The Ultimate Kitchen Cabinet Buying Guide

When planning a kitchen renovation, nothing shapes the space more than your kitchen cabinets. They’re the most visible and most used element in any kitchen—impacting everything from layout and storage to style and daily function.

This kitchen cabinet guide is based on years of experience helping Perth homeowners and investors design kitchens that are not only beautiful but practical too. As manager at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of upgrading your kitchen cabinets—from improving flow and organisation to adding real value to your home.

If you’re weighing up your options or planning a renovation on a budget, this guide will help. It covers everything from layout and design tips to choosing DIY kitchen cabinets that save time, stress and money—especially if you’re renovating in Perth.

Type of Kitchen Cabinets

The first step in choosing kitchen cabinets is to consider the type of manufacturing options available. Which you choose will have a significant effect on the total cost of your kitchen. There are three main types of kitchen cabinets to consider:

Flatpack Kitchen Cabinets

Flatpack kitchens are a budget option at the lowest end of the price range. They are delivered in a box format (think Ikea or Kaboodle) and need to be DIY assembled after delivery. There are pros and cons to choosing flatpack kitchen cabinets.

• Flatpack Pros: Flatpack kitchen cabinets are the cheapest option. They also come in a wide range of colours and laminate finishes to suit your liking. They are usually also available in a wide range of configurations, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding base cabinets and wall cabinets to fit your space.
• Flatpack Cons: Flatpack kitchen cabinets are the lowest in quality and shouldn’t be expected to offer their counterparts’ longevity. They are more prone to having hinge problems and doors not aligning correctly to provide a professional finish. There’s also the strong possibility that some parts may be missing on delivery, making assembly challenging. Then there’s the time and patience needed to assemble the cabinets from scratch.

For more detail, see Flatpack Kitchen Cabinets: Are They Any Good?

Pre-Assembled Kitchen Cabinets

Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets are those sold here at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. They are similar to flatpack cabinets in the sense that they are available in set configurations of set sizes, but rather than being delivered as a flatpack; they are pre-assembled at the time of manufacturing. As such, there are pros and cons of pre-assembled kitchen cabinets to consider.

• Pre-Assemebled Pros: Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets are just that; pre-assembled. This means you don’t have to worry about any missing parts or spending days trying to put the puzzle together. Everything is done for you. The other advantage of this manufacturing option is that the end result is more robust. They are put together professionally to a higher quality to deliver a stronger product. They are often made from better quality materials and finishes than flatpack kitchens; closer to custom kitchen cabinets, yet they are considerably cheaper than custom kitchen cabinets.
• Pre-Assemebled Cons: Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets are still pre-configured and not custom-made to fit a specific wall size. Therefore, you may not get an exact fit. The quality may not be as high as custom cabinets, but that will depend on the manufacturer. (Ross’s Discount Home Centre’s pre-assembled kitchen cabinets are made of the same, if not higher-quality, materials as many custom cabinets. See Cabinet Materials) They also cost a lot more than flatpack cabinets.

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

Custom kitchen cabinets are at the top end of the price range. They are made by a local kitchen cabinetmaker and made to measure. They are usually made in their factory and/or onsite. Like the other options, they, too, present pros and cons.

• Custom Pros: Custom kitchen cabinets are designed from the ground up to fit your exact space, style, and storage needs. Every element — from the materials and finishes to the hardware and internal configurations — can be personalised to suit your vision. The result is cabinetry that looks and feels truly one-of-a-kind, offering a premium level of craftsmanship that’s difficult to replicate. For homeowners wanting total design freedom and a seamless, built-in appearance, custom cabinetry represents the highest level of quality and luxury available.
• Custom Cons: Custom kitchen cabinets are also the most expensive option on the market. Beyond the cost of materials, you’re paying for design consultations, manufacturing, delivery, and the cabinetmaker’s labour — which can add up quickly. Lead times are often lengthy, and small changes during production can increase both cost and delay. While the result can be spectacular, many Perth homeowners find that the high expense and extended process make custom cabinetry less practical for everyday renovations compared to modern pre-assembled alternatives.

For more detail, see Custom Kitchen Cabinets: Are They Worth It?

Unit Types: Understanding the Units That Make Up Your Kitchen

Before you choose colours or handles, you need to get your layout right—and that starts with understanding your cabinet options. The right mix of cabinet types will help you design a functional kitchen that looks good and works even better.

At Ross’s, we group our kitchen cabinets into four main categories: Base Cabinets, Drawer Cabinets, Wall Cabinets, and Pantry Cabinets. Each plays a specific role in storage, layout, and usability. Get the balance right, and you’ll have a kitchen that feels custom—without the custom price tag.

Let’s start with the foundation of every kitchen: the base cabinets.

Kitchen Base Cabinets

Kitchen base cabinets sit directly on the floor and form the backbone of your kitchen layout. They hold your benchtops, house your appliances, and provide deep storage for everyday items like dishes, plates, and pots and pans.

Our range includes everything from shelf cabinets to specialised pull-out bin units, and base cabinets with utility baskets. These are perfect for separating items and keeping your space organised.

We also offer base microwave cabinets with drawer and wall oven units. And for tricky corners, our corner base cabinets and blind corner cabinets with swing shelves make use of space that often goes to waste.

For smaller kitchens, I usually recommend sticking with more drawers and corner units to maximise storage. In larger layouts, you can add bin cabinets and utility baskets for extra convenience. And because all our cabinets come fully pre-assembled, it’s as simple as unpacking them and fixing them into place—no flatpack headache required.

TL;DR: Kitchen base cabinets are your kitchen’s foundation. Choose a smart mix of drawers, bins, and corner units to make everyday cooking and cleaning easier—and enjoy quick, fuss-free installation with Ross’s pre-assembled range.

Kitchen Drawer Cabinets

Drawer cabinets are a must-have in any modern kitchen layout. Unlike traditional shelf cabinets, drawers give you full visibility and easy access to everything inside—no more reaching into the back for that one saucepan or missing lid.

At Ross’s, we offer a range of kitchen drawers, including single-drawer, two-drawer, and deep pot drawers designed for bulkier items. These are ideal for storing pots and pans, baking trays, mixing bowls, utensils, and even pantry items like tinned food or snacks. They’re also a great alternative to shelves for storing kitchen storage items like tea towels, cutlery, and cooking tools.

The most common question I get in-store is whether drawers are worth the extra investment—and my answer is always yes. When placed smartly below cooktops or next to prep areas, they make your kitchen far more efficient. For more detailed tips, check out our full guide to choosing kitchen drawers.

TL;DR: Kitchen Drawer cabinets improve access and organisation in your kitchen. Use them for pots, pans, and pantry items to make everyday cooking easier and more efficient.

Kitchen Wall (Overhead) Cabinets

Kitchen wall cabinets are essential for maximising vertical space and boosting your kitchen’s storage without taking up any floor area. They help create that built-in look while giving you easy access to everyday items like cups and glasses.

Our range of overhead wall cabinets includes single door, double door, and three-door options—as well as corner units for making the most of awkward spaces. You’ll also find handy microwave hutch wall cabinets, above-fridge cabinets, and exhaust fan cabinets, all pre-assembled and ready to install.

These cabinets are perfect for Perth homes where space is at a premium. Whether you’re working with a small galley layout or creating a larger open-plan kitchen, adding overheads gives you more room to store what you need—without cluttering your benchtop. For more inspiration, check out our guide to overhead cabinet types and configurations.

TL;DR: Overhead kitchen cabinets add smart storage above your bench and appliances—ideal for cups, glasses, and everyday use without crowding your workspace.

Pantry Cabinets

Pantry cabinets are the tall storage heroes of any kitchen or laundry. Whether you’re storing food, appliances, cleaning supplies, or even linens, these units offer the vertical space that smaller cabinets simply can’t.

Our pantry range includes Single Door Pantry Cupboards, Double Door Pantry Cupboards, Single Door Pull-Out Pantry Cupboards, and Pantry Toppers—all pre-assembled and ready to go. While most customers use them for kitchen storage, they also work brilliantly as broom and linen cabinets when you need a multipurpose solution.

A handy tip I often give customers is to pair two pantry cupboards side by side. By flipping one upside down (yes, it’s designed to do that!), you get a clean double-pantry look with doors that open from the centre—perfect for larger kitchens or homes with growing storage needs. You can explore our full range of affordable pantry cupboards here.

Can’t decide which type of pantry to choose? Don’t miss our pull-out pantry vs pantry cupboard comparison to see which is the best choice for your needs and budget.

TL;DR: Pantry cupboards are tall, flexible storage units ideal for any kitchen or laundry. Use them for food, cleaning, or linens—and pair two together for a seamless double-pantry setup.

Cabinet Construction: What to Look for in Quality Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to kitchen longevity, what’s behind the door matters just as much as the finish on the front. Cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen—they need to withstand daily wear, steam, spills, and repeated opening and closing. If you want cabinetry that lasts, it pays to understand what separates quality kitchen cabinets from cheaper alternatives.

Materials That Matter

At the core of any durable kitchen is the board material. Our cabinets are superior to Ikea and Kaboodle cabinets. They’re made using 18mm HMR (High Moisture Resistant) MDF, which resists swelling and warping far better than the thinner 15mm board commonly used in budget kitchens. This thickness also provides a sturdier base for fittings like hinges and soft-close drawers, which can loosen over time on flimsier materials.

Superior Finishes: 2-Pack Epoxy vs Budget Laminate

Our doors are finished in high gloss 2-pack epoxy, a premium surface treatment applied over multiple coats. The process includes a hard-wearing undercoat, meticulous sanding, and two top coats—hand-polished to a mirror finish. Unlike basic foil wrap or vinyl, 2-pack epoxy delivers a glass-like surface that won’t peel, bubble, or discolour over time.

Inside and out, our cabinet carcasses feature gloss PET laminate, not standard melamine. PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is a more durable, environmentally stable surface that’s easier to clean, resists fading, and adds a higher-end feel throughout the interior—not just the door face.

Why Gloss White Still Wins

While matte laminates and textured and coloured finishes have their place, gloss white kitchen cabinets remain the most popular for good reason: they reflect light, make small kitchens feel larger, and complement both modern and traditional design styles. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to wipe down—ideal for busy households or rental properties.

TL;DR: Choose HMR board and high gloss 2-pack kitchen cabinets for superior moisture resistance, durability, and a premium finish. Our cabinets combine PET-laminated interiors with tough, polished epoxy doors—because long-term quality starts with what’s behind the scenes.

Handle Styles & Finishes: Small Details That Make a Big Difference

Kitchen handles might be the last thing you choose in a kitchen renovation, but they’re the first thing you touch—every single day. The right kitchen cabinet handles elevate your overall design, tie your cabinetry to appliances and tapware, and influence how your kitchen feels to use.

Ross’s Kitchen Cabinet Handle Styles

We offer three carefully selected handle designs to suit a wide range of kitchen styles:

Premium Finishes for Any Style

Each handle style is available in a curated range of modern finishes designed to match today’s most popular tapware and fixtures:

• Matte Black – Bold and dramatic, black handles work beautifully with stone benchtops and black appliances.
• Chrome – Timeless and versatile, perfect for bright, clean kitchen palettes.
• Gunmetal – A contemporary favourite that adds depth and contrast without going full black.
• Brushed Gold – Luxe and on-trend, often paired with warm tones or natural textures.
• Brushed Nickel – Soft, elegant, and highly adaptable—pairs well with most cabinetry colours.

Sizing and Placement Tips

Our handles come in two standard lengths:

• 128mm – Ideal for drawers, small doors, or vertically mounted handles on tall units.
• 256mm – Suited to wide drawers or larger cabinetry for a balanced, proportional look.

Pro tip: Match your handle finish to your tapware, mixer, or appliances for a cohesive aesthetic that feels pulled together without being overdesigned.

If you would like more advice, check out our kitchen cabinet handle buying guide.

TL;DR: From minimalist to timeless, our handle styles and finish options are designed to suit every kitchen look. Choose from matte black, chrome, brushed gold and more to coordinate with your tapware—because when it comes to cabinet hardware, the small details really do make the biggest difference.

Kitchen Layout & Configuration: Making the Most of Your Space

Getting the layout right is just as important as choosing quality cabinets. We’ve seen plenty of kitchen renovations go sideways because not enough thought was given to how the space would actually function. Poor cabinet placement, wasted corners, and cluttered benchtops are all signs of a layout that doesn’t support daily use.

Common Layout Styles That Work

Whether you’re renovating a compact unit or building your dream kitchen, these tried-and-true layouts offer practical foundations:

• Galley Kitchen: Best for small spaces; keep everything within reach along two parallel runs.
• L-Shape: Great for open-plan zones and maximises corner space.
• U-Shape: Ideal for larger rooms and offers more surface area.
• Island Layout: Adds prep space, extra storage, and an ideal social/serving area.

Tips for Smarter Cabinet Configuration

• Use drawers instead of deep shelves under benches—drawers make pots, pans, and pantry items much easier to access.
• Install corner cabinets to eliminate dead zones and store bulky appliances or lesser-used items.
• Keep bin units near prep areas so waste disposal is quick, easy, and mess-free during food prep.

Modular Design = Flexible Fit

Our kitchen cabinets are built using a modular design approach—allowing near-custom flexibility without the price tag of fully bespoke. Cabinet widths and heights are available in multiple sizes, giving you more options to match your space precisely while keeping everything aligned and efficient.

To make planning easier, try our free 3D kitchen planner and visualise how different layouts and configurations will work in your home.

TL;DR: Smart kitchen layout planning helps you avoid common mistakes and create a space that truly works. From galley kitchens to islands, REGAL’s modular cabinet system and expert advice make organising your kitchen cabinets simple, efficient, and beautifully tailored.

Door Styles: Gloss Flat Panels vs Shaker Profiles

When it comes to cabinet doors, most Perth buyers narrow their choice down to two main styles: flat panel or shaker. Both have their place—but the choice affects more than just the look of your kitchen. It also influences cleaning, durability, and long-term design flexibility.

Gloss Flat Panel Doors: Sleek, Timeless, Easy to Clean

Flat panel doors—like the gloss white kitchen cabinetry we supply—are the definition of streamlined, modern design. They’re smooth, easy to wipe down, and free from crevices where grime can build up. This makes them ideal for busy households or anyone who prefers a low-maintenance finish that still looks high-end.

Gloss panels reflect light beautifully, making them a smart choice for smaller kitchens, darker spaces, or open-plan homes. Despite being minimal, they’re incredibly versatile—pair them with black handles for a contemporary look, or brushed gold tapware for something warmer and more luxe.

Shaker Doors: Character, But Higher Maintenance

Shaker doors, popular in Hamptons and country-style kitchens, feature a recessed central panel and frame-like edges. While they do add character and a sense of texture, they’re harder to clean. Dust and kitchen grime tend to settle in the detailing, especially in high-use areas like below the cooktop or near bin drawers.

And while shaker is are one of the hottest kitchen design trends, flat panels tend to outlast trends, suiting both modern kitchen design and more traditional settings depending on your kitchen cabinet colours and hardware choices.

TL;DR: If you’re after a clean, timeless kitchen that’s easy to live with and fits any style, gloss flat panels are the smarter pick. While shaker doors have charm, they’re less practical for everyday life—especially in a high-use space like the kitchen. Choose flat gloss if you’re thinking long-term.

DIY Kitchen Installation: Why Pre-Assembled Beats Flat Pack and Custom

We’ve heard it many times: homeowners start a flat pack or custom kitchen project thinking it’ll be a quick job—only to spend weeks managing trades, sorting panels, or chasing missing parts. Flat packs can be fiddly, while custom kitchens can take months from design to installation. That’s where pre-assembled kitchen cabinets change everything.

Flat Pack, Custom, and Pre-Assembled: What’s the Difference?

• Flat pack cabinets arrive as boxes of parts that need full assembly. They’re affordable upfront but cost time, tools, and plenty of patience—especially if instructions are unclear or parts are missing.
• Custom cabinets sit at the other end of the scale. They offer total design freedom but require long lead times, multiple trades, and a far higher budget.
• Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets bridge the gap. Each unit is professionally built in a factory, glued, dowelled, and squared for accuracy—ready to install the same day. You’ll save hours of labour and get a flawless finish that looks custom-made without the wait or the price tag.

For more detail, read our comparison guides below:

• Pre-Assembled vs Custom Kitchen Cabinet Comparison
• Pre-Assembled Kitchens vs. Flat Pack comparison
• Flat Pack vs. Custom Kitchen Cabinet Comparison

Smart Details That Make DIY Easy

Every Ross’s pre-assembled cabinet includes:

• Adjustable feet for fast, level setup—even on uneven floors
• Pre-drilled hinge holes for smooth door mounting
• Handle templates to drill with confidence and precision

With everything aligned and ready to go, installation is fast and frustration-free. You’ll get the ease of a flat pack with the finish of a custom kitchen—without either of their downsides.

Want to install it yourself? Follow our guide: How to Install DIY Kitchen Cabinets.

TL;DR: Flat packs need time and tools, custom kitchens need big budgets and patience. Pre-assembled kitchen cabinets combine both worlds—premium quality, easy DIY setup, and professional results that last.

Designing Your Kitchen: Plan It Right with Our Free 3D Kitchen Planner

Every great kitchen starts with a solid plan—and at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we make that easier than ever. Whether you’re renovating a tight galley or building your dream island kitchen, our free in-store design service and online 3D planner help you map everything out before you commit.

Plan with Fiona or Matt—In Store and Free

Our experienced design consultants, Fiona and Matt, are available in-store to help you build a kitchen layout that’s tailored to your space and your budget. No guesswork. No $99 design fees (unlike some other places). Just honest, expert advice and a plan that actually works.

Try Our Online 3D Planner—Fast, Visual, and Easy

Prefer to start from home? Our free 3D kitchen planner lets you:

• Drag and drop cabinets using Ross’s real kitchen cabinets
• Experiment with layout using our modern flat panel cabinet range
• Adjust colours, benchtops, and hardware finishes to suit your style
• Preview it all in a 3D render so you can visualise your kitchen before you buy

Whether you’re leaning toward a soft, coastal look, a high-gloss modern finish, or something uniquely you, our tool helps you explore popular Australian kitchen design styles—all using the cabinet ranges we actually stock.

Accessories & Final Touches: What You Don’t Want to Forget

It’s easy to focus on doors, handles, and layout—but it’s the finishing touches that make your kitchen look complete. We often see customers overlook essential kitchen cabinet accessories, only to realise later they’re the key to achieving that polished, built-in look. If you want your kitchen to look like it was professionally installed, these small components make all the difference.

Essentials You’ll Need to Finish the Job Right

• Kickboards: These panels run along the base of your cabinets to hide legs and give your kitchen a seamless, grounded look. They also help with easy cleaning and pest prevention.
• End Panels: These are placed on exposed cabinet sides to match the rest of your kitchen and protect the cabinet edges from moisture and wear.
• Fillers: These narrow strips cover any small gaps between cabinets and walls, giving you a smooth, gap-free finish—especially important when walls aren’t perfectly square.
• Drilling Templates: Supplied with our cabinets to help you place handles accurately. No guesswork, no misalignment.

Why They Matter

Without these components, your kitchen might look rough around the edges—literally. You’ll likely end up with exposed melamine, visible gaps, or unlevel lines that make the whole fit-out feel incomplete. With the right cabinet finishings, your kitchen will look clean, cohesive, and fully resolved.

Warranty, Support & Why Ross’s is Perth’s Kitchen Destination

When you shop with Ross’s, you’re not just buying a cabinet—you’re getting peace of mind, expert support, and genuine local service that’s hard to find anywhere else. We’ve been Perth’s trusted kitchen supplier since 1973, and we’re proud to stand behind the quality of every cabinet we sell.

Here’s Why More Perth Renovators Choose Ross’s:

• 10-Year Warranty on All Q Cabinets: Your kitchen should last—and with a full decade of coverage, ours do. Every cabinet is manufactured by Alpine KB, an Australian company known for quality and durability.
• Flat-Rate $100 Metro Shipping (All Donated to Breast Cancer WA): Fast, affordable delivery across the Perth metro area—and 100% of the shipping fee goes to support a great local cause.
• WA Family-Owned Since 1973: As a WA family business, we’ve spent over 50 years helping Perth families build better kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. That local experience matters.
• Free In-Store Support with Real Product Experts: Whether you’re designing from scratch or planning a DIY install, our team gives you honest, practical advice—and we keep stock on hand, so you’re not waiting weeks to get started.

Built for WA Homes, Backed by WA Service

We don’t just sell kitchens—we support Perth renovators every step of the way. From expert design guidance to strong local warranties and same-day pickup options, Ross’s makes it easier to renovate with confidence.

Final Checklist & Buying Recap

Before you order your new kitchen, it pays to double-check the details. Here’s a practical, step-by-step kitchen renovation checklist to make sure you’ve covered every key decision—along with some helpful resources to guide you.

1. Measure Your Space Properly

Accurate measurements are essential for a successful fit. Take the time to measure wall lengths, ceiling height, appliance locations, and power points. If you’re unsure where to start, follow our step-by-step guide: How to Measure Your Kitchen.

2. Plan Your Layout Thoughtfully

A good layout is the backbone of any functional kitchen. Think about workflow, storage zones, and how your space is used daily. Need help figuring it out? Start with our guide to How to Arrange Kitchen Cabinets for Optimal Functionality.

3. Choose the Right Cabinet Types

Drawers, cupboards, pantry units—what combination suits your lifestyle and kitchen layout best? Choosing correctly will save you frustration down the track. For a detailed breakdown of your options, see How to Choose the Right Kitchen Cabinets.

4. Match Your Handle Style and Finish

Handles may be small, but they make a big impact. Match your handle finish to your tapware or appliances for a cohesive look. Read our Ultimate Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Handles for more advice

5. Visualise It with Our 3D Planner

Not sure how it will all come together? Use our free 3D Kitchen Planner to experiment with layouts, colours, and cabinet styles before you commit. It’s quick, easy, and based on real products we stock. Try it now: Plan Your Kitchen with Our 3D Kitchen Planner.

6. Visit Ross’s in Guildford or Order Online

See our cabinets in person, ask questions, and get advice from our team. Prefer to shop from home? You can place your full kitchen order online with fast metro delivery and pre-assembled convenience.

Bonus Tip: Planning a Full Renovation?

Read our 2025 Kitchen Renovation Guide for expert advice tailored to Perth homeowners. It covers timelines, budgeting, design tips and more—ideal if you’re renovating more than just the cabinets.

Conclusion: Plan Smarter, Build Better with Ross’s

Designing a kitchen isn’t just about cabinets—it’s about creating a space that works beautifully every day. From high-gloss doors and soft-close drawers to quality materials and easy DIY installation, Ross’s kitchens are built to last and made to impress.

With expert advice, pre-assembled cabinets, fast metro delivery, and a free 3D kitchen planner, we make the renovation process simple, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re renovating a compact kitchen or fitting out an entire home, we’re here to help you do it right.

Start planning today—visit our Guildford showroom or explore our full kitchen range online.