A new kitchen doesn’t have to mean handing the whole job to someone else. For handy homeowners, flatpack kitchen cabinets are a practical way to get a quality kitchen while doing some or all of the assembly and installation yourself. With good planning, a DIY flatpack kitchen can look every bit as finished as a fully installed one.
Why choose flatpack for a DIY kitchen
Flatpack cabinetry is supplied ready to assemble. At Character Cabinets, our flatpack cabinets come as pre-cut and pre-finished components, so the time-consuming preparation is done before anything reaches your home. You can focus on assembly and fitting, and the cabinets are designed to suit your space, style and budget. Our flatpack range is also available through Flatpacks with Character.
Step 1: Plan your layout
Start with how you use your kitchen. Think about the work zones between the sink, cooktop and fridge, where you need bench space, and how much storage you need for pots, pantry items and appliances. Common layouts include galley, L-shape, U-shape and island kitchens.
Sketch your kitchen to scale, marking:
- Walls, windows and doors, including which way doors swing.
- Plumbing points for the sink and dishwasher.
- Power points, gas and the rangehood position.
- Appliance sizes, using the manufacturer’s dimensions.
Step 2: Measure carefully
Accurate measurements are the most important part of any flatpack kitchen. Measure each wall at several heights, because walls are rarely perfectly straight. Check floor levels and whether corners are square. Measure from the finished floor if you are replacing flooring. Write everything down and double-check it before you order.
Step 3: Choose doors, finishes and benchtops
Decide on door colours, finishes and handles that suit your home. For benchtops, laminated benchtops are a cost-effective, low-maintenance choice in a wide range of colours and stone- or timber-look finishes. If you’d like stone, timber or acrylic, our custom benchtops cover those options too.
Step 4: Order everything together
Make sure your order includes all the parts that finish the job, not just the cabinets:
- End panels and fillers for gaps against walls.
- Kickboards.
- Handles and any internal accessories.
- Benchtops sized to your layout, with sink and cooktop cut-outs confirmed.
Ordering everything at once keeps finishes consistent and avoids delays.
Step 5: Prepare the space
Remove the old kitchen, disconnect services safely and repair walls where needed. Any plumbing, electrical and gas work must be done by licensed trades. Plan these jobs early so they don’t hold up your installation.
Step 6: Assemble the cabinets
- Check every component against the packing list before you start.
- Assemble on a clean, flat surface so carcasses stay square.
- Follow the instructions in order and don’t over-tighten fixings.
- Keep doors and drawer fronts protected until the cabinets are in place.
Step 7: Install and level
Begin with the base cabinets, usually starting from a corner. Level each cabinet using the adjustable legs, then join neighbouring cabinets and fix them securely to the wall. Fit wall cabinets next, making sure they are fixed into solid framing. Install the benchtop, then fit doors, drawers, handles and kickboards. Finally, adjust the hinges so the gaps between doors are even.
Tips for a professional finish
- Use fillers and scribed panels for neat junctions with uneven walls.
- Take your time levelling: it affects how every door and drawer sits.
- Seal around the sink and along splashbacks to protect against moisture.
- Re-check door alignment a few weeks later as everything settles.
Caring for your new kitchen
Wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners. Use trivets for hot pans and chopping boards for cutting, especially on laminate. Wipe up water around the sink and joins promptly.
Not sure DIY is right for you?
If your kitchen has a complex layout or you’d rather not install it yourself, our custom cabinetry service covers design, manufacture and installation by our in-house team.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any trades for a DIY flatpack kitchen?
Yes. You can assemble and install the cabinets yourself, but plumbing, electrical and gas connections must be done by licensed trades.
Can I mix flatpack cabinets with a custom benchtop?
Yes. Flatpack cabinets can be paired with laminated or custom benchtops. Confirm benchtop sizes and cut-outs when you order the cabinets.
Talk to Character Cabinets
Have questions about planning or ordering your flatpack kitchen? Our team is happy to help. Call 08 9234 3000 or contact us to discuss your next project or request a quote.