Laminex, Australia’s premier surface authority for over nine decades, has officially launched its definitive 2026 Kitchen Design & Renovation Guide to address the evolving complexities of the modern home. With the kitchen serving as the centre of daily life, this guide helps bridge the gap between good Australian design and the real-world practicalities of the renovation process.
With Australians investing an average of $30,000 in kitchen renovations, the guide provides a structured six-stage roadmap that prioritises both longevity and material knowledge. The guide provides the practical details needed for real-world Australian kitchens, highlighting the latest in surface technology.
This includes AbsoluteGrain®, which offers a durable timber aesthetic, and TrueScale™, designed specifically for large-scale applications like cabinetry and expansive island benches. Unlike traditional surfaces, TrueScale™ eliminates pattern repeats, allowing woodgrains and mineral textures to unfold naturally across large areas without interruption. Beyond material selection, the guide covers fundamental spatial requirements, including optimal bench heights and depths, alongside the layout of the essential golden “work triangle.”
Simultaneously, the guide empowers the DIY renovator by demystifying the project management process through a roadmap covering planning, budgeting, layout, style, materials, and final execution. It introduces important financial factors to consider, including the recommended 15% budget contingency to account for the unforeseen structural or plumbing challenges often encountered in Australian homes. By providing an outline of example cost tiers, the guide helps homeowners distinguish between cosmetic refreshes under $25,000 and full structural overhauls that may exceed $50,000.
By providing cost ranges, the guide helps distinguish between a simple kitchen refresh and a major renovation. Most importantly, it provides the thought starters needed to build a clear brief and mood board, making those first conversations with builders or cabinet makers much easier.
“Your budget will not only guide you in your selections of finishes and appliances, but also will help guide your architect, designer or cabinet maker.” notes Cassie James-Herrick, Director of CJH Studio. “It will give them some knowledge to the best scope of works, types of finishes, and selections that they can recommend for that budget.”
Central to this creative freedom is the expansive Laminex Colour Collection, which is supported by four curated Design Directions within the guide. These directions act as a key asset for renovators, providing the thought starters needed to pick a scheme or design that truly suits their home. By grouping the collection’s neutrals, woodgrains, and bold solids into these distinct styles, the guide simplifies the decision-making process.
To help kickstart the design process from home, the Laminex Design Ideas Page offers a digital deep dive into the full Laminex range. This online resource features curated palettes that explore different design styles, helping renovators see how various textures and colours work together in real-world settings. Designed as an easy-to-use starting point, it allows users to experiment with different combinations and narrow down their choices before committing to a final brief, while giving them the ability to order samples online.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, the Laminex showroom network provides the opportunity to experience the collection in person. These spaces allow renovators and trades to interact with large-format samples, providing a true sense of the tactile finishes and take home samples to try in their own spaces. By seeing the materials in person, homeowners can feel more confident in their selections, ensuring the final colours and textures perfectly match their vision for the space.
For more information, contact Laminex.