HOW TO SURVIVE A KITCHEN REMODEL
A kitchen remodel can be an exciting, creative undertaking that can add new functionality, fresh style, improved efficiency and real value to your home. With a few kitchen remodel tips and a little flexibility, you can bring your dream kitchen to life with as little disruption as possible.
When thinking about how to plan a kitchen remodel, keep in mind that the experience can be both physical and mental. Create a respite away from the center of activity to decompress and recharge. Keep healthy snacks on hand to stay energized. But to really help ensure a smooth renovation process, following the three “P’s”—PLAN, PACK, PREPARE—is the best kitchen remodel advice there is.
PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL PROJECT
Planning ahead can help ease the stress and decision fatigue that may accompany a kitchen remodel. Mapping out temporary workspaces for daily routines, finalizing appliance choices and ensuring their fit in your new space, minimizing mess, and deciding where to stay can all help create a smoother experience. Communicate clearly with any contractors to solidify expectations and make a backup plan for unexpected surprises.
Learn how to prepare for a kitchen remodel with the 11 tips below.
1. DECIDE WHETHER TO STAY OR TEMPORARILY RELOCATE
Deciding whether to stay home during a kitchen remodel can depend on your project’s scope, budget, timeline and living space. Relocating can help reduce disruptions and speed up progress—especially during significant demolition—but staying put may work for you if there’s a clear plan for cooking, eating and cleaning outside the kitchen.
2. PLAN FOR COOKING AND EATING DURING THE KITCHEN RENOVATION
Depending on the size of your renovation, you may be without your kitchen for an extended period of time. Planning how you’ll cook and eat your meals is an important part of ensuring a smooth remodeling experience. Eating out can be part of the solution but when you’re talking about three meals a day for weeks at a time, this can get old, and expensive, quickly. With a little creativity and these simple tips, you can make homemade meals throughout your renovation.
In addition to an outdoor grill, small appliances like countertop ovens can become a kitchen remodeler’s best friend. There are a variety of countertop appliances, like these options from KitchenAid brand, that can be a big help during a remodel. Here are six types of countertop appliances from KitchenAid brand to consider:
KitchenAid® countertop ovens: Use for everyday cooking from toasting and baking to specialty techniques like air frying and dehydration (modes available on select models).
KitchenAid® blenders: Whip up delicious smoothies for breakfast on-the-go, or a quick pick-me-up in blenders that come in a range of sizes and colors.
KitchenAid® coffee makers: Choose from among espresso, cold brew, or traditional drip coffee makers and more in the KitchenAid® coffee collection.
KitchenAid® cordless appliances: Making in a small or makeshift space just got easier with a cordless food chopper, hand mixer and hand blender that give you the flexibility to create wherever, whatever, and however you choose.
KitchenAid® electric tea kettles: From variable temperature settings to precision pouring, there’s an electric kettle to help you get through your kitchen remodel by helping you create café-style beverages.
KitchenAid® countertop microwaves: Countertop microwaves from KitchenAid® brand offer flexible placement options alongside convenient features, like Sensor Functions on select models that automatically adjust the time needed to cook, reheat or defrost your food, removing the guesswork about power levels or cooking times.
3. COORDINATE YOUR TIMELINE & COMMUNICATE WITH CONTRACTORS
Remodels can disrupt daily life, but working closely with contractors to set a clear, detailed timeline can help keep plans on track and expectations aligned. Establish an individual line of communication before contractors start their work, then determine a routine day each week to check in on the status of the project.
4. SHOP FOR MAJOR APPLIANCES WELL BEFORE YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL
You’ll want to begin shopping early in the process because the appliances you choose can impact other aspects of the remodel. This includes layout, plumbing, electrical, countertop cutouts, cabinets, backsplash and more. It’s important to determine from the outset if you want freestanding or built-in appliances—electrical or gas—and what kind of venting you prefer.
KitchenAid brand has the kitchen appliances you need to cultivate a space for your creativity. Explore buying guides by KitchenAid brand for refrigerators, dishwashers, range hoods, microwaves, cooktops and wall ovens to start building your dream kitchen.
5. CAREFULLY PACK YOUR KITCHEN
Taking time to pack up your space thoughtfully, before the onset of your project, can help make unpacking go more smoothly. Identify key supplies and tools you’ll use frequently during the process and pack everything else away.
Label your boxes clearly and group like-items together for easy access and seamless unpacking.
Purge before you pack—this is the perfect time to check expiration dates and discard out-of-date food items.
Donate unused small appliances or cabinetry, countertops and large appliances that are still in good shape.
6. SET UP A TEMPORARY KITCHEN
Designate a spot, away from the area that’s being remodeled, that can serve as your stand-in kitchen. Consider where you’ll store dishes, prepare meals, eat and clean up after mealtime.
- Consider a countertop microwave that can add flexibility to your cooking routines while your space is under construction. You may even look for a model with additional cooking features—like this KitchenAid® countertop microwave with Air Fry—so you can keep variety on the menu while using fewer appliances.
A large table is helpful to hold small appliances, and serve as a small prep area.
Pack everything in well-labeled boxes, but keep a few essentials handy, including oven mitts, mixing bowls, cutting board/knives, measuring spoons/cups and basic spices/seasonings.
Designate a temporary new home for the refrigerator that’s easily accessible. If you won’t have a refrigerator during your project, an undercounter refrigerator like these options from KitchenAid brand can help keep beverages and select food items cool. A cooler can also hold a few essentials.
Before you lose access to your kitchen—if you have access to a fridge—fill the freezer with preprepped meals you can warm up in a microwave or countertop oven.
You’ll need to plan where you’re going to eat. Dining rooms are always great options. Setting up trays in a family room is another possibility. If the weather’s nice, the patio or deck may come in very handy (so will the grill), or throw a blanket on the grass and have a picnic in the backyard.
Washing and drying dishes in the kitchen may be off the table, but you can set up a temporary sink during a kitchen remodel in a bathroom, basement or garage sink for a temporary solution (just remember to scrape food from dishes thoroughly before rinsing). Look for a space that may have additional room for a drying rack, or for added convenience, consider a portable dishwasher that hooks up to a standard sink and tucks away when not in use.
7. KEEP YOUR SPACE NEAT AND TIDY
Keeping your temporary kitchen and eating areas clean and organized can go a long way in minimizing the stress and disruption that come along with the remodeling experience. Make sure you have a few key cleaning supplies at your fingertips, along with the following:
Stock up on paper towels, dish soap, towels and trash bags, as well as disposable plates, cups and utensils.
If you’re washing pots and pans in the bathroom or a laundry/utility sink, consider adding a drying rack nearby.
Find a spot for trash/recycling and be prepared to empty the trash more frequently.
8. MINIMIZE DUST, MESS AND CONSTRUCTION CHAOS
Construction gets messy, so it’s important to clarify with potential contractors early on who will handle cleanup and when it will happen. To help minimize dust and debris, consider covering vents and doorways with plastic, if possible, clearing out furniture, decor and curtains, and opening windows or exterior doors for ventilation. Protect floors with cardboard or drop cloths, and limit entry and exit points to help keep the mess contained.
PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED
Kitchen renovations can be a source of frustration and stress, and preparing for unexpected bumps in the road can help to make the process much easier. Your old kitchen is purged and carefully packed, your temporary kitchen is set up and ready to go, and your new kitchen is underway. You’ve planned for everything, except for the one thing that’s hard to plan for—the unexpected.
9. STAY FLEXIBLE
Renovations may not go exactly as planned, whether it’s a timeline delay or an unexpected hit to the budget. Building in wiggle room and having a backup plan can help ease stress and help you tackle roadblocks with confidence. Here are a few ways to help soften the blow of unexpected surprises.
Include extra money in your “dining out” budget to accommodate extra meals that might be necessary if you experience project delays.
If you have pets, make sure there’s a plan for them, too. Factor day care or boarding expenses into your budget for heavy construction days to help keep pets safe and happy.
If possible, coordinate a trip away from home into your schedule to give everyone a break from the activity.
Always have a Plan B. Your remodel may not go as planned, so it’s never a bad idea to have your second favorite options waiting in the wings.
10. GET READY FOR YOUR APPLIANCES
There’s nothing more frustrating than finding the refrigerator of your dreams and then realizing on delivery day that it won’t fit through your front door. That’s why it’s essential to understand sizes and dimensions before you buy. Consult sizing guides to learn how to measure for your new appliances and then double-check your appliance measurements with your contractor when the time comes. Familiarize yourself with the specifications and dimensions of your appliances.
Here are some additional things you’ll want to keep in mind:
Inspect your space for proper outlets, plumbing and water lines.
Map out a path of entry: Measure the width of each doorway, hallway and stairwell that the appliance will pass through. Make sure the space is clear of personal items on delivery day.
Make sure you have the right parts if you’re installing an appliance yourself. KitchenAid brand offers quality parts and accessories to complement your purchase experience. Be on hand for delivery and to inspect your new appliances.
Be on hand for delivery and to inspect your new appliances.
If you’re preparing to uninstall an appliance yourself, but have a third party haul it away, make sure your appliance is empty and unconnected to power before your new appliance is delivered.
There may be a few bumps along the way, but with a little patience, a sense of humor and arming yourself with the three “P’s”—and all the appliance support you need from KitchenAid brand—you’ll be creating in the kitchen of your dreams before you know it.
11. ENJOY YOUR NEW KITCHEN
Once everything’s in place—from cabinets and countertops to appliances and lighting—it’s time to celebrate the transformation. Your kitchen isn’t just a functional space anymore; it’s a place to connect, create and unwind:
Host a launch meal. Whether it’s a simple breakfast, family dinner or casual cocktail evening—gather loved ones and christen the space with your favorite dish. A shared moment makes the remodel feel personal and meaningful.
Find the right home for your essentials. Take time to decide where small appliances, utensils and everyday items belong. Keep what you use most within easy reach, and experiment with placement until the flow feels natural and intuitive.
Personalize the finishing touches. Hang art or photos, arrange fresh herbs or flowers, light candles, display cookbooks. These cozy touches complete the space and reflect your style.
Reflect (and rest). Pause for a moment to admire your work. Renovating can be exhausting, but rewarding. Enjoy a quiet cup of tea or glass of wine in your upgraded kitchen and bask in the satisfaction of all you’ve achieved.
SHOP FOR NEW APPLIANCES FROM KITCHENAID BRAND
Curate a culinary oasis with the help of major appliances from KitchenAid brand. From wall ovens and cooktops to dishwashers and microwaves, KitchenAid brand offers stylish and reliable solutions that let you explore your creativity.
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