It can be daunting embarking on a kitchen renovation let alone when you have never done one before.
This client had never renovated before and it was also their first home purchase. The location and layout was perfect however the kitchen was lacking in storage and the cabinetry was falling apart. So before moving into her unit she decided an Ardeer Kitchen Renovation would be required to suit her lifestyle and personality.
Finding Kitchen Shack Maribyrnong suited her needs offering a free in-store design as budget was tight for this first homebuyer. The final result is a kitchen maximising on storage and nailing the brief of a space that is now fresh, functional and full of personality.

Before: Lacking in storage and cabinetry falling apart
The original kitchen space featured cupboards with very few drawers, lacking in storage and doors that were falling apart. The space was tight and budget was key.
Brief: Modern, Bold Colour with an Interior Design Twist
For this Ardeer Kitchen Renovation, the client brief was:
- Deliver a modern kitchen with increased storage organisation.
- Introduce bold colour to bring personality and warmth, rather than purely neutral palette
- Create an interior design feel to display kitchen items.
- Stick to a tight budget.
- One on one help throughout the renovation having never done one before.

After: Bold personality with increased storage and open shelving for interior design edge
Key Designs Features
It was clear to Hannah, Kitchen Shack Maribyrnong Designer that to save money the design needed to work around the existing layout and keeping the plumbing and electrical in the same positions.
The choice of Green cabinetry created the bold colour personality the client was seeking. The additional warmth of the overhead oak cabinetry blends seamlessly with the flooring and tiled splashback.
The open shelving has been designed instead of a bank of cabinetry to capitalise on the blank wall that was not being used. This provide a welcoming open feel whilst also adding a interior design edge. The shelving is now home to cookbooks, plants and crockery for easy reach to the dining space adjacent.
The addition of a pantry (previously lacking in the old kitchen), appliance nook and corner cabinetry solutions provides further storage options for modern living. The front island bench also has additional front cabinetry storage. The kitchen now has easier access and better organisation of pantry items, appliances and storage.
The addition of the brushed anthracite finger pull handles works seamlessly with the sink and appliances to maintain a modern day look.
The final design now incorporates brighter benchtops to lighten the space and reflect light to expand the compact unit kitchen.
The layout and appliance positioning was optimised for first home living to keep the kitchen efficient, affordable with enough bench space and functional workflow.
Embrace Modern Living
The finished kitchen is a transformation that now maximises space, feels more open, full of personality and embraces modern day living. The bold colours deliver the interior trending style without being too dramatic. The open shelves visually lift the cabinetry and gives the client space to personalise with her own flair. The design means everyday items are at hand within easy reach.
For this first home buyer, their renovation hit all the right targets: great value for money, smart interior design, bold personality and easy process to renovate. She commented that “it is delightful to wake up to each morning”. The Ardeer Kitchen Renovation is now a space that reflects how she actually lives being practical, stylish and ready for new memories.
Why Kitchen Shack is the smart choice
Kitchen Shack Designers love the challenge on tight spaces on a budget. Maximising the potential of this kitchen whilst keeping affordability front of mind is at the heart of experienced design.
By embracing bold design features with value added storage, rather than just repainting or re-tiling has added real value to our client’s unit.
At Kitchen Shack, we believe first home buyers kitchens should be as functional as they are on trend, backed by service to help you through the renovation. With our Affordable Kitchens and one-on-one personalised service throughout the renovation, we deliver on both.
If you’re ready to renovate your own kitchen (unit, townhouse or house), or you want to view another Maribyrnong Kitchen Renovation our experienced designers will work with your style, budget and space to create something that truly works like this one. Book your free in-store design below.



























