If you’ve ever heard someone say their kitchen renovation took twice as long as expected, they’re probably not exaggerating. Ask anyone in the industry and they’ll tell you: kitchens almost always take longer than you think. Dave Wilson from Mastercraft Kitchens has seen it time and again. “You’ve got to give yourself as much time as possible. It’s always going to take longer than one, you think, and two, you want,” he said.

Part of the reason is complexity. A kitchen isn’t just cabinetry and appliances. It’s plumbing, electrical, flooring, benchtops, and finishing touches, all coming together in one room. Each trade has its own schedule, and most need to return more than once. An electrician, for example, does the pre-wire before installation, then comes back later for the final fit-off. If one step runs late, the knock-on effect can push everything else out.

Materials can also cause delays. Benchtops, tiles, and appliances are often made to order, and a missed delivery date can stall progress. Add in the busyness of the building industry and it’s easy to see why timelines stretch. Nobody is sitting around waiting for work.

So how do you keep your project under control? The key is planning backwards from when you want your kitchen finished. If you’re dreaming of a new kitchen ready for Christmas, you should be talking to a designer by mid-year. That gives you time to finalise plans, order materials, and lock in trades before the rush. It also means you’re not making rushed decisions that you’ll regret later.

The truth is, there’s no magic shortcut. Renovations are living projects that involve many moving parts. But by engaging a designer early, clarifying who is managing the project, and being realistic about timelines, you give yourself the best chance of a smooth process. A kitchen renovation is a big investment, and when it’s done properly, it’s worth the wait.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.