Modern Kitchen Upgrade with Outdoor Deck in Burwood East

Project Overview

This project transformed an outdated kitchen into a fresh, modern, and easy-to-use space. The aim was to make the kitchen brighter, add more storage, and improve the layout. A hidden laundry was added behind a sliding door, and a new outdoor deck was built, connecting the kitchen to the outside area. The work included removing walls, installing new finishes, adding new cabinets, and creating a deck for everyday use and family gatherings.

Since the house was located in a 1-in-100-year flood zone, the design needed to meet specific compliance requirements. The Refresh Renovation team managed the entire project, including design work, engineering, permits, and construction.

Client Goals

The client wanted a fresh, modern kitchen with a clean layout and updated materials. The vision included:

• A stylish kitchen that feels like the centre of the home
• Better natural light and open flow
• A hidden European laundry behind a sliding door
• A beautiful outdoor deck for dining and socialising
• A more modern overall look with natural timber finishes
• A design that improved functionality without unnecessary structural costs

They also planned to improve the outdoor area to create a smooth connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Budget & Scope Decisions

The client initially explored three designs. The first design, before Refresh took over, was priced at around $250,000. A second version was estimated at approximately $400,000, which included a larger structural change. After revisiting the project requirements and long-term goals, the scope was scaled back to achieve a modern renovation without unnecessary extensions.

The final build cost came to $211,600, slightly above the original $200,000 budget due to additional variations requested during construction. These changes were approved during the build and reflected the client’s desire to get the best finish for the space.

Design & Planning

This renovation required both design and engineering work. The Refresh Renovation team handled the kitchen design, engineering approvals, and building permits needed for the outdoor deck. Internal improvements were cosmetic upgrades and layout changes, while the deck required compliance with flood-zone regulations.

Key design decisions included:

• Timber cabinetry to highlight natural grain patterns
• White stone benchtops to balance warmth with a modern look
• Black tapware and sink to add contrast
• A sliding door system to hide the European laundry
• A layout that improved the flow between the kitchen and the outdoor area
• Deck design that matched height and level requirements

The design focused on style, practicality, and long-term use.

Construction & Execution

Construction took 86 days, slightly under the 4-month estimate. To minimise disruption, work was planned in stages and coordinated across multiple trades.

Work completed included:

• Demolition and wall removal
• New kitchen installation
• Electrical upgrades
• Plumbing and drainage
• Cabinetry and benchtops
• Flooring and painting
• Outdoor deck construction
• Finishing and detailing

Refresh handled all trades directly, including carpentry, tiling, plumbing, electrical, plastering, painting, glazing, earthworks, and demolition.

Challenges

The main challenge was meeting flood-zone rules, because the home is in a 1-in-100-year flood area. The new deck had to meet strict height and level requirements to remain safe and comply with council standards. The team worked with engineers and followed all guidelines before starting construction.

The client also requested a few extra changes during the build, which increased the final cost. These updates were clearly discussed and approved before moving forward.

Final Result & Features

The finished kitchen is warm, open, and visually striking. Key highlights include:

• Rich timber cabinetry showcasing natural grain patterns
• White stone benchtops for a clean and elegant finish
• Black sink and tapware for a modern contrast
• Hidden European laundry behind a sliding door
• Seamless transition to an outdoor deck, perfect for entertaining

The outdoor deck also adds usable space and improves sunlight and movement between indoors and outdoors.

The renovation gave the home a refreshed look without needing major structural expansion. It feels modern, inviting, and spacious, perfect for everyday living and hosting guests.

Final Thoughts

This Burwood East renovation shows how thoughtful planning can make a big difference without spending money on major extensions. By keeping the design clear and working carefully with all the rules and trades, the team created a fresh, modern kitchen that opens onto a new deck. 

The home now looks better, feels more open, and is more enjoyable to live in. It also adds significant value if the homeowner decides to sell in the future.