A kitchen renovation is an exciting step toward a more beautiful and functional space—but let’s be honest, it also means weeks without a working kitchen. With a little preparation, though, your renovation can be much more manageable.

Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get ready for the process—starting with the most important: setting up a temporary kitchen.

1. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen Space

One of the first and most helpful things you can do is create a makeshift kitchen somewhere else in your home. It doesn't need to be fancy—just functional.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• - A table or folding surface for prepping food.

• - Small appliances like a microwave, toaster oven, slow cooker, or electric skillet.

• - Mini fridge or cooler (if your main refrigerator is disconnected).

• - Dishwashing setup—use a utility sink, bathroom sink, or even disposable dishware.

• - Basic utensils: a knife, cutting board, a pot or two, a skillet, a spatula, and your go-to mug or water bottle.

• - Storage bins for dry goods, spices, and snacks to keep things organized.

If possible, set up your temporary kitchen near a water source and an outlet. A garage, laundry room, or dining room can all work in a pinch.

2. Make the Grill Your Best Friend

If the weather cooperates, your grill can be a lifesaver during a renovation. It becomes your outdoor kitchen—no stove or oven needed.

Simple grill-friendly meal ideas:

• - Burgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts, or skewers

• - Foil packet meals (like salmon and veggies)

• - Grilled pizzas or flatbreads

• - Veggie kabobs and corn on the cob

Keep paper plates and grilling tools handy, and stock up on foil, which makes cleanup even easier. You might even start to enjoy this temporary outdoor lifestyle.

3. Plan Easy, No-Fuss Meals

During the renovation, you’ll want to avoid complicated meals. This is your excuse to simplify:

• - Think sheet pan dinners, one-pot meals, or meal kits that require minimal prep.

• - Keep a list of local takeout or ready-made meal options for the busiest days.

• - Cook and freeze meals in advance so you can reheat without much effort.

4. Declutter & Pack Your Kitchen Carefully

Renovation day will come fast, and packing your kitchen can feel overwhelming if you wait too long.

• - Purge what you don’t use—no sense packing chipped mugs or appliances you forgot you had.

• - Use clear plastic bins or labeled boxes for packing. Group similar items together—baking supplies, pantry items, utensils, etc.

• - Pack a “daily use” bin with essential items you’ll want in your temporary kitchen.

Bonus tip: Keep a notepad handy while packing—you’ll be amazed how helpful it is to track what went where.

5. Protect the Rest of Your Home

A renovation can affect more than just the kitchen. Consider these steps to minimize the mess and stress:

• - Use plastic sheeting or zip walls to keep dust out of adjacent rooms.

• - Lay floor protection down if contractors will be walking through other areas.

• - Talk with your contractor about how debris will be handled and where materials will be stored.

6. Communicate With Your Team

Your kitchen designer and your contractor are your partners in this process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share concerns, or double check the schedule.

Make sure you understand:

• - When demo begins

• - How long your water or power might be off

• - Who to contact if anything unexpected happens

Open communication can reduce surprises—and stress.

7. Keep Your Eye on the Finish Line

Yes, it’s inconvenient. Yes, it might feel chaotic. But this is temporary—and the beautiful, functional kitchen at the end is worth it.

I guide my clients through the design process from start to finish, and I'm here to help you feel prepared, confident, and excited about what’s ahead. Need help planning your kitchen renovation? I’d love to talk.