Thinking about giving your kitchen a much-needed refresh but not sure how long you'll be without a stove or sink? You're not alone. One of the most common questions homeowners ask before diving into a kitchen renovation is: How long will it take?

The answer isn't one-size-fits-all, but with a little planning and some realistic expectations, you can avoid surprises and keep your renovation stress-free.

It All Starts With Planning

Before a single tile is removed or a cabinet is replaced, the planning phase begins — and it's more important than many realise.

This stage includes things like:

  • Deciding on your kitchen layout
  • Choosing materials and finishes
  • Locking in your tradies or contractors
  • Getting the necessary permits (if required)

For most people, planning can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how decisive you are and whether you're doing it yourself or working with a professional.

Demolition and Prep Work

Once the plan is locked in, it's time to strip out the old kitchen. Demolition usually takes around 2 to 5 days, depending on the size of your space and what's being removed.

After that, there may be some extra work needed, like adjusting plumbing or electricals to suit your new design. This prep stage might add another 1 to 2 weeks, especially if structural changes are involved.

Installation Phase

This is where your kitchen renovation really starts to come together. Cabinet installation, benchtops, splashbacks, appliances — the works.

Here's a rough breakdown of what to expect:

  • Cabinets and carpentry: 3 to 5 days
  • Benchtop installation: Can be immediate or take up to 2 weeks if it's custom
  • Plumbing and electrical fit-off: 2 to 3 days
  • Splashbacks and tiling: 2 to 4 days

Altogether, the installation phase can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on product availability and the complexity of your design.

Final Touches and Clean Up

The finishing touches — like paint, lighting fixtures, and a good clean — don't take long but they're crucial to making everything look polished. This stage usually adds an extra few days to a week to the timeline.

It's also the point where your builder or project manager will do a final walkthrough to make sure everything meets the agreed plan.

So, What's the Total Timeframe?

For a standard kitchen renovation, you're generally looking at around 4 to 8 weeks from start to finish — not including the planning phase. Of course, if you're tackling a major overhaul or run into delays (like material shortages or wet weather), it could stretch longer.

Final Thoughts

Every kitchen renovation is different, but being realistic about the timeline can help reduce stress and set clear expectations. A well-planned and professionally managed renovation is worth the wait — especially when you're cooking up your first meal in a space that feels brand new.

Thinking of renovating your kitchen soon? Take your time planning, choose the right people, and enjoy the journey — your dream kitchen is just a few weeks away.