Kitchen renovation & new butler's pantry in Melbourne

Refresh's design and build process helped these homeowners to achieve the butler's pantry of their dreams.

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Homeowners Belinda and Peter had been dreaming of including a butler’s pantry in their kitchen for a long time but, with limited space available, they didn’t know how to make this idea a reality. When their kitchen reached its 10-year anniversary, they decided to find out if there was a way to include a walk-in pantry within a modern kitchen update. Using the Refresh design and build process, local Renovation Specialist Leigh McDonald delivered.
In an initial consultation with the homeowners, Leigh discussed the pair’s design priorities. In addition to the walk-in pantry, they wanted to update all of their kitchen appliances and install a modern kitchen island bench. Using the Refresh process meant that they could perfect these ideas throughout the design and planning stages, under the guidance of a specialist, until it suited their ideas and budget.

A new kitchen design

“We designed the kitchen to have a butler’s pantry and to add more storage with overhead cupboards and back-to-back storage on the new island bench”, explains Leigh, who then combined the prices provided by his network of cabinet makers, suppliers and tradespeople to develop a cost estimate for Belinda and Peter. Originally, the estimated cost was around $33,000. Further project variations selected by Belinda and Peter brought the final cost to $52,000.
Once the design elements and costs of the project had been finalised, Leigh put together his team of demolition and waste removal specialists, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers, flooring installers, painters and decorators. He then scheduled every team member in across a planned project timeline.

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The kitchen renovation

As part of the renovation, the couples’ dream bespoke butler’s pantry was constructed with plenty of overhead shelving, cabinets, bench space, a new fridge and an extra sink. A cupboard caddy was installed to suit new internal corner cabinets. LED strip lighting was installed under the overhead shelving in both the kitchen and pantry, highlighting the engineered quartz Lavistone benchtops and splashbacks.
Deliveries and the final sanding and polishing of the flooring were delayed due to COVID-19 concerns, and consequently, the project’s timeline had to be extended. However, now that the project is complete, the homeowners have happily invited Leigh and his team back to renovate their bathroom.

Final thoughts

In a 5-star Google review, Peter states:
“We could not recommend Refresh Renovations East and South East more highly. If we could give more than five stars, we would! From beginning to end Leigh and his team made our vision a reality. Hard-working trades - efficient and detail-orientated, made sure our space was utilised efficiently and the end result exceeded our expectations.”
“Belinda and Peter love it and were a pleasure to work with”, says Leigh, adding that the colour palette and new butler’s pantry are among his favourite features within the new kitchen.
“So many compliments on the work and the high level of presentation and workmanship”, continues Peter. “It’s a pleasure to be in the kitchen every day and it has become the heart of our home. Look no further than Refresh for your next renovation. We look forward to using Leigh and his team for our next project.”