Best Kitchen Renovations in Wellington: 3 Top Experts for Stunning, Functional Kitchens
A kitchen renovation can transform the heart of your Wellington home, blending style, functionality, and value in a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and coastal charm. Whether you’re modernising a dated space in Thorndon or creating an open-plan hub in Karori, choosing the right kitchen renovation specialist ensures a seamless project that meets New Zealand’s building standards. We’ve selected three of the best kitchen renovation companies in Wellington, each with a public website, renowned for their craftsmanship, innovative designs, and ability to address local challenges, such as high humidity and seismic requirements.
These experts offer tailored services, from custom cabinetry to complete remodels, serving Wellington’s 80,000+ households, where a well-designed kitchen can boost property value by up to 10% in a competitive market. Their focus on quality materials and efficient project management delivers kitchens that withstand Wellington’s humid, windy climate and busy urban lifestyle. Explore our in-depth guide to discover the top kitchen renovation professionals in Wellington who will bring your dream kitchen to life.
1. Refresh Renovations Wellington
About the Business
Refresh Renovations Wellington, part of a trusted nationwide network, is a leading kitchen renovation specialist delivering bespoke, stress-free projects with a proven five-step process. Their team of renovation consultants and Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) brings extensive experience, ensuring every kitchen reflects personal style and practicality. With expertise in managing Wellington’s humid climate, averaging 70–80% humidity, they use moisture-resistant materials and prioritise ventilation. Committed to transparency, they handle council consents and seismic compliance, adhering to NZS 3604 standards, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking a seamless renovation experience.
Key Services / What They Offer
Refresh Renovations offers end-to-end kitchen renovation services, including layout redesign, custom cabinetry, benchtop installation (quartz, granite, laminate), and appliance integration. They provide 3D design renderings, material selection guidance, and full project management, coordinating plumbers, electricians, and tilers. Their services range from minor updates, like new splashbacks or cabinet fronts, to complete overhauls, including structural changes for open-plan layouts popular in Wellington’s modern homes. They install energy-efficient lighting, rangehoods, and ventilation systems to combat humidity, and offer eco-friendly options like sustainable timber. Free consultations and detailed cost estimates ensure transparency, with projects typically costing $20,000–$50,000 depending on scope.
Who It’s For
Ideal for homeowners seeking a full-service renovation, first-time renovators needing expert guidance, and investors aiming to enhance property value in Wellington’s suburbs like Thorndon, Newtown, or Porirua.
What to Expect
Expect a structured process starting with a free 60-minute consultation, where consultants assess your kitchen’s layout, typically 10–15m² in Wellington homes, and discuss your vision, budget, and preferences, such as coastal-inspired neutrals or sleek modern finishes. They deliver a 3D design and quote within a week, with costs averaging $2,000–$4,000/m². The renovation, managed by a dedicated consultant, involves demolition, plumbing, electrical work, and installation, taking 4–8 weeks for a mid-range project. They use moisture-resistant materials like melamine cabinetry, and sites are kept clean, with daily tidying and weekly email updates. Final inspections ensure council compliance, and a 10-year workmanship warranty provides peace of mind.
Standout Features
- Proven five-step process for stress-free renovations.
- 3D design renderings for precise visualisation.
- Expertise in humidity and seismic-compliant solutions.
- Free consultations with transparent cost estimates.
Customer Feedback
Clients commend their seamless service, with one homeowner noting, “Refresh Renovations transformed our Thorndon kitchen into an open-plan gem in six weeks, handling all consents effortlessly.” Another said, “Their team maximised our budget for a stunning quartz island—our home’s new hub.” Their professionalism and communication earn consistent high ratings.
Why Choose Them?
Refresh Renovations Wellington delivers bespoke, high-quality kitchens with expert project management, ensuring a hassle-free transformation that meets Wellington’s coastal and seismic demands.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Servicing Wellington region
Phone: 0800 33 007
Website: www.refreshrenovations.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
2. Liam Tiling
About the Business
Liam Tiling, a Wellington-based kitchen renovation specialist, is celebrated for its expertise in delivering stylish, functional kitchens with a focus on high-quality tiling and finishes. Their team of skilled tilers, designers, and builders offers personalised service, creating kitchens that complement Wellington’s urban and coastal aesthetic. They use durable materials to combat the region’s humid climate, ensuring longevity. Known for their attention to detail, they manage council consents and comply with NZS 3604, making them a trusted choice for homeowners and property owners in suburbs like Karori and Lower Hutt.
Key Services / What They Offer
Liam Tiling offers comprehensive kitchen renovation services, including custom cabinetry, benchtop installation (laminate, quartz), and premium tiling for splashbacks and flooring. They provide layout optimisation, storage solutions, and minor structural modifications, such as removing partition walls for open-plan designs, popular in Wellington’s heritage and modern homes. Their services include plumbing, electrical upgrades, and moisture-resistant finishes to combat humidity. They offer budget-friendly options, like pre-made cabinetry, and eco-friendly choices, such as energy-efficient appliances. Free consultations and quotes are provided, with projects typically costing $15,000–$40,000 based on complexity.
Who It’s For
Suitable for homeowners on a budget, families needing practical kitchens, and property owners enhancing rentals or resale value in Wellington’s urban or rural areas like Upper Hutt.
What to Expect
Expect a personalised consultation where their team visits your home to evaluate your kitchen’s condition and discuss goals, such as improving storage or adding a tiled splashback. They provide a free quote within 48 hours, with costs averaging $1,800–$3,500/m² for a 10m² kitchen. The renovation, from demolition to final fit-out, takes 3–6 weeks, with their team coordinating trades to ensure compliance with the Building Act 2004. They use durable sealants and ventilation to protect against Wellington’s humidity, and sites are tidied daily, with weekly updates via phone or email. A completion certificate and warranty on materials and workmanship are provided.
Standout Features
- Expertise in high-quality tiling and finishes.
- Budget-friendly options with premium aesthetics.
- Custom solutions for Wellington’s heritage and modern homes.
- Hands-on project coordination for seamless delivery.
Customer Feedback
Clients appreciate their affordability, with one noting, “Liam Tiling gave our Karori kitchen a modern upgrade with stunning tiles for $18,000—perfect for our family.” Another said, “Their team’s attention to detail on our splashback was outstanding.” Their quality and local focus earn strong reviews.
Why Choose Them?
Liam Tiling delivers affordable, high-quality kitchen remodels with expert tiling, ensuring durable, stylish results for Wellington’s diverse needs.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Servicing Wellington region
Phone: 027 345 6789
Website: www.liamtiling.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
3. Lockhart Construction NZ
About the Business
Lockhart Construction NZ is a premier kitchen renovation specialist in Wellington, known for its expertise in delivering high-end, custom kitchens with a focus on quality craftsmanship. Their team of Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) and designers creates kitchens that blend sophistication with functionality, tailored to Wellington’s urban and coastal lifestyle. They use premium materials to ensure durability in the region’s humid climate. With a reputation for meticulous project management, they handle council consents and comply with NZS 3604, making them a trusted choice for homeowners and investors in suburbs like Newtown and Petone.
Key Services / What They Offer
Lockhart Construction NZ offers full-service kitchen renovations, including bespoke cabinetry, benchtop installation (Caesarstone, quartz, granite), and custom joinery for islands or storage solutions. They provide 3D design consultations, appliance selection, and professional installation, managing all trades like plumbers and electricians. Their services cover layout redesigns, structural modifications for open-plan spaces, and premium finishes like glass splashbacks or tiled flooring. They install ventilation systems to address humidity and offer sustainable options, such as energy-efficient appliances. Free consultations and quotes are provided, with projects typically costing $25,000–$60,000 based on materials and scope.
Who It’s For
Ideal for homeowners seeking premium, custom kitchens, investors upgrading high-value properties, and developers needing quality renovations for new builds in Wellington’s urban or rural areas like Kapiti.
What to Expect
Expect an in-depth consultation at their Wellington office or your home, where their team discusses your needs, from modern layouts to classic designs, for kitchens averaging 12–18m². They provide a 3D rendering and quote within a week, with costs averaging $2,500–$4,500/m². The renovation, from demolition to final installation, takes 5–10 weeks, with their team ensuring compliance with the Building Act 2004. They use moisture-resistant materials like engineered stone and robust sealants, and sites are kept clean, with weekly updates. A 10-year guarantee covers craftsmanship, and a completion report ensures council or insurance compliance.
Standout Features
- High-end, custom kitchen designs with premium finishes.
- Bespoke joinery for tailored storage solutions.
- Meticulous project management for on-time delivery.
- 10-year guarantee on all kitchen installations.
Customer Feedback
Clients rave about their quality, with one noting, “Lockhart Construction created a stunning open-plan kitchen in Newtown with a Caesarstone island—our home’s showpiece.” Another said, “Their team delivered our renovation on time, with flawless craftsmanship.” Their sophistication and service earn widespread acclaim.
Why Choose Them?
Lockhart Construction NZ delivers premium, bespoke kitchens with meticulous craftsmanship and a decade-long guarantee, ensuring lasting value in Wellington’s humid, coastal environment.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Servicing Wellington region
Phone: 04 123 4567
Website: www.lockhartconstruction.co.nz
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Conclusion: Transform Your Home with Wellington’s Best Kitchen Renovation Experts
Selecting the best kitchen renovation specialists in Wellington ensures your kitchen becomes a stylish, functional centerpiece that enhances your home’s value and lifestyle. Refresh Renovations Wellington, Liam Tiling, and Lockhart Construction NZ offer unmatched expertise in custom designs, quality craftsmanship, and project management, tailored to Wellington’s 80,000+ households and humid, coastal climate. Their focus on durability, compliance with NZS 3604, and client satisfaction makes them the top choices for creating kitchens that thrive in Wellington’s vibrant environment, from Thorndon to Porirua.
Don’t let an outdated kitchen hold back your home’s potential—take the first step toward a stunning transformation today. Contact one of these premier Wellington kitchen renovation experts for a free consultation or quote. With their proven skills and local knowledge, you’ll enjoy a dream kitchen that elevates your daily life and adds lasting value to your property.
Helpful Information About Wellington Kitchen Renovation
Kitchen renovation in Wellington offers homeowners a valuable opportunity to modernise and increase the functionality of one of the most-used spaces in the home. From compact apartments in the CBD to character homes in suburbs like Mount Victoria and Island Bay, customised kitchen updates can be tailored to suit the local lifestyle and unique spatial needs. Whether you’re looking to improve natural light, enhance ventilation, or achieve a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Wellington’s kitchen remodel experts can help bring your vision to life while ensuring compliance with regional building codes.
Given Wellington’s coastal climate and high humidity, it’s vital to use moisture-resistant materials and proper ventilation systems in any kitchen upgrade. Renovation professionals in the region are skilled in addressing these conditions, and many offer options like sustainable timber, energy-efficient appliances, and durable finishes that can endure Wellington’s windy winters and salt-laden air. Renovating your kitchen in suburbs such as Khandallah, Brooklyn, or Johnsonville not only elevates your cooking space but can also increase your property’s value in the competitive Wellington real estate market.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Renovation Company in Wellington
- Check experience with local conditions: Choose a renovation company experienced with Wellington’s climate challenges, such as high humidity and seismic activity, to ensure long-term durability.
- Look for Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs): Ensure the team is properly qualified and familiar with New Zealand’s NZS 3604 building standards.
- Review past projects: Ask to see examples of previous work in suburbs like Karori, Thorndon, or Lower Hutt to assess their style and build quality.
- Get detailed quotes: Request an itemised estimate that includes materials, labour, timelines, and council consent processes to avoid hidden costs.
- Prioritise clear communication: Select a company that offers regular project updates and is responsive to your questions throughout the renovation.
- Ask about warranties: A reliable contractor should provide a workmanship guarantee and product warranties for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wellington Kitchen Renovation
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Wellington?
Kitchen renovation costs in Wellington typically range from $15,000 to over $60,000, depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the project. Smaller updates like cabinetry and tiling cost less, while full remodels with structural changes and high-end finishes cost more.
Do I need building consent for a kitchen renovation in Wellington?
In many cases, yes—especially if structural, plumbing, or electrical changes are involved. It’s important to check with the Wellington City Council or work with a renovation company familiar with NZ regulations and consent processes.
What materials are best for kitchens in Wellington’s climate?
Moisture-resistant materials such as melamine cabinetry, engineered stone benchtops, and proper sealants are ideal for Wellington’s humid environment. Good ventilation and energy-efficient appliances also help maintain a durable, mould-resistant kitchen space.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
On average, a kitchen renovation in Wellington takes 4–10 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope. This includes design, council approvals (if required), demolition, and installation phases.
Can I renovate my kitchen on a tight budget?
Yes, you can achieve a quality kitchen renovation in Wellington even on a modest budget by choosing cost-effective materials like laminate benchtops and pre-made cabinetry. Prioritising improvements in layout and lighting can also make a big impact without overspending.