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Jul
by

From Dated to Dreamy: Our Kitchen Reno Story

There’s something about a kitchen that sets the tone for the whole house. It’s where the coffee gets brewed, school lunches get packed, and more often than not, where everyone ends up hanging out. But when we first stepped into this kitchen… it was more “what were they thinking?!” than heart of the home.

When we bought this house, the kitchen came with… let’s just say, character. We’re talking slate tiles glued over stunning timber floorboards (I know), a corner oven tucked away like it was in time-out, and—my personal favourite—a patterned styrofoam ceiling. Yep. I didn’t even know that was a thing. Let’s just say, this kitchen had all the ‘90s reno energy and none of the charm.

We knew it had potential—and that it would take more than a coat of paint to make it shine. When we finally took on the renovation, we knew it had to feel like us—a bit coastal, a bit Australiana, and a whole lot more functional. We wanted a space where the kids could seamlessly spill in from the living room, where the morning sun hits just right, and where cooking dinner felt less like a chore and more like… well, a vibe.

It wasn’t just about making it look pretty. We wanted a kitchen that worked hard for a busy family. One that flowed better, felt inviting, and would stand the test of time (and toddlers). We also learned a few lessons along the way—because even as builders, renovating your own home brings a whole new perspective.

Side-by-side before and after of a kitchen renovation by Cutler Construction — transformed from a dated dark space to a modern, light-filled kitchen with white cabinetry, brass hardware, and sage green tile splashback.

Here’s what we did:

  1. Ripped up the slate to reveal the original timber floors — because some things are too good to cover up.
  2. Binned the styrofoam ceiling (with pleasure) and replaced it with a simple, clean finish.
  3. Opened up the layout by ditching the awkward corner oven and reworking the cabinetry for better flow.
  4. Installed a 900mm white Smeg oven — because if you’re going to cook for a small army (aka our family), you may as well do it in style.
  5. Chose brass handles and knobs for that luxe yet warm touch.
  6. Added oak floating shelves for texture and easy access to our everyday faves.
  7. Finished it off with a textured sage green splashback — a nod to that relaxed, coastal feel we love.
  8. Added LED strip lighting under the upper cabinets — nothing says “stay a while” like a soft glow when the sun goes down.

But honestly? The standout for me is the big centre window that frames Mt Coolum like a painting. Morning coffees, arvo sunsets, watching the kids play while I cook—this kitchen feels like the heart of our home now.

A Few Lessons from This Reno:

  1. Don’t underestimate layout flow. The right design can completely change how you live in a space. Sometimes it’s not about adding more—just rethinking what you’ve got. Functionality should lead the design, not the other way around.

2. Mix warmth with functionality. Practical doesn’t have to mean boring. Think texture, lighting, and finishes that make your kitchen feel like part of your home, not just a workspace. The best kitchens are the ones that invite you in and make you want to stay.

3. Highlight natural light. That window isn’t just pretty—it brings life into the kitchen. Wherever you can, frame a view or open up a wall. It’s always worth it. Natural light is the kind of feature you’ll never regret investing in.

4. It’s the little things that make it. Under-cabinet lighting, a statement splashback, quality hardware—these details are what take a reno from okay to “wow.” It’s often the smallest touches that leave the biggest impression.

5. Renovate for how you want to live, not just what’s trending. Trends come and go, but your home should reflect your family, your lifestyle, and the way you actually use the space. The best design is the one that works for you every single day.

6. Be patient with the process. Good things take time. The right materials, trades, and finishes are worth waiting for—and they’ll make all the difference in the long run. Don’t rush decisions or compromise on craftsmanship; it’s your home, and it’s worth doing right.

At Cutler Construction, these are the things we bring to every project — a builder’s eye for detail, a family’s understanding of how a home should feel, and a skilled team who care about the craftsmanship as much as the client experience. We believe a good build isn’t just about ticking off a scope of works — it’s about creating spaces that feel right for the people who live in them.

So, if you’re dreaming of a kitchen that actually makes you want to cook (or at least pour a glass of wine while you pretend to), we’d love to chat. Whether you’re renovating, building, or just gathering ideas — we’re here to bring your vision to life with a team you can trust to get it right.