest.
Industrial styled homes and kitchens depend on their materials for the overall look of their design. Materials such as iron, concrete and cement are often highlighted in industrial styled kitchens. They also feature high ceilings, large windows, and exposed brick. The style first originated from the USA and is sometimes also referred to as New York style apartment design. This design first started in homes that looked like loft style or warehouse style apartments. If designed well, this style can be replicated within normal homes designs in Auckland. Following are some key features that will help you design an industrial styled kitchen for your home.
Open Space and a minimalistic look
One of the most obvious traits of an industrial kitchen is open space and high ceilings. The rough look has become increasingly popular because of its ‘airy’ nature. Typically, you’ll find brick walls, rustic furniture and exposed pipes and beams in an industrial style kitchen, with appliances often dressed in stainless steel. The rough textures blend perfectly with the smooth steel surfaces to form a harmony.
Industrial Kitchen
This Industrial Kitchen is a great example of how this design works best in a high ceiling room. You will an exposed air duct at the top of the kitchen which gives the kitchen a raw rustic look. The design includes a large polished concrete island which doubles as a dining area with metal stools. The materials used in this design are the real stars of the show with an overall minimalistic look.
Think of a rough and not overly processed look for your industrial kitchen design. One of the most obvious features of this design is an open plan space with a minimalistic look. The ceilings are high, and all the pipes and beams are exposed. The overall look of this style is however minimalistic without any frills or details on their cabinets or walls. The combination of different materials, their rough texture and raw feel are the highlights of this design.
Materials used in an Industrial Kitchen Design
Cement
Cement is often featured in this design due to its versatility. It can be used wither as a waterfall edged benchtop, as a floor or a splashback. If you are using it as a splashback then we would recommend you use it as a smooth texture so that cleaning is easier.
Brick
Rough looking brick walls can make your space instantly look like an industrial kitchen. If your home is not made of brick then you can also create a false brick wall or you can even use textured brick look alike vinyl.
Iron
Another key element of an industrial kitchen design is iron. Use iron bar stools, furniture, lamps, light fixtures, and shelves for an overall industrial look.
Wood
Using wood in the design will add some warmth to your kitchen design. However, do not use overprocessed or over-polished wood and let is have unpolished and rough edges. You can use wood for the front of your cabinets or even as a countertop.
Exposed Brick on opposite walls give this relatively classic kitchen an industrial feel
Stainless Steel
As most of the elements in an industrial kitchen have a matte finish. This can make the design however look a bit dull. Shiny stainless-steel appliances and a big professional looking gas hob can add some depth in the design.
The tapware used in this kitchen gives the kitchen a raw feel. The tapware in this picture is from Kitchen Hub’s Watermark collection which makes tapware for industrial styled kitchens
Colour Palette
Most Urban industrial kitchens have a colour palette between grey, brown, and black. You can also add some bold saturated hues as red or mustard. You can use this for your backsplash or even as your benchtop. Another great way of incorporating colours is through furniture like bar stools and lighting accents.
Lighting
Low hanging pendant lighting over countertops and islands in steel or iron is great for industrial themed kitchens. You could even use high hanging exposed bulbs without a screen which is becoming increasingly popular.
Statement Art Pieces
The industrial style was conceived to give a platform to artists which means that they often have iconic pictures of people or movements within their design. They do not have traditional painting but gravitate towards modern and abstract art.
Yes, we do have an In-house Kitchen designer who will help you create a Kitchen design for your kitchen renovation. We provide all our clients with 3D drawings when we create a proposal for you.
What kind of Kitchen layout is best for me?
This will depend on various factors. Read our article on Planning your layout for a functional and practical kitchen design here to understand more about the layout that is right for you : https://superiorrenovations.co.nz/kitchen-layout-planning-guide-to-achieving-a-good-kitchen-design
Do I have to get my own plumbers and electricians?
We provide a full renovation service for any given area. This means that our service will include design, demolition, sourcing of all renovation materials from local supplier showrooms, custom built cabinetry, installation of all cabinets, flooring, fixtures, project management and all trades like electricians, plumbers, grouters, builders, tilers, and any other trades.
Still have questions unanswered? schedule a no-obligation consultation with the team at Superior Renovations
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services – Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Whether you are renovating your home or preparing to put it on the market for a sale, you should know that renovating your bathroom renovation can be a great way to add value and interest to your home and is definitely worth the investment.
Nowadays, bathroom renovations are more than just popular. They can add a sense of true rest and relaxation. The idea of a bathroom that resembles a spa with a giant soaker tub, double-headed shower and separate sinks definitely puts the “rest” in what a restroom should look like.
Myths About Bathroom Renovations In North Shore
When dreaming about a bathroom renovation, you should think realistically. For example, a cost of a remodel will definitely pay off in the long run. Still, bathroom renovations in North Shore are also associated with many myths. Below, we are debunking most of them.
Cracks will cost you thousands in repairs
First of all is the myth associated with cracks – seen by Aucklanders as something that may cost you thousands of dollars for a single repair. However, the truth is that most of the cracks are a result of small seasonal expansion and contraction – which means that there is no structural failure.
A wallpaper will work just anywhere
Even though many people in New Zealand are confident that a wallpaper works anywhere, you should know that in most of the cases, improperly hung wallpapers look horrible. Also, it is safe to say that a wallpaper is after all a long-term investment and you must consider how it will look after three, five and ten years from now.
DIY will save you money
Doing bathroom renovations in North Shore by yourself do not always translate to big bangs for the buck. In other words, things like major roofing projects, electrical repairs and structural work are best left to the expertise of a professional. At the end of the day, it’s always better to know and admit your (DIY) limits.
White bathroom walls will help you sell
Planning a sale of your home usually starts with a budget for bathroom renovations in North Shore. If you decide to paint your bathroom walls white (in order to save money), you should know that nowadays, painting a bathroom white may make it dull and boring. Instead, adding splashes of color tastefully will help you sell a home and get a better price on it.
Tip to maximise the ROI of your Bathroom Renovation
Don’t change the position of your plumbing
Choose alternatives to tiling such as laminate or vinyl
Use an acrylic shower box instead of tiled
Choose lower-end fittings/fixtures
DIY the painting process
In the end, it is safe to say that bathroom renovations in North Shore positively impact the resale value of your home. They attract more serious buyers and can help you sale your home in a quicker way. Aside from this, most of them are cost-effective and result in a more functional and comfortable space.
Need more information?
Take advantage of our FREE Complete Home Renovation Guide (48 pages), whether you’re already renovating or in the process of deciding to renovate, it’s not an easy process, this guide which includes a free 100+ point check list – will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Superior Renovations is quickly becoming one of the most recommended Kitchen Renovation & Bathroom Renovation company in Auckland and it all comes down to our friendly approach, straightforward pricing, and transparency. When your Auckland home needs renovation/ remodeling services, Superior Renovation is the team you can count on for high-quality workmanship, efficient progress, and cost-effective solutions.
Get started now by booking a free in-home consultation.
*Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Mastercard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Book A Free Design to Build Consultation
Expert advice in the comfort of your own home, book now and speak to one of our designers about your renovation project. We’d love to hear from you!
From the very first consultation, our experience with this team has been nothing short of stellar. Working with Eunice, our sales consultant, set a high bar for the rest of the project. Eunice is truly exceptional at what she does. When we first began our kitchen project, we went through several versions of our floor plan, and she was with us every step of the way—from the initial planning stages right through to the final concept. Her patience and dedication during the design process were remarkable. Throughout the project, Eunice provided: * **Invaluable Suggestions:** She has a keen eye for both aesthetics and functionality, pointing out details we never would have considered on our own. * **Seamless Adjustments:** No matter how many tweaks we requested, she handled every change with professionalism and a "can-do" attitude. * **Expert Guidance:** She transformed our vague ideas into a cohesive, stunning reality. Once the planning was complete, Neil, our project manager, took the reins and truly blew us away. Neil is a consummate professional who balances technical expertise with fantastic communication. He kept us informed at every stage, ensuring we knew exactly what to expect and when. Whenever a minor pivot was needed, Neil handled it with grace and efficiency, keeping the timeline on track. His standards for the renovation work were incredibly high, ensuring the final result was polished and beautiful. The transition from Eunice’s initial planning to Neil’s execution was flawless. If you are looking for a team that combines design expertise with top-tier project management, look no further. We are absolutely thrilled with our new kitchen and new flooring !
Rob Ducker
3 weeks ago
Superior Renovations has just finished a complete remodel of my bathroom. I can see, why the company has such a high reputation. At every stage, from sales, design, project management, and execution, the company excelled at every point. I am just so happy with the work that they have done and they have exceeded my expectations at every point.
Mark Whelan
3 weeks ago
Used Superior for a kitchen and bathroom renovation last year. They did an excellent job updating both rooms, communication was excellent ongoing tjrough the project, they coordinated all the tradies, synchronized so there was little downtime, and it all worked exactly as planned and on budget. Was really glad we chose Superior Renovations and plan to use again for our entrance way at some stage.
Libby Campion
3 weeks ago
As I said to my work colleagues ‘I have just had the most pleasant experience’. When they realised it was with renovations at home they were shocked - ‘unheard of’ I was told. Everything went to plan - timing, project management, costs, etc, etc. Neil communicated with me daily and made my whole bathroom renovation a pleasure. The best decision I made was choosing Superior Renovations. Thank you Kevin for our initial connection and for passing me on to Neil to manage the whole process.
Jason Cho
3 weeks ago
We just finished a bathroom renovation and couldn’t be happier with the results. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and the attention to detail in the tiling and finishing is impressive. The team was professional, kept the workspace clean, and delivered exactly what we envisioned. Highly recommend them for anyone looking for a high-quality transformation.
Sue B
1 month ago
Superior did an excellent job of renovating our ensuite. Project manager Jacob was easy to work with and communications were good.
davidee wang
1 month ago
This is our second review for Superior Renovations. They have done two projects earlier this year and we were so impressed by the work they have finished. After discussing and very careful consideration, we decided to go with more projects with them. So far, they have now completed stage 1 renovation of our house. We still amazed for their knowledge and services; they really listen to us and discuss anything with us if they feel/think could be better… From the first day we work with them, we have no issue with them at all, from communication, discussing, designing to the teams working on the site. Especially we are highly recommended to those who are considering doing the house renovation, please contact them and you will know why we are so pleased to have them to do our house renovation. We are thanking Cici, Neil and the teams so much…. We are looking forward to seeing what the outcome will be.
David and Emily
Spencer Aung
2 months ago
We recently had our bathroom renovated by Superior Renovations and couldn’t be happier with the experience. Dorothy and Neil were an absolute pleasure to work with. They guided us through every step of the process, making what can be a stressful experience feel smooth and straightforward. The quoting process was transparent and detailed, with no hidden fees or surprises. Neil was incredibly responsive and always available whenever we had questions or requests, which gave us real peace of mind throughout the project. We really love the end result and enjoy our new bathroom! We’ll definitely be returning to the Superior Reno team for our next project. Highly recommended!
LCB
3 months ago
Our bathroom reno has just been completed & I am so happy. The whole process was easy & hassle free. Alison designed our bathroom & was very patient with our changes/then changes back again. Jacob our project manager was a delight to deal with. He always kept us informed of the scheduling & any other information we may have needed. All the tradies worked hard & the job was completed & signed off within 3 weeks. That's demo, full tiling, installation of new everything & delivery & pick up of the skip down a very tricky driveway. We absolutely love the new bathroom & would recommend Superior Renovations everyday. Future jobs I will definitely be contacting them again. Thank so much for your excellent work
Wendy McLaughlin
4 months ago
Having explored our reno options, it was an easy decision to select Superior Renovations for our work. As first timers at anything like this we had to trust the system with grand old 100year old bungalow. We were so pleased to have Cici, Sonny and Kai working with us the whole way through. Be shout out to all the team, builders, plumbers, electricians, tilers and painters. A superb job delivered on budget and ahead of time. The communication from Cici and Sonny was first class. Would highly recommend working with Superior Renovations in fact, we already have more worked booked in. Thanks Superior you made Millie and Monty's parents very happy. 🐾
Irene Yap
5 months ago
I am very happy with the recent renovation for my new kitchen. The team worked really hard to get it done within the time frame. The manager, Jacob, was very helpful and communicated well and always sorts out any issue immediately. Thank you Irene
Jesse_G
7 months ago
We couldn’t be happier with our new pergola! From start to finish, the team was professional, punctual, and easy to work with. They took the time to listen to what we wanted and offered great suggestions to make the design even better. The quality of the materials and workmanship is outstanding — everything feels solid, well-built, and beautifully finished. Kudos to Sinan Sun as she has been an amazing contact with the company.
Alex Scott
8 months ago
We are very pleased with our bathroom reno by Superior Renovations! Jacob, Cici and the team always kept us up to date, were always friendly to deal with and finished ahead of schedule. Most importantly we are very happy with the quality of the work.
Simon Redpath
8 months ago
We have been working with Superior Renovations as a supplier now for over three years. In that time we have found the team to be very professional and well organised. Which is a welcome relief in this industry! Just recently we have become their sole supplier for portaloos, which recognises the collaboration we have forged over these three years.
In particular, Leanne and Elaine set a very high standard of communication and flexibility. This is of vital importance when scheduling deliveries and pickups with us, however, they understand not everything can be done at once and are willing to work with us for the best (supplier/contractor/client) outcome.
I would imagine this ethos would flow directly through to all their contracted renovation work. A pleasure to work with!
Hammer “AAAAA”
8 months ago
A very reliable supplier – we’ve been working with them for three years now, and they have never let us down. Well done to the team.
Sam McCool
8 months ago
We have been working with these guys for the past 4 years and find them an awesome company to work with, very efficient and organised. I highly recommend!
Word True
8 months ago
Finding someone reliable for renovations has always been the most stressful thing for us. In the past, we had several painful renovation experiences—money was spent but the problems were never truly solved, and things often ended up worse than before. We really didn’t know where to find a trustworthy renovation company.
For more than ten years, our wish had been to renovate our bathroom, laundry, and toilet, so that we could finally enjoy a comfortable and functional living environment. Just when we were about to give up, we came across Superior Renovations online. We quickly made an appointment with Cici, who designed and provided us with a quote.
Throughout the whole process, I was deeply impressed by the professionalism of Superior Renovations. What stood out most was that they always delivered on their promises—everything agreed upon was completed on time. This built a relationship of trust and reliability. Up until completion, I was completely satisfied with their dedication and the quality of their workmanship.
During the renovation, we encountered some of the challenges that often come with older houses, but Cici and her team helped us resolve the discomforts we had been living with for years. We are truly grateful to the construction team.
Some say renovations are easy if you just have money, but I believe the most important thing is finding a trustworthy team that keeps their word, values quality, and cares about the customer’s experience.
Because of this renovation experience, we can now confidently plan our next project—the kitchen—and Superior Renovations will definitely be our first choice. We strongly recommend them.
Finally, I want to thank Cici and the team for helping us fulfill our dream.
Mark ＆ Kate
Jane Wright
8 months ago
Sinan is a very good consultant. She helps a lot during renovation. Very satisfied with their job.
Clara Ng
10 months ago
It was great to have Alison's recommendations and input on how & what would look best for our kitchen and bathroom reno. Jacob, our project manager, has been a star too; ensuring that the project was delivered as planned, AND giving us great ideas & suggestions along the way.
We will definitely be calling on you guys again for our next home reno. Thanks team!
Frank
12 months ago
Very impressed with Superior Renovations.Building our pergola with blinds for a fair price .First thank you Sinan for quoting the job and your flexabilty and knowledge..Secondly the job was done well within the time frame, thanks to Jeff for supervising the job ( eventhough he wasn't too well) and keeping us up to date throughout the process. Payment was fair and easy as well . Thoroughly recommend Superior Renovations for your reno job 👍
Raj Dhana
1 year ago
Very efficient team of workers and high quality finish. Very happy with our renovated bathroom. We will use this company again.
neko rider
1 year ago
We’re very happy with the renovation work done by the team. It’s rare for renovation projects to finish on time, but they committed to completing ours before the Easter holiday—and they delivered! Our project manager, Jacob, worked incredibly hard (even physically! 😄) to make it happen.
I admit I might not have been the easiest client—I was particular about details like colours, tile placement, and exactly where the hand basin bowl should sit on the bench. But they listened, took it all on board, and got it done. Thank you, Jacob! I’ll definitely bring you another challenge in the future. 😉
Vilma Arcos
1 year ago
Thanks Superior Renovations for doing our house, it definitely looks a lot better now! Special thanks goes to Alison and Jacob for their excellent effort and good manners in handling the construction process, it wasn't easy but with them around it definitely became easier to handle. Cheers🥂
F J Bandukwala
1 year ago
Absolutely thrilled with the outcome of our renovation of two bathrooms and kitchen in a double level home. Kevin and his entire team were an absolute pleasure to work with from the get-go. Every minor detail was attended to, and all our requests were accommodated. Cyrus deserves a special mention as under his watchful eye and expertise, nothing could go wrong.
Jacquie
2 years ago
I have recently finished a renovation in our 1930’s bungalow, updating the original (and I do mean original) kitchen and bathroom. Plus creating a new laundry and removing three fireplaces which created two new spaces including an office. From the initial appointment with Alison who came over and then provided drawings and a quotation, to the work with Frank, our project manager and the team, this has been a wonderful renovation experience. I would have described myself as a nervous-renovator prior to doing this, as I had never done a renovation before, but Frank, Alison, Sunny and all the team have worked so tirelessly and generously to create spaces that we love. Superior’s care in managing the project has meant that we have come away with much more than we originally sought to achieve and without the stress I hear others lament about when they renovate. I would recommend Frank, Alison, Sunny and the team at Superior Renovations wholeheartedly.
Ike Harris
2 years ago
We engaged with three companies to completely renovate our downstairs and ensuite bathrooms. We elected to go with Superior Renovations as they provided us with a fixed price and specific timeline to complete the project (which two other companies could not do), and we were absolutely delighted with the end result. We love everything from the floor and wall tiles to the heated towel rails and from the LCD mirrors to the underfloor heating and soft close lids. We especially loved replacing the old tub in our ensuite with a walk-in shower.
The entire process went incredibly smoothly, with the project being completed on budget and ahead of schedule. From the initial design phase to the final touches, nothing was too much trouble for the team. Superior Renovations conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Frank (Project Manager) and the team did such an amazing job. Totally professional outfit, top notch communication, all tradies were courteous, polite and respectful. Alex (Builder) was especially knowledgeable and offered great solutions as minor issues unfolded. Each stage of the renovation was completed on the day it was scheduled. The crew were always on time and mindful of our work from home arrangements. And I was also impressed with the floor protection that was laid out on the first day.
Through no fault of Superior, we did encounter a major, unforeseen setback that delayed our renovation on the downstairs bathroom. Superior were patient with us while we sourced specialists to remedy the issue. But once that was all sorted, Frank and the team picked up the baton and charged ahead to the finish line, delivering two beautifully ‘superior’ bathrooms. We also experienced a minor electrical issue post-build. And even though it was unrelated to their renovation work, Frank promptly dispatched an electrician who quickly fixed the problem. Talk about above and beyond!
In summary, we highly recommend Superior Renovations for anyone looking to undertake bathroom renovations in their home. We’re already talking about renovating the kitchen next and we’re so confident in Superior Renovations that we will most certainly be engaging with them to complete the task.
A huge thank you to Frank, Alex and all the wonderful team at Superior Renovations:)
Greg Paget
2 years ago
recommends
Just had my ensuite fully gutted and renovated. Very happy indeed. Great quality work, great communication throughout the process, and mostly great people to work with. Highly recommended.
Kalina Hristova
2 years ago
Superior Renovations did an amazing job we would definitely recommend them for anyone looking for a high quality outcome. Our Project Manager Jacob was amazing, taking care of any minor adjustments we wanted, nothing was too much trouble.
Melanie Whittaker
2 years ago
Absolutely love my new ensuite bathroom. Superior Renovations made the process so enjoyable, I'm truly delighted with the transformation from an old tired room to modern functionality. Jacob led a wonderful team of professionals who were considerate and efficient. He answered any query with reassurance and patience. I'm now looking at engaging them again for my main bathroom because I'm not fearful of renovating anymore and confident I'll get a superior outcome. They definitely lived up to their name!
Carolina Guerra
2 years ago
Superior Renovations transformed our bathroom, and we couldn’t be happier. Cici, Jacob, Alex, and Ray were a fantastic team (Ray, our dog, is going to miss you). They tackled our old house’s quirks with creativity and attention to detail. We were especially impressed that they stayed within budget, even with a few surprises along the way. We’d definitely choose Superior Renovations again and highly recommend them.
Regina Cho
2 years ago
Thanks Sunny, Jacob and the team for a great renovation. We had 2 bathrooms, the laundry room and front door re-done and very pleased with the results.
Kalpana Iyer
2 years ago
Superior Renovations did a good job for our deck, they are professional and took on board any changes suggested by us and gave good ideas and advice.
They took care of cleaning up all the mess after every job.
Good value for money.
Special mention to Cici, Frank & all the workers.😊 Thank you so much
Highly recommended 👍😊
Narelle Silwood
2 years ago
It was a pleasure to work with Jacob and his team. They installed a lovely new kitchen which met all my requirements, it arrived on schedule and I was kept informed all the way through the project. Thanks Jacob ... you did a great job. Narelle
Gavin Botica
2 years ago
I recently engaged the services of Superior Renovations for a complete renovation of my kitchen and bathroom, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The entire process went incredibly smoothly, with the project being completed on budget and ahead of schedule. From the initial design phase to the final touches, nothing was too much trouble for the team. They conducted themselves with the utmost professionalism, ensuring every detail was perfect. I highly recommend Superior Renovations for anyone looking to renovate their home.
Chinchien Lin
2 years ago
We have our bathroom renovation scheduled later this week. Everything so far is awesome. They are very patient and nice to work with!
My wife's dream of a bathtub is finally happening. Can't wait to see the final result!
Rajesh Kumar
2 years ago
Great work done by Superior Renovation.Great service and efficient job.Big thanks to Jacob and they team.Highly recommend.Got my 2 bathrooms renovated.
Narene Orchard
2 years ago
We had the best experience using Superior Renovations. They had a good range of products available making it easy to pick the fixtures and fittings. The team were experienced and had great pride in their work, from the office to onsite we were treated like valued customers. The product we ended up with exceeded our expectations.
Jason Orchard
2 years ago
recommends
We have just recently completed a renovation project with Superior Renovations, complete demo and redo of x2 bathrooms, laundry, extension to existing deck, custom cabinets built & new wardrobe system installed. We have been completely OVERWHELMED and IMPRESSED by the professionalism of the whole team from start to finish. From the initial consultation, visiting the showroom, design team, admin correspondence, project manager and sub-contractors. We couldn’t be any happier with the final product. The whole process was extremely well streamlined, we were given timeframes well in advance and informed of any changes. The whole process was surprisingly stress free and we felt like a valued customer throughout. THANK YOU 🙏🏽
Dhruv Mehta
2 years ago
Great experience with Superior renovations. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking to renovate their house.
Sledge
2 years ago
We engaged Superior Renovations to transform our 30-year old, tired looking and problematic bathroom into something world class - and wow! The end result is simply stunning. The team led by Frank did an absolutely fantastic job. This was our first major renovation project and the entire process was easy and hassle free. The team delivered on schedule, within budget and the quality of their work is outstanding. If you are considering renovating - do not go past these guys.
Linda Meyer
2 years ago
Wish I had given more of my renovation project to Superior earlier in the process. Superior team was knowledgeable, skilled and exception to work with. Will certainly be a repeat customer if ever a need comes up.
Emma Mildon
2 years ago
From design to completion the team were professional and always keen to get the project right. We will definitely be using their services again. Even finished the job with a spotless clean.
Henry Popplewell
2 years ago
My wife and I are absolutely delighted with the team at Superior Renovations - and the "superior" job and experience they delivered for us in renovating our ensuite and main bathroom. We are so pleased we chose them for our renovation.
Everyone from Cici the designer, and Frank our wonderful and attentive project manager, down to the team of guys doing the heavy lifting were a real pleasure to deal with. We were kept informed every step of the way and everything was done to a very high standard. Nothing seems too much trouble for your crew (in fact Frank even became quite good at running after and catching our dog when the naughty little boy escaped), and they even helped me out with a couple of small extras around the house at no additional cost.
Their pricing was very fair - no hidden extras, and they are such hard workers! But I think what impressed me most was that everything they promised was done exactly on the day they said it would be done, and at the time they said it would be done. They were a very respectful, friendly team who obviously take immense pride in their work.
Thank you Superior team! Recommend 100%
Libby Sumnz
2 years ago
This place is excellent. The service is fantastic. Eunice was amazing. She is efficient, knowledgeable and professional. Their prices are excellent. We have chosen to go with them for an ensuite renovation.
We have now had the pleasure of Superior completing our ensuite. It's a big WOW from us.
Communication, professionalism, making sure they checked in with us about preferences, quality of workmanship, quality of materials are all 5 stars.
They completed the job early. Payment structure was excellent. The staff were polite and respectful. If there was an issue it got sorted immediately. Follow-up was prompt. There was no lingering to tidy up loose ends. Rubbish taken away immediately. Full respect of our neighbours using a shared driveway with us. Finally Jacob our project manager was the best. He held the job together from beginning to end.
To be honest...we were 'blown away' by how smoothly it all ran.
Mark Kroon
3 years ago
Friendly, efficient and professional.
Captain Fruitbat
3 years ago
Three bathrooms, a garage and a laundry renovated so far. Everything was done on time and to a high standard. Communications with the Project Manager were good, and the workers were all very professional, polite, and helpful.
Cody Zhao
3 years ago
Well communicated, responsive and porofessional.
ming wang
3 years ago
Superior Renovations renovated my living room, kitchen, bathroom and Garage, which turned out to be impressively good work. Especially the Kichen, which is really Morden style designed, functioning well and looks really elegant.
The Superior Renovations team is really professional, and willing to achieve a good finishing which fit for my expectations. The whole project took over a month, and the result is just satisfying.
The good work from Cici, Jacob and the team is much appreciated.
Eric Buisman
3 years ago
Choosing the right renovation company is as important as the project itself. We chose Superior Renovations, recommended to us, and they didn't disappoint. 2 full bathrooms and laundry renovations, from consultation, starting time, and workmanship, the project was a breeze. Best extra bits, project finished on time and within budget. Yes, we would recommend it. A+ Eric
Amar Anthony
3 years ago
We live in Glendene West Auckland. We decided to renovate our old bathroom with Superior renovations. This was our first renovation and the team at Superior renovations made it a smooth & satisfying journey for us. We were really pleased with our new bathroom renovation. Special thanks to Jin , Jacob and their team. This company is Professional, knowledgeable, friendly , punctual & honest. We would highly recommend them for any renovations. Well done 👏
Steve Hsieh
3 years ago
We currently decide to do our kitchen renovation and we meet Superior Renovations team. As we go through the full process with them, we believe their team is professional and reliable work. If you are looking for a professional project team who will do the whole work for home renovate and save your time. We are highly recommended for you to choose Superior Renovations services.
Hwan Goh
3 years ago
Pros: We engaged with Superior Renovations to renovate our apartment bathroom and overall we were extremely happy with the process and result! Our main point of contact was Cici Zuo who was very friendly and professional. Additionally, our whole apartment building was currently undergoing external renovations and so it was a logistical nightmare having to coordinate our interior work here with what was going on outside. Cici was impressively flexible to all situations and met each challenge with exemplary calmness and poise. I can only give high praise for her efficiency as a project manager. I would also like to extend my admiration to the accounting staff and the renovators. The accounting staff was very efficient and precise. The renovators were very friendly and I was appreciative with how conscientious they were about our apartment. It was clear how much care was taken to ensure our apartment remained undamaged and as clean as possible. At no time did I feel any concern leaving them to work in our apartment.
- Efficient, conscientious and high-quality construction - Clear and precise communication both in documentation as well as interaction with staff - Bathroom is gorgeous!
Cons: We also engaged with Superior Renovations to construct 2 wardrobes and 2 cupboards in our apartment. The design process was efficient with very clear documentation. However, we found the wardrobes to be quite overpriced compared to other companies we obtained quotes from. My biggest issue was with the somewhat bizarre inability to break down the price. To meet our budget, we requested pricing for each of the 4 structures separately so that we could decide which we would go ahead with and which we would opt out of. For some reason, Cici informed us that they were unable to break down the cost; cost for all 4 wardrobes has to be considered all together. I'm not entirely why this was the case; the explanation didn't make too much sense to me. In the end, we elected to not proceed with any of the wardrobes. On a related note, unlike other renovation companies we engaged with, Superior Renovations did not seem to offer much support in helping us meet our budget. We felt that not much attention was expended to provide us with multiple options to consider so that we can meet our financial requirements. The overall engagement had a "take it or leave it" feel about it and we found that we had to pry to expose alternatives.
- Pricing was not granular enough - Little consideration of budget or assistance towards meeting our budget. - No display of pricing including GST
Conclusion: If you want your work done fast and done well, Superior Renovations is definitely the way to go. However, if you're a bit constrained with your budget, be prepared to put in some effort yourself to meet it or entirely forgo some options. Overall we were very happy with the entire renovation process and will definitely consider Superior Renovations again in the future for any of our renovation needs! If this does happen, we hope that we have a chance to work with Cici again.
Update 15/5/2023: Two months after the completion of the work, unfortunately a leak was discovered coming from the pipe of our renovated ensuite that damaged the walls and ceiling of the apartment directly below us. After investigation, this turned out to NOT be the fault of Superior Renovations' work. Despite this, to facilitate the investigation, Cici was extremely responsive and proactive. Her action was instrumental in determining the cause of the leak. Additionally, post-work, Cici has been very helpful in dealing with some very minor issues. With all this in mind, I felt it was necessary to update my review to once again give my compliments to Cic and the Superior Renovations team. I should also mention that an external plumber who also came to investigate the leak was blown away at the workmanship of the renovation!
Raza Mohsin
3 years ago
How fortunate were we to come across Superior Renovations when we were looking for our home renovations. Out biggest challenge was time management as we wanted to be back in our home as early as possible and due to recent weather events all builders were unable to commit to a timeline. From sales rep Cici to Project Manager Jacob, it was one smooth one window operation. Sticking to original plan, selection of materials at showroom to weekly plan communication and daily updates, it was as best managed as one could hope for. I am extremely pleased with the results and would be recommending it to my mates for any big or small renovation or build job. Well done team !!
Melissa McIntyre
3 years ago
We had a wonderful experience using Superior Renovations to remodel two bathrooms in our investment property!
From the moment I met with Kevin, he was incredibly friendly and attentive to our ideas and needs. He really went above and beyond to personalise the project for us.
Throughout the process, Kevin and his project management team were very professional and always took the time to discuss our options and provide helpful guidance. Alison the designer was amazing and really put our minds at ease and visualised what we wanted to create. And the project management team was fantastic too - they were on site every day to oversee everything personally.
The end result is truly outstanding and exceeded our expectations. We are so grateful that we trusted Superior Renovations with our home and can't wait to hire them again for our next remodel project - the kitchen!
We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great renovation experience.
Mark Norris
3 years ago
It was an absolute pleasure working with Superior Renovations on our kitchen/dining renovation. The project was impeccably managed from start to finish. The whole team were always professional, reliable and on time even with a cyclone and flooding in the middle of the project. Sunny the Project manager was onsite everyday to check progress and keep us updated at every step. Cici who did the original design understood exactly what we wanted and the finished product reflected this. Very very happy with the end result. Would highly recommend Superior Renovations to anyone wanting any work done on their property. First class, we will consulting them about our upcoming bathroom renovation. Many thanks again. Mark and Vinita
Kerry Nam
3 years ago
I would recommend Superior Renovations to anyone considering a house renovation. We had our 3.5 bathrooms renovated and re-tiled the balcony and very happy with the outcome.
Nick and Dorothy are absolutely delightful to work with. Dorothy spent extra effort to get the design right. Nick always kept us up to date with the progress and provided guidance on decisions we had to make throughout the project. They delivered everything on time and their quality of workmanship is superior.
Thank you team!
Gary Brophy
3 years ago
Right from the beginning the communication with the team was awesome. Nothing was too hard, and they happily completed any extras we requested. The tradesmen always left the house tidy after a day's work. We are thrilled with our new bathrooms, updated kitchen and interior painting. Thanks so much to Jin, Nick, Sunny and the team for making our home feel they a whole new place! We love it. We would definitely use Superior Renovations again. Regards Leanne and Gary
Yuanqi Zhang
4 years ago
Having compared the price and the leading time, we chose Superior to renovate the kitchen, the floor and some walls. It turned out to be a wise choice. They are efficient, easy to communicate with, there have been two little problems however they’ve been dealt with real fast. So we highly recommend Superior, and already have to some friends,if you are going to renovate your house ! 😁
Vĩnh Hằng
4 years ago
Most wonderful experience we had with Superior Renovation. The process was smooth and straightforward. They were very honest and helpful when advising us with the right products for our small bathroom. The project manager was always responsive and prompt throughout the whole process. All the tradies were friendly and respectful. We were kept well informed with everything. The accountant was very understanding when we had problems with transferring the fund. We have absolutely no complaints at all and came back a second time for the family bathroom and toilet. Will definitely come back again for later projects.
Chris Joe
4 years ago
An awesome team to work with, the planning Dorothy and Nick provided were very helpful and amazing with communications. The contractors were also very respectful and friendly. We're very happy with the services provided, the ensuite is finished at a better quality than we thought and we are actually in touch for a second project to be done in the best future.
Grace Carroll
4 years ago
Highly recommend using Superior Renovations. We decided to upgrade our kitchen and repaint and redo the flooring in the lounge and hallway.
Dorothy made it super easy to get the job designed, quoted and booked in.
Nick our PM was amazing. Nothing was ever an issue and he kept us up to date every step of the way. Like any renovation sometimes there are issues that require additional work - we were updated straight away and well informed of any additional costs before any further work proceeded.
The various tradies we had did an amazing job and the workmanship and attention to detail was excellent.
Lu Ping Lee
4 years ago
The team at Superior Renovation made getting our bathroom and laundry renovated so easy. The whole renovation was looked after by them from start to finish, was completed in a timely manner and they were happy to add in any additional work that we asked to be done. Each member of the team would clean up after completing their work - whether it was the demolition team, plasterer, plumber or tiler. Which was great as we didn’t have a big mess to clean up once they were done. Thank you to Xingyi, Cici and the rest of the superior renovation team.
Hannah Lorien-King
4 years ago
We choose to use Superior Renovations for our bathroom renovations - the job involved taking the walls and ceiling back to the stud, moving a door and removing in-built cupboards. As this is the main family bathroom the thought of a long process where we were responsible for finding a plumber, builder, electrician and tiler was really daunting. We had one meeting with Cici at Superior Renovations and were impressed by her efficiency and suggestions and how she helped realise any ideas we had. The team completed the job within the expected timeframe, we had a main point of contact (Nick - amazing!) who managed all the teams and kept us up-to-date. The Superior Renovations team all worked really hard and we have an end result of a bathroom that has exceed our expectations. Cannot recommend the team enough - they made the stress of living without a main bathroom both quick and painless!
Nitin Asar
4 years ago
After speaking with a couple of people and actually encountering various hurdles- I finally decided to go ahead with Superior Renovations. Initially was a bit apprehensive and concerned as there is limited supply of Gib board in the market. Was so glad that I decided to go with them. Nick the project manager is simply great- he would often revert back to myself with questions regarding the placement of the fittings etc-rather than make assumptions.This was really appreciated. They even gave the place a professional clean when the project was complete!
Paula
4 years ago
I had a full bathroom remodel completed and the result exceeded my expectations. Nick's team delivered a professional and top quality service, I was always kept well informed and appreciated the regular onsite visits with Nick to ensure I was kept up to date. I would definitely use Superior Renovations again and am happy to recomend them to family and friends as well.
Kirsty Newton
4 years ago
recommends
The team at Superior Renovations have just completed our ensuite renovation. We now have a beautiful modern bathroom the has surpassed all expectations. Dorothy and Nick have been wonderful guides through the process and are a well oiled machine. We had challenges with our Reno as our ensure is in a little extension off our bedroom. The team were quick to problem solve around lack of cavity space in the roof and a block wall where we assumed would be a normal cavity wall. nothing was ever a problem and we genuinely feel like they went above and beyond for us. Thank you Nick and team we will be back for our future Renovation needs.
Amelia Wong
4 years ago
Entire bathroom makeover done by Superior Renovation. All works are completed in professional manner. Very pleased with the result. Well done Superior team!
dileep n.s
4 years ago
I am very happy with the service provided by superior renovations. They are very organized and the most important thing is the fixed price. There are no hidden charges. Also they managed to start the work soon after signing the contract and completed the full house renovation within two months as mentioned in the contract. Very happy with that especially when there is high demand for building materials. Thanks a lot to Cici and Nick for coordinating the project and all the workers involved. I love the way you transformed the 1972 house into 2022 house. I am fully satisfied with the work you have done and very happy that I was involved in each stages of the project. I had made so many changes in the plan during the work and you agreed to do that without any hesitation. Friendly and professional team did their part well. We are really enjoying our new house. Highly recommended. Thanks Superior Renovations.
Janeen Farquharson
4 years ago
I had my Kitchen, laundry & bathroom remodel and am so pleased with the results!! Dorothy was so lovely to deal with and was fast and efficient. Xingyi (project manager) was great, answered any questions and always followed up.
Highly recommend
Scott Williams
4 years ago
We decided to use Superior Renovations for our bathroom renovation based solely on their google reviews and now it is our turn to add another 5 star review. From the initial consultation with Dorothy to the project management of Nick and the amazing work of the tradies team the whole process exceeded our expectations. If you are looking for a professional company to work with then don't look anywhere else! Thanks Guys. Scott and Janet Torbay
Deborah Samson
4 years ago
recommends
Superior Renovations project managed by Nick has just finished our new bathroom, separate toilet, and ensuite. Cici made choosing fittings so easy. The team kept me informed of every stage and the project was completed to our satisfaction despite COVID issues. Our bathrooms are now hotel quality and it is a treat to use them everyday!
Cheyenne Welham
4 years ago
Superior Renovations recently remodelled my bathroom in Mount Eden and I couldn't be more impressed with their service! I had such an excellent experience right from the start with the quotation process, right through to designing the bathroom and then finally construction. The final result was exactly what I had wanted, and I couldn't speak more highly of the team. Thank you Superior for doing such a great job! I will be using the company again for more renovation work in the future for sure.
Anil
4 years ago
I must compliment the Team for an excellent Service and work in completely changing our kitchen (we admire it every day) as it is of the highest quality and made exactly to our requirements.Their team and focus on minutest details is unbelievable.
Over and above - Most importantly Customer Service provided by Cici, Nick, Kyle and their team was awesome. We have not observed such high quality and standards for a very long time. A special mention to their Tiler who did the perfect job with the greatest of details and care.He is a great asset to work for anyone. This team is so pro-active, motivated and sensitive to meet customer aspirations that I would hire them every time needed.
Wonderful quality, workmanship and Awesome Customer Service. I could rate them 10 stars if I could 😊🌹👍
W卡罗
4 years ago
Superior Renovations is a trustworthy renovation company and doing awesome jobs! Although the work is delayed and not easy to go through during covid , the team still tried their best to meet the needs of ours and completed as fast as they can . I think Superior Renovations shows its professional performance and well customer care service to their customers. Especially a big thank you for Kevin, Sunny, Dorothy and Jimmy for all the help, time and effort you have spent on our project. We really appreciated it and will highly recommend to others.
Roger Rowe
4 years ago
The team at Superior were awesome! We engaged with Superior Renovations to do a full bathroom renovation which included a full bathroom, en-suite and 2 separate toilets. They were professional, thorough, easy to work with, very responsive and we loved the experience. The tradies that were used were very good and the work was of an excellent standard. There were a couple of tradies that did not have good english, but that was never an issue as our Project Manager Nick Chen and our Site Manager, Kai Zhang were excellent communicators, very responsive to any questions or concerns and always laid out the plan for each day. We are absolutely rapt with our bathrooms. We also had our entranceway retiled as part of the job and it looks amazing too. The tiling team that Superior used were brilliant! I absolutely recommend Superior for anyone wanting to do a bathroom renovation project... you won't be disappointed.
Photo Bug
4 years ago
We did our kitchen renovation and it was a great experience. Good communication and quick response. Showroom was a good example of what you can achieve. Highly recommend.
Rennie Atfield-Douglas
4 years ago
Highly recommend Superior Renovations. They have been so easy to deal with and nothing was ever a problem. Sunny was our project manager and his team did such a good job on both renovation projects. We also had Dorothy do the design plans and the initial consultation. Sunny and Dorothy were so helpful and made this process easy for us.
Deepanjali Raj
4 years ago
recommends
We are so please with our new kitchen, dining and living room. Superior Renovations has done a superb jobs with our Renovations. Kevin the managing director took a personal interest in our project and we are so grateful to him and his advice. Loving our Renovations.
Steve Sutherland
4 years ago
Superior Renovations were amazing. We used them after seeing the amazing job they did with a friend's bathroom. They had a large team of skilled workers who worked long hours to completely renovate our kids bathroom in a little over 4 weeks. Cici was hugely helpful at design stage, by offering really practical and modern design ideas. The project management team were constantly checking on progress and quality and the completed bathroom was delivered on time AND on budget. Nothing was too much trouble and we even received a gift basket and thank you card at handover. We have 2 more bathrooms and a kitchen still to do when funds allow but we wont hesitate to have Superior do these for us.
Leigh Jelicich
4 years ago
We just had our kitchen, ensuite, main bathroom and toilet renovated by Superior Renovations and I couldn't reccommend them enough. Jin and Nick were awesome to deal with as were all the tradies coming and going. They project managed the whole thing so I didn't have any of the stress. Thanks team, you are all amazing :)
Ashleigh Habgood
4 years ago
Superior renovations was AMAZING to deal with. We have completed 3 renovation projects with them in the last 6 months and it's been a dream! Despite challenges with their suppliers, they solved problems to deliver EARLIER than expected in some projects and on time in others. All of their workers are happy, professional, dedicated to excellence and hard working. Kevin has been such a joy to deal with. I never wait more than 5 minutes for him to get back to me. He is always in a great mood, even when he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. We will be using this company for years to come. My only concern is that Kevin works too hard and I hope he looks after himself, but judging by his endless energy, he must be sleeping very well or taking some crazy supplements! HUGE FAN OVER HERE!!!
Elyse Purdie
4 years ago
Bathroom renovation was a very smooth process, great quality and communication 😀
Ross Prestidge
4 years ago
We had an ensuite bathroom which had chronic water leakage issues. We hired Superior Renovations to demolish the existing bathroom and replace with a new one. We are very happy with the work they did. They explained what needed to be done clearly, and they communicated with us very well about when each team would arrive to do the various tasks. The job took slightly less time than we expected. The workmanship was first class, and the final bathroom is just what we wanted.
Priya
4 years ago
Superior Renovations did a great timely job in renovating our ensuite bathroom. Cici, Nick and Kevin were very professional. Whenever any issue was identified they immediately responded and endeavoured to resolve. It was a pleasure dealing with the whole team. A special mention to the Tiler who did a splendid job. The renovation was completed in a seamless manner and happy with the new bathroom.
Steve McGinness
4 years ago
Very professional company and staff. I Would not hesitate to recommend this company for any Renovation project. Great communication and high standards.
Paul Beattie
4 years ago
Superior Renovations are a great company to work with. They did a great job on our kitchen reno late last year & have also completed interior decorating throughout the rest of the house. Dorothy, Alex & all the team are great to work with & we will certainly be getting them back to complete our upstairs bathroom & on-suite. Thanks Superior Renovations................
Susan Atherton
4 years ago
Superior Renovations managed my kitchen renovation. They were professional, prompt, on time and worked to a high standard. The finished result exceeded my expectations. Cici managed the project, and was so helpful throughout. Very smooth process and happy to recommend. So much so that I have now asked them to carry out further work for me.
Tatiana Derevianko
4 years ago
Completing my home renovation with Superior Renovations was the most positive and rewarding experience I could wish for with home renovation.
Straight from the design, all the way through the project management and all the works on site both inside the house and the outdoor area were completed with high quality, care and always on schedule.
Communication and two way feedback was delivered very well throughout the project. I felt listened to and well informed of the next stage in the process.
Superior Renovations delivered as promised on the design, timeframe and the agreed budget.
The final result exceeded my expectations. My newly renovated house is looking more spacious, more functional and beautiful all the way throughout indoor and outdoor.
I would without a doubt recommend Superior Renovations for your home renovation experience.
Tatiana Epsom, Auckland
Graham Tatiana
4 years ago
recommends
Completing my home renovation with Superior Renovations was the most positive and rewarding experience I could wish for with home renovation.
Straight from the design, all the way through the project management and all the works on site both inside the house and the outdoor area were completed with high quality, care and always on schedule.
Communication and two way feedback was delivered very well throughout the project. I felt listened to and well informed of every stage in the process.
Superior Renovations delivered as promised on the design, timeframe and the agreed budget.
The final result exceeded my expectations. My newly renovated house is looking more spacious, more functional and beautiful all the way throughout indoor and outdoor.
I would without a doubt recommend Superior Renovations for your home renovation experience.
Tatiana Epsom, Auckland
Liz Tay
5 years ago
Fantastic experience with these guys - right from the first consultation where Cici drew us up a design to visualize, right through to completion, Superior Renovations were professional and prompt, with amazing communication all throughout our project. Doing a bathroom renovation is always daunting, but these guys made it so easy and gave us step by step breakdowns of what to expect and what was coming next. The work ethic of their contractors was amazing (working weekends and even into the evening to get the job done!), and if I had any questions (of which I had a LOT!), they answered them quickly and thoroughly. We LOVE the finished product... our bathroom is unrecognizable now! Thank you Nick, Kevin, Cici, Kai and the team :) Looking forward to having you back to do our kitchen next!!
Chako Takagi
5 years ago
Excellent team. Good job.
Jacques Ellis
5 years ago
5 stars! Great team to work with. Project was managed superbly, and the workmanship was great quality. Highly recommended.
Karishma Patel
5 years ago
Superior Renovation had done my entire home, bathroom and kitchen Renovation. They helped my family in various ways like being on time to start the day and took time for us. Kevin and his team worked really hard from start to end and he promised us that we would get our house done before Christmas and he fulfilled his promise. 😊
Michael Littlewood
5 years ago
Superior Renovations were great. We got them to do a complete makeover of a house we own in Auckland: new kitchen, new bathroom, rearranging internal layout, new flooring throughout, etc. Coordinating tradies can be a real nightmare but Jimmy got it done very, very smoothly. We'd definitely use them again.
Sue Stodart
5 years ago
Superior Renovations has just completed renovations for us of two bathrooms, separate toilet, and HWC installation. We are thrilled with our new bathrooms. Superior Renovations were a pleasure to deal with at all times, during the planning stage and throughout the renovations. We were kept fully informed. They did great work. There were no surprises. Very highly recommended. Many thanks to Kevin and team.
Peter Tagle
5 years ago
The team really did a good job on our bath, toilet, and laundry renovation. We got the value for our money. They delivered what we expected and even more even if there were challenges in getting materials during lockdown.
Rohan Pitalia
5 years ago
One of the best builder in Auckland
Kevin
5 years ago
Excellent service, quality work, exactly to timetable.
tracey
6 years ago
I am really impressed with, and grateful for, the professional, high quality and responsive service we received from Superior Renovations. Every person I had contact with, the CEO through to the tradies and all in between, were easy and professional to deal with. I was comfortable being away from home while they worked. The final result - my new bathroom - is gorgeous! Well executed and with a great clean up as well. I would have no hesitation recommending Superior Renovations.
Mariia Lepa
6 years ago
Very responsible team. They are experts in their field. Superior renovations was very good in listening for my requirements and they always answer all my questions.
I would definitely recommend Superior Renovations!
Martin Ma
6 years ago
The best client to work with, highly recommended
Martin from EnviroWaste
Jake Newman
6 years ago
We are really pleased with our new bathrooms. We were quite particular with what we wanted and Jin and the team at Superior Renovations worked with us to help us achieve our vision. The workmanship is outstanding and alongside the quality fittings has resulted in a stunning finished product.
Divya Anna De La Puente
6 years ago
Great people to work with. I highly recommend Superior Renovations!
Ross Jolly
6 years ago
recommends
I recently had my kitchen renovated by Superior Kitchens. They took care of everything from start to finish and organised all the tradies. I only had to deal with one person and that was Jimmy the project manager, who kept me well informed as to what was happening. He was very friendly and approachable and took care of any queries or concerns promptly. They were very professional and thorough all the way The job was completed on time without any glitches, and they have done a fantastic job. Highly recommended
Alvin Chisnall
6 years ago
recommends
The team at Superior Renovations are passionate people that go above and beyond to make sure that the needs and expectations of their clients are not only met but exceeded. We enjoy working with them & always appreciate their dedication to quality, service & overall levels of commitment. Highly recommend!
Thomas Park
6 years ago
Excellent people who take the job seriously and provide excellent value for money service. The outcome is excellent.
Amy Elliott
6 years ago
great communication and service
Louie Ccg
6 years ago
We have been working with superior renovation a while now. They are expert in their field, prompt and produce a quality building works.
We have been recommending them for our projects relating residential renovation.
It was a pleasure to work with them so far.
Martin
6 years ago
Professional and easy to deal with. I recommend them.
Toni Stevens
6 years ago
recommends
my husband and I had our kitchen, dining and bathroom renovated just before Christmas and expected given date to finish was just in time, yes it was chaos but we love our new rooms.. jin was our project manager, he had great advice and opinions on each space which was awesome. we got personal touches on certain things and lots of options given when choosing tiles, flooring, paints, bathroom and kitchen ware etc which made it even easier.. communication was great and the contractors coming in and out were respectful. if there was any problems we were informed and vice versa. we are so happy we went through with renovating and highly recommend superior renovation, you won't regret it.. thank you Jin and team and merry Christmas 😁
wu bob
6 years ago
Very happy with the service provided
Rachael Blair
6 years ago
We really enjoyed working with Kevin and his team right throughout the process of re-designing and installing our new en-suite, and also painting our master bedroom at the same time. Superior Renovations were able to work to a tight schedule and complete the job to our satisfaction within 3 weeks. Really happy with the job all round - thanks team!
Lynette R
6 years ago
After looking around, we chose Superior Home Renovation to do our kitchen renovations, primarily because they have all the tradies under one umbrella. Hubby and I are both working, we don’t have much time to sort plans from trades people and fit into our schedule, plus we are uncertain which trades people to get to create a quality result. The process we experienced was less stressful, we are communicating with just one person - our Project Manager Jin, who organised everything! From demolition, floor tiling, cabinets & drawers, benchtop, electricians, painters to cleaners. Jin is a very good communicator, he keeps us on the loop about the project, and never missed to answer calls. Every enquiry that we asked during the renovation stages were all answered satisfactorily. He definitely has a ‘Customer Satisfaction’ attribute. Our kitchen was finished within the period given, and have excellently met our expectations. Our family is very happy with the design, quality and functionality of our new kitchen. Jin and his team have gained our trust, and we will contact them again on our next home renovation project. Highly recommended! :)
Bei Xiao
7 years ago
What an amazing work the team delivered! I did my bathroom renovation and is exactly what I want, whatever what issue happened always can find my project manager to solve it, feel very confident during whole project. thanks my project manager Bonnie again.
Dean John Ikinepe
7 years ago
recommends
Our bathroom looks awesome. We are so glad to have made the decision to go with Superior Renovations and would highly recommend them. Our first experience in getting our home renovated and it wasn’t as stressful as we had thought it would be. We were lucky to have a project manager that made this experience less stressful and leave us with peace of mind. To Mr Jimmy Zhou and your team Thank you.
dean ikinepe
7 years ago
Our bathroom looks awesome. We are so glad to have made the decision to go with Superior Renovations and would highly recommend them. Our first experience in getting our home renovated and it wasn’t as stressful as we had thought it would be. We were lucky to have a project manager that made this experience less stressful and leave us with peace of mind. To Mr Jimmy Zhou and your team Thank you.
Steven Holden
7 years ago
After obtaining quotes from several contractors in September - we chose Superior Renovations to fully refurbish our 2 x bathrooms, 2 x separate toilets and paint and carpet our garage. Not only were they able to start immediately, their standard of work and impressive work ethic was second to none. On time (actually 1-2 weeks ahead of schedule) and on budget, their professionalism, approachability and constant (and very effective) communication made Kevin and his team an absolute pleasure to work with. We are extremely happy with the result (and the building experience) and would 100% recommend Superior Renovations to all - we will be using them for our next project. ......and we did! Almost exactly one year later to completely remodel our kitchen and half of our downstairs flooring. If anything Kevin and his team have got even better. Less than 5 weeks from signing contracts to full completion. Less than 3 weeks of actual demolition and construction. Amazing work ethic and an excellent quality result. Thank you!
Cat Aitken
7 years ago
We were extremely happy with our recent kitchen and laundry renovation. The team from Superior were knowledgeable, efficient and lovely to deal with right from our first contact through to the completion of the project. We couldn't be happier with the result - it looks fantastic, is extremely practical and has transformed the whole feel of our home - all for a very competitive cost. I would definitely recommend this team and would use them again in the future.
Chao Cheng
7 years ago
I am very satisfied renovation project completed by Superior Renovations. Kevin and his team is very approachable and did extra jobs for me without additional charges, The project was complete on time even with extra building work . I will definitely recommend his team to my friends.
karen hou
7 years ago
Bonnie -the project manager is awesome!!
Janet McIver
7 years ago
recommends
The job was professional from start to finish. Jin was extremely helpful and I am very satisfied with the result
Joanne Hilson
7 years ago
recommends
Having never done a renovation before Superior Renovations was outstanding. The professional advice and support of the team made our experience extremely easy and what started out as just an extra toilet turned into a fabulous new bathroom, modern living area , new laundry and then we added a rumpus room for the kids. This was never the intention but our experience was so good we felt comfortable and confident leaving it in the hands of Superior Renovations. They took us on the entire journey , educating and assisting with decisions and having a single point for all the different tradies was a dream and no stress. The final product was better than we expected and right on budget and they cleaned the entire place after all the work was done as a bonus . I highly recommend Superior Renovations.
Mary Stuart
7 years ago
recommends
I can't say enough good things about this company. About six months ago, we purchased an older home in Orewa that needed EVERYTHING replaced,. After interviewing 6 local companies specialising in renovations, we hired Superior Renovations to re-do our kitchen, laundry and bathroom. And we're so glad we did. From the start, their people gave me the impression that my satisfaction was their number one priority - that any request of mine was reasonable and do-able. During the process, they listened to my ideas, made excellent suggestions where I was lacking in knowledge, and delivered comprehensive plans that incorporated my style and requirements. Michael, our Project Manager, was always patient, kind and professional. Ultimately, the renovations of our rooms were completed on time and within our budget. We are very happy with the results obtained and everyone that sees our kitchen, laundry and bath just stops, stares, and says "Wow!". In short, this company has outstanding customer service and I would recommend them to anyone looking for renovations to be done. Mary Stuart
Mary Stuart
7 years ago
I can't say enough good things about this company. About six months ago, we purchased an older home in Orewa that needed EVERYTHING replaced,. After interviewing 6 local companies specialising in renovations, we hired Superior Renovations to re-do our kitchen, laundry and bathroom. And we're so glad we did. From the start, their people gave me the impression that my satisfaction was their number one priority - that any request of mine was reasonable and do-able. During the process, they listened to my ideas, made excellent suggestions where I was lacking in knowledge, and delivered comprehensive plans that incorporated my style and requirements. Michael, our Project Manager, was always patient, kind and professional. Ultimately, the renovations of our rooms were completed on time and within our budget. We are very happy with the results obtained and everyone that sees our kitchen, laundry and bath just stops, stares, and says "Wow!". In short, this company has outstanding customer service and I would recommend them to anyone looking for renovations to be done.
Ilati Hafoka
7 years ago
We had our bathroom/ toilet completely renovated by Jin and his team and love the final results. They were easy to work with as well as very professional. Would 100% recommend Superior Renovations to anyone looking to upgrade.
Moira Manning
7 years ago
recommends
My bathroom renovation was magic from beginning to end. I had previously had a bad experience renovating another bathroom so it was absolutely wonderful to turn that experience around. Moira
Miriama Taringa
7 years ago
Thank you Superior Renovations manager and staff for a great job completed on our bathroom. All I did was bought the materials and Superior Renovations completed and installed. I was so amazed within the timeframe as agreed. My son and his little family are very happy with the new bathroom. I would recommend Superior Renovations to anyone.
Olivia Duncan
7 years ago
recommends
My project manager was brilliant and the whole process was really easy and fast. I'm thrilled with the finished result.
Olivia Duncan
7 years ago
I was really happy with the process, communication, price and quality of work.
Will Horne
7 years ago
We had two of our bathrooms renovated with Superior Renovations and we are very satisfied with the great job they completed. Twelve months on and every thing is still "A Okay". Well done, would recommend.
Madeleine Newman
7 years ago
Wonderful service and great team to work with. Nothing was ever a trouble and the end result is fabulous. I will use them again for my next project.
Kenneth Parry
7 years ago
We have had 3 bathrooms ,at different times ,renovated by Kevin and his team.Everything has worked out great , and we have a long history in property management of residential property. I have no problem in recommending Superior Renovations to anyone.
My Goodness Customer Service
7 years ago
Steven and the team are great to deal with and we have enjoyed working with them over the last 2 years.
Ryan Tongapuna
7 years ago
recommends
The team were amazing, great support, communication was on point, they never left us in the dark once and made sure we were as informed as possible. they were simply amazing, i would highly recommend! A++
Ryan Tongapuna
7 years ago
The team were amazing, great support, communication was on point, they never left us in the dark once and made sure we were as informed as possible. they were simply amazing, i would highly recommend! A++
Vivian Liu
7 years ago
recommends
I had my kitchen and master bathroom totally renovated and also painting/electrical work done for my house which was purchased a few months ago.
I am so happy to have Jimmy, my project manager, who is very professional, courteous and put customer needs on his top priority at all times. His team did a great job. Jimmy was extremely patient and answered all my questions with details.
I give him a 10/10 and will definitely recommend Superior Renovations to my friends if they require renovations work for their homes.
Tony Ah Colt
7 years ago
recommends
I am stoked with my new kitchen! Superior Renovations was great in listening to my requirements and going the extra mile to help me source and identify solutions to meet my needs and design desires. We bounced ideas back and forth until the ideal design and solutions was found. They organized the plumbing, painting, electrical and builders work that needed to be completed as well as the kitchen cabinetry and included the costs in their quotes which left me stress free! They even helped me find a kitchen sink, fridge, stove, range hood and taps I liked. I was kept informed through out the project of the time frames and activities to be completed. These guys worked long and hard and met all of their deadlines. Where challenges were met, they came to the table and helped find suitable solutions. Their keen eye for detail and previous experience were most appreciated in identifying what would and won't work. Samples were brought to me throughout the design process allowing me to select my desired choices, colours, designs, patterns. Great team to work with. Will not hesitate to contact them again when completing further renovations in a year or so.
Penelope K
7 years ago
Kevin and the team did an outstanding job in renovating our 40 year old Villa home. We have worked with many contractors over the last 20 years and Superior Renovations by far is the best. The quality of the workmanship was outstanding and they were always very attentive to my queries. There were people working every day and the project was completed on time as promised. We used Superior Renovations 2 years ago for a smaller bathroom renovation project and they were excellent then as well. Since then we have used other companies for various projects and I can honestly say Superior Renovations quality is second to none - and we still prefer to deal with Superior Renovations and mainly because I trust that they will go the extra mile and will deliver the result above what is expected. In addition, the owner, Kevin and all the sub contractors were very knowledgeable, respectful and friendly to both myself and my family (including my dogs!). I highly recommend Kevin and the team and will use them again for future home renovation projects!
nn d
7 years ago
Superior Renovations was recommended to me by my friends, and I'm glad I went with them. I've delayed getting my bathroom renovated because I was worried about all the hassle and headache I may need to deal with, but Kevin made it seem like a breeze - everything felt looked after every step of the way and there was a lot transparency regarding cost and timing. Will be recommending them to friends and family, thanks Kevin and the team!
Craig Eagleton
7 years ago
recommends
We were extremely impressed with Superior Renovations. We used them to gut and fully replace our en-suite; plus the installation of a new bath in our teenager’s bathroom. The team’s work ethic was amazing; working long hours to meet the build timeframe and Jimmy was always communicating extremely well. Very happy with the result and we’re looking forward to them tackling our laundry.
Lizzie Clifford
7 years ago
The experience at Superior renovations overall was fabulous! Kevin was there every step of the way, he had all the right information and knew what he had to do from the start to the finish. A hard worker and very concise. I highly recommend this business to anyone and everyone looking to get a renovation done!
Colin White
7 years ago
Just had a full bathroom renovation and found the whole process stress free and excelent, the staff and project manager were proffesional and excelent to deal with, would reccomend them to anybody who wants a quality renovation.
Sarah Dryden
8 years ago
recommends
Kevin and his team did an amazing job - we are so happy with the results! Nothing was a problem, and the team were approachable and professional. The team are amongst the best craftsmen I've encountered in Auckland, and it shows in the finish of the job. All of the guys showed up on time without fail, worked really hard and communicated every stage of the job. Superior renovations did 5 rooms for us (bathroom, ensuite, 2 toilets and garage) to a very high standard and with no delays. Thank you Kevin, Kai and your team! Hope to work with you again soon
Jimmy Alex and Kevin you are a remarkable team and have done a beautiful job on painting our house. We are very thrilled with your professionalism and workmanship throughout the process. Has been a pleasure working with you all. Top marks for going the extra mile in helping us with extra little jobs. definitely recommend you to family and friends and look forward to working with you again in the near future 😀😀👍
Bathand Tile
8 years ago
recommends
Superior Renovation has great professional team. We normally interact with Jimmy, Kevin , Stu and Jin. They all are very helpful with clients advising them what products suits well to the project. This makes their customer's experience easy and fast moving. Good luck great team 👍👍
Andrew W
8 years ago
Fantastic workmanship. People you can trust to keep everything under budget without compromising quality.
박진석
8 years ago
recommends
Best Renovation Company in New Zealand
sharon phillips
8 years ago
Kevin and his crew did a great job - they did a complete home renovation for us, i.e. new kitchen, bathroom/s, tiling, carpet, plaster and paint, blinds, lighting, everything. We have a new house and we love it. Any questions or concerns I had were quickly by Kevin and any problems fixed. Nothing was a problem. Would recommend to anyone.
Zou Yawen
8 years ago
It was lucky for us to find Kevin and his team to do the renovation work. The job done on time and really look nice.
alma uka
8 years ago
Superior Renovation team made it so easy. Everything they promised they actually completed and even better then I could have imagined. I am impressed with the high standards of their work and professionalism. The work started on time, kept on the budget and even finished before the due date. Jimmy kept me informed of every single step of the renovation process, he made it so easy for me. The final result is fantastic, I have a new bathroom, kitchen, lounge and two bedrooms. Superior Renovation, you are the best. Thank you Jimmy and Kevin
Da-young Kim
8 years ago
I was looking for a renovation job and this company was the one for my needs. Their services were customised to suit my all requirements. We had communicated a lot and they fully focused on every detail. Completely recommend Superior Renovations!
EJY GROUP
8 years ago
We will highly recommend to all to use this company for all the renovation jobs. The team really experience , honest and friendly all the time. The project manager is really knowledge for the help to give lots of ideals from the projects and we really happy with all the results from you guys. Thanks for all the hard job.
daniel chou
8 years ago
What a load off my shoulders. After buying my new home which badly needed some renovations was something that was very stressful for me as a single mum finances were an obvious issue and being taken advantage of for just being a woman were a major concern but then I found Kevin and the Superior Renovations Team. Kevin, thank you so much for taking the stress and worry off my shoulders, you stuck to my budget and you did an amazing job.
Menglan Wu
9 years ago
Kevin and his team is always good in every aspect from planning to renovating, thank you for their great contribution!
Ling Su
9 years ago
great communication skills, and can resolve any problem we face.
Brenda Griffiths
9 years ago
Was an absolute pleasure dealing with Kevin and the team, have already recommended you guys to my friends and family - will be in touch for my next renovation! thanks again for the quick turn around and excellent result.
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