Why Some Trends Ignore Design Standards—And Why You Shouldn’t.

In the age of Instagram kitchens and glossy renovation reels, it’s easy to fall for a look that puts style above substance. But here’s the truth: a beautiful kitchen that doesn’t follow proper design standards isn’t just inconvenient—it can be unsafe, non-compliant, or even void your insurance.

In Western Australia, our kitchen designs need to meet specific safety, accessibility, and performance standards. These aren’t arbitrary rules; they’re there to protect your family and make sure your kitchen works long after the trend fades.

Here’s what those standards actually mean—and why ignoring them isn’t worth it.

Mundaring Kitchen Design by Bronika Carter, 2021

Gas Cooking and Ventilation

(AS/NZS 5601.1 and NCC/BCA)

Gas cooktops are common, but they come with strict safety rules. These are often overlooked in influencer kitchens, but they matter.

Minimum clearances for gas cooktops:

• Side clearance: 200mm from the edge of the burner to any combustible wall or surface (unless shielded with an approved fire-resistant panel).

• Rear clearance: 150mm from the back of the burner to a combustible surface.

• Overhead clearance:

  • 600mm minimum to a rangehood

  • 750mm minimum to an overhead exhaust fan or cabinet

Ventilation:
Kitchens with gas cooktops must have compliant extraction, usually a ducted rangehood that vents to the outside (as per AS 1668.2). Recirculating fans don’t meet these standards on their own.

Yet it’s common to see timber feature walls or pendant lights far too close to burners in "inspiration" images. These may look good—but they’re not safe or legal.

Parkerville kitchen floor plan - Design by Bronika Carter, 2024

Clearances and Circulation

(KBDi, Livable Housing Design Guidelines, NCC Vol 2)

Clear space is crucial to safety and flow in the kitchen.

Key recommendations:

• At least 1000mm between benchtops for basic movement

• 1200–1500mm for more comfortable flow, especially for two cooks

• At least 1050mm clearance behind an oven or dishwasher when open

• Clear floor space of 1200mm x 850mm in front of major appliances

A tight galley kitchen might look great online, but if it’s too narrow to open the oven or let two people pass, it quickly becomes frustrating—and in some cases, non-compliant.

Mundaring Kitchen Design by Bronika Carter. 2021

Bench Heights and Ergonomics

(AS 1428.1, Livable Housing Design Guidelines)

The standard bench height is 900mm, but depending on user needs, anywhere from 850–950mm is acceptable.

Different work zones may suit different heights—for example, a lower area for baking prep, or a raised section for bar seating.

For ageing-in-place or accessible homes, avoid sharp corners and consider seated prep areas.

Design should always meet the needs of the people living in the home—not just mimic what’s trending.

Appliance Positioning

Ovens should be installed at a height that avoids bending—ideally with the base 600–750mm off the floor.

Microwaves work best when installed between 900–1200mm high, so you’re not lifting hot bowls overhead.

Dishwashers can be raised slightly to reduce strain, or placed next to drawers to make loading and unloading easier.

These adjustments might not appear in a styled shoot, but they make daily life much easier.

Concept Mood Board by Bronika Carter Design, 2021

Powerpoints and Switches

(AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules)

Powerpoints must be installed at safe distances from water and heat sources—at least 150mm horizontally from sinks or cooktops.

For accessibility, outlets and switches should be mounted between 600–1200mm above floor level.

Don’t put powerpoints inside cupboards without proper ventilation—especially if they’ll be used for appliances that heat up.

Mundaring Kitchen Design by Bronika Carter, 2021

Flooring, Lighting and Safety

Floors should be slip-resistant, especially in wet areas.

Lighting must be bright and even, with good visibility on prep areas—under-cabinet lighting can be a great addition.

Switches should be easy to operate and placed between 900–1100mm high, especially in homes designed for accessibility or ageing residents.

Minimise thresholds between rooms to prevent tripping and ensure smoother transitions for mobility aids.

Storage and Access

Store heavy items in drawers below bench height, not overhead cupboards.

Use corner systems like pull-outs or lazy Susans for better reach and usability.

Plan continuous bench space between the cooktop and sink—ideally 800–900mm—to reduce the need to carry hot or wet items across walkways.

Need help designing your kitchen?

Whether you’re planning a full renovation or tweaking your layout, working with a qualified interior designer means getting it right from the start. I’ll help you create a kitchen that looks beautiful, functions brilliantly—and ticks all the right boxes when it comes to safety and standards.

Based in the Perth Hills, I work with homeowners across WA.
Ready to chat? [Get in touch here] or book a consultation.