Brownlow Building · Renovation Planning Guide · October 2026
Planning an Open-Plan Home Renovation in South-East Melbourne
Opening up a family home can improve light, movement and connection between the kitchen and living spaces. The key is to design the whole room around the existing building, not simply remove a wall and hope the finishes line up.
This guide is general renovation planning information, not an assessment of any particular property. For a project in South-East Melbourne, Brownlow can discuss your goals, budget and next steps before detailed preconstruction investigations.
First determine what the wall supports
An internal wall may support roof or floor loads, or provide bracing. A structural engineer may need to design beams, posts and supports, with appropriate building permits where required. Do not treat a wall as non-structural without assessment.
Look beyond the new kitchen
A new island or dining area changes circulation, lighting and furniture placement. Consider clearances, storage, sightlines, ventilation and access to outdoor spaces before locking in the cabinetry design.
Allow for floors and ceilings
Removed walls often expose mismatched flooring, ceilings, bulkheads or different floor levels. Matching existing finishes may not be possible. These adjoining works should be included in the scope, not left as an unexpected variation.
Check plumbing and electrical services
Moving a sink or cooktop, adding power points or changing heating and cooling can affect services outside the visible renovation area. Coordinating the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms can make the work more efficient.
Set the right preconstruction sequence
An initial discussion identifies goals and budget. Detailed site information, design, engineering and selections are then developed through preconstruction before the final scope and construction price are agreed.
Common questions
Can we open up the kitchen without an extension?
Often yes, if the existing footprint can support the new layout. Structural and service constraints still need assessment.
Will removing a wall affect the renovation budget?
It can. Engineering, supports, floor and ceiling repairs and service relocations may be involved. Costs depend on the actual structure and scope.
Can we live in the house during the work?
Sometimes, but dust, access, temporary services and safety must be planned. The answer depends on the extent of structural work and available separation from occupied areas.
Plan your South-East Melbourne renovation
See our regional renovation service page for how Brownlow approaches design, selections, preconstruction and building.
Home renovations in South-East Melbourne →More renovation planning resources
Discuss your renovation project
Tell us the property suburb, areas you want to change, approximate budget and timeframe. We'll arrange an initial project conversation.