A kitchen is the heart of the home, but a poorly planned renovation can leave you with more headaches than home-cooked meals. Whether you’re replacing a tired old space or building your dream kitchen from scratch, this guide is your no-nonsense breakdown of what to expect from a kitchen installation on the Central Coast.
Let’s walk through the entire process so you know exactly what to expect.
What does a kitchen installation involve?
Installing a kitchen is not just about fitting cabinets and appliances. It’s a staged process involving multiple trades, careful planning, and seamless execution.
A professional kitchen installation generally includes:
- Design consultation
- Demolition of the old kitchen
- Plumbing and electrical adjustments
- Cabinetry and benchtop fitting
- Appliance installation
- Final detailing and finishes
At Galley Kitchens, you’ll be guided through every stage. Their in-house designers help shape your vision without the extra cost of external design fees.
Why choose local for your kitchen installation on the Central Coast?
Working with a local kitchen manufacturer offers several practical advantages. For Central Coast residents, that means better service, shorter lead times and more accountability.
Galley Kitchens has been installing custom kitchens across the Central Coast, Newcastle and Sydney since 1991. As a family-run business, they understand the unique layouts of homes in the area, and how to build kitchens that match both style and function.
Benefits of choosing a local installer like Galley:
- Faster response times
- Custom-built to suit your space
- Access to a local showroom
- One point of contact throughout the process
What is the step-by-step process for kitchen installation?
Here’s a breakdown of how a standard kitchen installation unfolds at Galley Kitchens:
1. Initial Design Consultation
You’ll begin with a design appointment with an in-house kitchen designer. They’ll help refine your ideas, measure your space, and create a plan that works for your lifestyle.
The best part? At Galley, custom kitchen design is included — no extra design fees.
2. Demolition and Preparation
Old cabinetry, benchtops, and splashbacks are removed. Plumbing and electrical work are roughed in at this stage. Preparation is crucial, as mistakes here can delay the entire job.
3. Manufacturing and Custom Build
The kitchen is manufactured locally at Galley’s Central Coast factory. Since it’s not flat-pack or off-the-shelf, everything is made to fit perfectly.
This also ensures fewer onsite issues and faster installation.
4. Installation of Cabinets and Benchtops
Once the kitchen is built, installers fit the cabinetry and benchtops. This step brings your new kitchen to life.
5. Appliance and Finish Fit-Off
Appliances, tapware, handles, lighting and other details are added. This is where functionality and design meet.
6. Final Inspection and Handover
Galley performs a final quality check before handover. You’ll get a walk-through of the finished space to ensure everything is completed to your satisfaction.
What are the biggest kitchen installation mistakes to avoid?
Renovating a kitchen can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Not planning power points
Don’t wait until installation to decide where your toaster, kettle or microwave will go. - Choosing style over function
That trendy matte-black tap might look great but is it practical for your household? - Poor layout
The kitchen work triangle (fridge, stove, sink) still matters. Don’t compromise workflow for aesthetics. - Underestimating storage needs
You’ll always need more space than you think. Factor in pantry, drawers and overheads early. - Hiring separate trades
Having multiple contractors can lead to coordination issues. Galley’s end-to-end service avoids this entirely. - Using flat-pack cabinets
They may be cheaper, but they’re rarely made to measure. Galley’s kitchens are fully custom-built, ensuring a perfect fit.
How much does a kitchen installation cost on the Central Coast?
There’s no one-size-fits-all price for kitchen installations because each space and design is different. However, here’s a general breakdown to help you budget:
| Installation Component | Approximate Cost Range |
| Design consultation | Free at Galley Kitchens |
| Demolition & prep work | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Custom cabinetry | $8,000 – $20,000+ |
| Benchtops (laminate to stone) | $2,000 – $10,000+ |
| Appliances | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Labour & installation | $3,000 – $6,000 |
Total Range: $17,000 – $49,000+
Want a more accurate estimate? You can get in touch with Galley to book a personalised consultation.
What to look for in a kitchen installer
Not all kitchen installers are created equal. Here’s what to consider before signing off:
- Experience
Look for a business with a long-standing reputation. Galley has been in the industry for over 30 years. - Customisation
Avoid companies that push fixed templates. A good installer will design for your lifestyle, not the showroom’s. - In-house manufacturing
Galley’s local production means you get better quality control and faster turnarounds. - Showroom access
Being able to see and touch materials beforehand helps with decision-making. Galley’s showroom is open to the public. - Portfolio
Always ask to see past work. Galley’s gallery of real kitchens showcases a wide variety of completed installations.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Renovation Journey?
If you’re planning a kitchen installation on the Central Coast, now you know what to expect and how to avoid costly missteps.
From free in-house design to fully customised cabinetry, Galley Kitchens offers a seamless, start-to-finish service that makes the process enjoyable — and surprisingly stress-free.
Want to bring your dream kitchen to life? Contact us today to get started.
