A top question I get is “how do we prepare for a kitchen remodel?” A kitchen remodel is by far one of the hardest remodels to live through, because if you think about it, the kitchen is where you spend a majority of your time when you are home. It is truly the heart of the home. When you work with RRI, and construction is about to commence, you actually receive a construction packet that goes over what to expect and how to prepare. I have rounded up our top 3 tips on how to survive a kitchen remodel!

Tip 1: Pack like you are moving and PURGE

Leave NOTHING behind. Pack it all in boxes. Seal it shut. And put it all away, far away. Dust gets EVERYWHERE and the last thing you will want to do is clean it all when putting it away. Trust me, when I say you will thank me for this later. This is also a great time to get rid of Aunt Bettys gravy boat she gave you 32 years ago. If you don’t use get rid of it. If you haven’t used it, get rid of it. If you won’t use it, get rid of it. Get the point?

Tip 2: Set up a makeshift kitchen

Find a place in your home that is far away from where the construction is happening. And set up shop there. Put all your pantry items you will need on a table. Set up a small microwave, air fryer, crock pot, coffee maker, and bar (again, you will thank me later). Grab a ton of paper plates and plastic silverware. The least amount of dishes you need to do a day the better. I will say, most of my clients like to drink coffee out of a mug, and wine out of a wine glass. They just know they will be doing those dishes in a bathtub at the end of the day. Plug in your refrigerator and buy a ton of bottled water. No, you will not be saving the planet the month of your remodel!

Tip 3: Accept the dust

Dust is a natural part of a remodel. And if you have good contractors on your project, they will clean up the job site every day, but the dust gets everywhere. Even with prep done right, and zipper walls, the dust finds a way; and when you accept that you are living in a construction zone for a bit, it will be a much better experience (for EVERYONE!) However, keeping up with the dust, and doing a light dusting and vacuum every few days in the areas you are living in will help keep it more manageable. And expect the dust to still continue to settle a few weeks after the remodel is finished. Swap out your air vents and get an air purifier if you are dust sensitive.

Bonus Tip:

Have all materials you need for the remodel ON SITE and ready for the contractors. Do not start demo until you know your appliances are in, your plumbing is ready to be picked up, and all design elements are selected. Living through a remodel on top of trying to make design decisions will only add stress to your plate. BE PREPARED BEFORE YOU START.

And just know this is only temporary and not forever. Go into it with a mindset of you will have a beautiful space when it’s done, you just have to be patient. Try and enjoy the process. It can really be a fun experience to watch your home transform into something you had been dreaming of for so long!