How To Survive A Kitchen Renovation

A new kitchen is one of the most exciting upgrades you can make to your home, but there’s a little stretch of time where you’ll be without a fully functioning kitchen. While we’ll do everything we can to keep the process smooth and efficient, it’s important to prepare for a short period of “kitchen camping.”

The good news? With a little planning, you can still eat well, stay sane, and even enjoy the novelty of it.

What Happens During a Kitchen Installation?

To help set expectations, here’s a typical sequence of events that takes place during a full kitchen renovation. It can take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the condition, trades availability, planning and material selection. 

• Removal of your existing kitchen

• Any necessary building work (touch-ups, plastering, etc.)

• Painting and preparation of walls

• Plumbing and electrical work

• Delivery and installation of cabinetry

• Benchtop templating (once cabinets are installed)

• Benchtop installation (typically 10-15 days after templating)

• Final electrical and plumbing reconnections

There are many moving parts, and while we’ll guide you through every step, having a temporary kitchen setup can make all the difference.

Your Temporary “Camp Kitchen” Checklist

Here are some essentials that will help you stay comfortable and functional during the renovation:

1. Water Access

You’ll need access to running water—either in the laundry, bathroom, or even a garden tap. It’s helpful to set up a dishwashing station with a plastic tub and drying rack near that water source.

2. Cooking Appliances

Borrow or gather a few small, versatile appliances to get you through:

• Microwave – great for reheating pre-prepared or frozen meals.

• Air fryer – surprisingly handy for quick meals without much mess.

• Camp stove or portable grill – perfect for easy dinners outside (weather permitting).

• Kettle & toaster – for the basics.

Tip: Ask friends or family if they have extras you can borrow during this time. Most people are happy to help.

3. Meal Planning

Think easy, minimal-prep meals:

• Stock up on frozen or pre-cooked meals that only need reheating.

• Keep fresh produce, snacks, and pantry staples handy.

4. Create a Prep Zone

Set up a fold-out table or clear a bench in another room as your prep area. Include:

• A chopping board and basic utensils

• A small bin and paper towels

• Dish soap, sponge, and tea towels

5. Embrace the Change

It won’t be forever, and many clients tell us the temporary setup becomes a bit of a fun challenge. Takeaway meals, Uber Eats, BBQ nights, and friends offering to host a dinner here and there can help break things up.

Final Thoughts

Avoid making changes during the install process. Changes this late in the game will have an impact on the install time. Kitchen installations are detailed and carefully coordinated to ensure a high-quality result that lasts for years. Many trades are involved and need to work in a sequence. These things take what they take and can’t be sped up. Preparing a temporary kitchen gives you flexibility and comfort while the real transformation takes place behind the scenes.