A kitchen renovation is an exciting project, but it’s also one of the most time-sensitive undertakings you can tackle in a home. After all, the kitchen isn’t just another room, it’s the heart of the household. That means carefully planning the kitchen renovation timeline is essential to avoid weeks (or months) of disruption. Whether you’re doing it yourself with a flat pack kitchen or working with trades, having a clear timeline can make the whole process smoother and far less stressful.
Start by factoring in the preparation phase, and give it the time it deserves. This includes researching layouts, choosing materials, and measuring your space. Don’t rush this step. The more planning you do upfront, the fewer surprises you’ll face later. With Kit Kitchens, you can use our planner tools to visualise your space and finalise your layout before ordering, which can save a lot of back and forth later on.
Next comes ordering and lead times. Once you’ve placed your order for cabinetry, benchtops, appliances, or other fittings, allow time for manufacturing and delivery. Flat pack kitchens often arrive faster than custom builds, but it’s still smart to check the current turnaround time when placing your order. In general, allow 2-4 weeks from final order to delivery, though this can vary depending on supplier capacity and your chosen materials.
Once your products arrive, you enter the demolition and preparation stage. If you’re pulling out the old kitchen, expect this to take a couple of days. It can be messy, so prepare for some dust and disruption. It’s also the time to address any structural or electrical changes, such as moving plumbing or adding power points. This phase often involves multiple trades, so coordination is key.
Then comes installation, the most exciting part. Flat pack cabinets are designed for quick assembly, and confident DIYers can often handle this themselves. But if you’re using a professional, schedule your installer early. This stage typically takes 2–5 days depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the kitchen. Benchtops, especially stone, may be templated and installed a few days later once cabinets are in place.
Appliance fitting and final touches come last. This includes installing your sink, connecting tapware, fitting your oven or cooktop, and finishing any splashbacks or tiling. If you’re tiling or painting, allow drying time between stages.
Don’t forget clean-up – small as it seems, it can take a day or two to get the space fully operational again.
So, what’s a realistic total timeline? For a standard renovation using flat pack cabinetry, you’re generally looking at:
- 1-2 weeks for planning and measuring
- 2-4 weeks for ordering and delivery
- 1 week for demolition and prep
- 1 week for installation and fit-off
All up, about 5-8 weeks from first planning to finished kitchen. Of course, things like material availability, tradie schedules, and renovation scope can stretch this out. But having a realistic plan helps you manage expectations and stay in control.
The key is not just to plan when each step happens, but to plan for what could go wrong. Build in a few buffer days between stages and have a backup plan if delays crop up. With the right prep, a clear schedule, and support from a supplier like Kit Kitchens, your renovation doesn’t have to drag on or derail your daily life.
