Temporary Kitchen Setup: Living Comfortably During Your Remodel

Transform Your Remodel Experience: The Ultimate Guide to Living Comfortably During Your Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen remodel is one of the most exciting home improvement projects you can undertake, but it can also be one of the most challenging to live through. When undertaking a kitchen remodel, setting up a temporary kitchen becomes crucial for maintaining some sense of normalcy. The good news is that with proper planning and the right temporary setup, you can maintain your daily routines and even discover new ways to cook and live during the renovation process.

Planning Your Temporary Kitchen Space

First, you need to figure out where your temporary kitchen will be. Your regular, essential kitchen appliances will likely be unplugged and moved elsewhere and the entire space will be out of commission. In the summer, you might be able to use your patio. But otherwise, the space could be the dining room, utility room, or sunroom. Go with what makes the most sense for your household.

The two most important things you’ll need when deciding where to set up your temporary kitchen during a remodel are plumbing to wash dishes and an electrical outlet to plug in appliances. The laundry room or basement are often good options. Another is to take a corner of your living room or home office to make and store food, and use the sink or bathtub in the bathroom to wash your dishes.

Essential Appliances for Your Temporary Setup

With limited space, we recommend cooking with various small appliances in your temporary kitchen. This might include a toaster oven, a microwave, an electric kettle, a rice cooker, or a hot plate. 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.

Consider these versatile appliances for maximum functionality:

  • Toaster oven or air fryer for baking and reheating
  • Electric hot plate or induction burner for stovetop cooking
  • Slow cooker or Instant Pot for one-pot meals
  • Electric kettle for hot water needs
  • Microwave for quick heating and defrosting
  • Coffee maker to maintain your morning routine

Storage and Organization Solutions

Make space for your temporary cooking space and store all of your appliances, extra dishware, and supplies in the garage, a guest bedroom, or anywhere in your home with additional space. Only keep out what you’ll need for everyday meals, including utensils, cutting boards, and basic pots and pans.

With a folding table, outlet for power, and a few storage solutions, you can have a functioning kitchen. Here is what I recommend: 4ft Folding Table – like this one. This table has become the heart of our temporary kitchen setup. It holds my appliances and gives me a little room for prep space.

Smart storage ideas include:

  • Rolling carts for easy mobility and storage
  • Plastic shelving units for pantry items
  • Storage bins for dry goods and supplies
  • Portable coolers if refrigerator access is limited

Handling Refrigeration and Food Storage

Small appliances will help you get by without a proper stove and oven, but you can only go so long without a refrigerator. With this in mind, consider moving your existing fridge to the temporary cooking area or potentially your garage if there is room. Otherwise, think about getting a mini or mid-size fridge for the interim.

Another important factor is knowing whether or not you’ll have access to your fridge and freezer. Consider moving your fridge to the garage or another room so you can continue to use it during the remodel. Being able to store cold things and freeze meals will make it easier to plan ahead, stick to your normal routine and save money on takeout.

Dishwashing and Cleanup Solutions

One of the biggest challenges during a kitchen remodel is managing dishwashing. Of course, you’ll need a temporary kitchen sink in the absence of a dishwasher. You can use the sink or bathtub in your bathroom or even a basin with running water in your laundry room or basement. Then set up a drying rack or mat on a nearby surface.

Everything gets more difficult when you’re remodeling so make it simple when you can! Use paper plates, bowls, cups and napkins any time you can. For those concerned about environmental impact, consider compostable or biodegradable disposable options.

Meal Planning and Preparation Tips

Take stock of the appliances and basic supplies you’ve set aside for your temporary kitchen and plan out the meals you’ll make. It’s an important step that makes using your makeshift kitchen much easier. Focus on simple, one-pot meals and recipes that require minimal prep and cleanup.

Meal ideas perfect for temporary kitchens include:

  • Slow cooker stews and soups
  • Sheet pan meals in the toaster oven
  • Instant Pot rice and grain bowls
  • Grilled proteins and vegetables
  • Pre-made freezer meals for quick reheating

Working with Professional Contractors

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel kennewick wa, working with experienced professionals can make the temporary kitchen phase much more manageable. At Nailed It Construction, we believe quality craftsmanship and honest service are the foundation of every great project. We proudly serve the entire Franklin & Benton County, WA, bringing years of experience, precision, and creativity to every build. Whether you’re upgrading your home, tackling a commercial project, or need expert repairs, we’ve got you covered.

At Nailed It Construction TC, we are committed to delivering exceptional construction services that go beyond expectations. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we take pride in our reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to our clients. Our team of skilled professionals approach every project with a passion for excellence, ensuring that each build is completed on time and within budget with superior workmanship.

Maintaining Your Sanity During the Process

Designate one room as your sanity-saving space and be very clear with the contractor that it is off-limits for cutting through and for storing tools, supplies and the things that have come out of the kitchen. This retreat space becomes essential for maintaining your mental health during the renovation chaos.

A brand new kitchen WILL be worth it, but you still have to live with the people in your home once you’re done! Show grace and treat this as an adventure. Attitude really is everything!

Budget Considerations

For some families one of the biggest expenses during a kitchen remodel can be eating out. With two teenagers this was not an option for us. We only had $5 footlong subs one night and pizza on another occasion. THAT’S IT. Planning your temporary kitchen setup can significantly reduce these additional costs while maintaining your family’s nutrition and routine.

Making the Most of Your Temporary Setup

While setting up a temporary kitchen takes effort, there are some benefits to downsizing your cooking space including: Learning versatility using compact appliances like pressure cookers · Discovering you have more than you need with pared-down tools and dishes · Preventing food waste with a smaller fridge that needs regular clearing out · Encouraging simpler, healthier meals with only essential equipment on hand · Appreciating the conveniences of your regular kitchen when the reno is complete · A makeshift kitchen requires some adjustments but can function surprisingly well. Think through your basic needs and get creative problem-solving to bridge the renovation period.

Remember, this temporary phase is just that—temporary. Before you know it, the gorgeous new kitchen of your dreams will be installed and fully functional. View it as a chance to hone your meal planning and adopt helpful habits that serve your household long-term. Soon your patience will pay off with a revamped kitchen tailored perfectly for your needs.

With proper planning, the right equipment, and a positive attitude, living through a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to be a survival challenge—it can be an adventure that brings your family closer together and teaches you new skills along the way. The inconvenience is temporary, but your beautiful new kitchen will be enjoyed for years to come.