Wondering how to transform a 80’s townhouse kitchen and laundry without blowing the budget?
Our Kitchen Shack clients knew the kitchen space in their Oakleigh 80’s townhouse was a reasonable size and had great natural light from the north. However, it was tired, dull and not exactly a joy to spend time in.
With the intention to sell their property in the near-future, the young couple were keen to add value without over capitalising. Knowing that potential buyers would focus on the kitchen and laundry, that was where they were prepared to invest.
Renovating to sell means there were certain things to consider, such as:
✏️Appealing to a broad audience that would buy in the area,
✏️Keeping the palette neutral to attract more buyers, and
✏️Staying on budget
Starting the ‘Townhouse makeover’ process
After plenty of research and ideas set in their mind they went to Kitchen Shack for their design consultation. Sometimes the best solutions are often the simplest. So to create more open space and light, the couple had decided to sacrifice one wall of kitchen cabinetry, making way for a new opening into the adjoining living area.
Immediately, the once cramped and dull space, expanded into a free-flowing kitchen and dining area. Our Kitchen Shack designer was able to utilise the two walls of the new space, with functional design and super-efficient storage solutions.
With the help of the designer they chose an all-white palette, to reflect more light. Using the white Shaker cabinetry and YDL Stone Alaska benchtops they could visualise their space in real life 3D renders. To avoid the space feeling too cold or sterile, they added brass finger-pull handles.
To complete the fresh, organic ‘Byron Bay vibe’ they chose elegant brass tapware and a textured floor tile, in a terracotta-look from Tile Cloud. The process was made easier now having visualised their future space.
Top 5 ideas needed in this kitchen renovation
Our Kitchen Shack designer was able to incorporate their ideas and wishes into the existing space, without the hassle of redirecting plumbing and electrical. This saved them a lot of money and time.
Top of their wishlist was…
✏️ White, clean cabinetry.
✏️ Maximise the natural northern light over workspaces.
✏️ Plenty of storage for large appliances.
✏️ Pantry for everyday essentials.
✏️ Better workflow and plenty of bench space.
Laundry Renovation
Knowing they would also renovate their laundry in time to come it made sense to do both saving on installer and trades costs. The laundry space was small and cluttered, with overheads and an old trough sink, not exactly inviting!
The new laundry now doubles as a powder room to the adjacent guest toilet. Using the same shaker cabinetry and brass tapware ensures the townhouse has the same look and feel. The laundry is now elevated to a whole new level.
Installation process
Installation day arrived and all the cabinetry was delivered on time and the assembled components were ready to fit into place.
The installers, plumber and electrician arrived and set about changing their space. Once completed the templates were collected and two weeks later the stone benchtops were fitted into space. The trades then came back to fit off and the tiler completed the splashback and floor tiles.
With our clients both working busy jobs, and often from home, the convenience of having a quick renovation was incredibly important to them. The simple process not only saved time in completing two spaces at once but also saved on money with installers and trades.
Adding that personal touch to the renovation.
Once the design plans were finalised the finishing touches created their personal taste.
To compliment their all-white kitchen and bring warmth and character into their kitchen, they added;
✏️ Brass handles.
✏️ Terracotta-look floor tiles.
✏️ Open shelving to add that favourite cooking book or plants.
The finished result.
Our clients were keen to add value to their home for resale, but knew they also wanted a better lifestyle to enjoy with family and friends before they sold in a couple of years.
With the two most commonly used spaces now renovated it feels like the entire townhouse is new. The Oakleigh couple now love entertaining with ease, cooking meals together, and enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning sun. They are thrilled with the results of their Kitchen Shack renovation.
If your apartment or townhouse needs a kitchen or laundry update like this one, now’s a great time to book your Free In-store Design Appointment.
