A Couple’s Budget Friendly Transformation
When a young couple, Stepfani and Andrew purchased their charming three-bedroom home they had a deep personal connection. Growing up in the home, Andrew cherished the memories of his earlier days.
Determined to honour the past while embracing modern design, the couple set out on a budget friendly kitchen renovation that would also transform their cramped laundry.
Their vision to create a modern look for their Wantirna South Kitchen and Laundry Renovation. The renovation needed to be functional, yet budget friendly that would guide every decision. The result is a stunning blend of nostalgia and modern functionality.
Before Kitchen Renovation
Designing Their Budget Friendly Kitchen
During extensive research online Stefani discovered Kitchen Shack’s Instagram and fell in love with the timber laminate style featured. Having noticed the high quality finishes at a fraction of the cost of custom cabinetry they visited the showroom.
It was at the showroom that San, Kitchen Shack designer, brought their ideas to life so they could visualise what their final kitchen would look like.
Stefani’s background in visual merchandising gave her an edge in making cost-effective yet visually stunning choices.
They selected affordable yet stylish finishes to achieve the high end look without the designer price tag. Clean lined cabinetry matched with crisp benchtops and a subway splashback that would add the touch of elegance. A large central window above the sink fills the kitchen with natural light, highlighting the open plan layout and making the space feel both bright and inviting.
Modern Functionality Meets Nostalgia
The couple opted to keep the u-shaped layout with the feature central island bench that serves as a versatile hub and preserves the home’s original structure.
This is a smart decision to save costs. By keeping plumbing and electrical outlets in place, the couple avoided expensive changes, allowing more of the budget to go toward quality finishes and design details.
Creating a Modern-Scandi Kitchen
Keeping in line with the timber trims throughout the home, they were seeking a warm Modern-Scandi aesthetic that would feel timeless and inviting. With expert guidance from San, at Kitchen Shack, the selection process was smooth and stress-free.
Clever design solutions to maximise storage and functionality in their compact kitchen was key.
This design cleverly includes cabinetry to the ceiling, an appliance cabinet, a double-door pantry next to the fridge and a corner pantry providing ample storage. These thoughtful details ensure the kitchen remains both practical and beautifully streamlined.
The final selected materials that created this harmonious and stylish space included:
- ️Excel Sublime Teak cabinetry in a vertical grain. The island bench features the same finish, but with a horizontal grain to add subtle contrast and visual interest.
- YDL Classic White benchtops to keep a simple and minimal white surface with subtle texture, perfectly balancing the warmth of the timber cabinets.
- National Tiles Classic white subway tiles for a splashback. These have been laid in a vertical pattern to enhance the sense of height and create a fresh, clean look.
- Temple & Webster pendant lights – a great bargain at just $20 each adding the perfect finishing touch without blowing the budget!
Laundry Renovation for a Functional Update
Stefani and Andrew saw the benefits of renovating the kitchen and laundry together – saving time, money, and avoiding future disruptions. With trades already on-site, they took the opportunity to upgrade the laundry with Inspire White cabinetry. Adding extra storage under the bench and a full-height broom cupboard creates a clean, functional space that complements their modern design of their Wantirna South kitchen.
A Renovation to Remember
Stefani and Andrew’s project is an example of how thoughtful planning and budget friendly choices can transform a cherished home into a modern, functional space. Their Wantirna South kitchen and laundry renovation seamlessly blends the past into the present, proving that high end style that is achievable on any budget.
If you’re ready to create a new budget friendly kitchen then let’s chat, or if you’re keen to see another Kitchen Shack Scandi Style kitchen head to our Prahran Kitchen Renovation.
