One project on every homeowner’s wishlist is a kitchen renovation.

The problem: surviving one.

From sometimes weeks without full access to your appliances and food prep space, to endless dust and noise, kitchen renovations are not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking to take your kitchen from dreary to dreamy, these five tips are sure to come in handy when you’re trudging through those kitchen reno trenches.

Tip #1: Create a temporary kitchen

 

Rather than packing away the pots, pans, and plates, create a makeshift kitchen in another part of the home (preferably away from where the action is taking place). Grab a friend to help you move the essentials, like your:

  • Coffee machine and kettle
  • Slow cooker
  • Microwave
  • Toaster/toaster oven
  • Electric frypan

If you have a refrigerator, consider moving it or invest in an inexpensive small fridge in the meantime. You can also use the portable cooking equipment you take camping, spend more time cooking on the BBQ, and invest in a hot plate or portable electric or gas burner.

 

Tip #2: Invest in recyclable or disposable bowls, plates, and cutlery

 

The less you have to wash, the better. Unless you’re fortunate enough to have a portable or benchtop dishwasher, you certainly don’t want to spend your time hauling dishes to your tiny bathroom sink or laundry tub for washing.

You can save a lot on your disposable tableware by purchasing them in bulk from a wholesaler. There are also a lot of eco-friendly choices available if you want to reduce your impact on the environment.

Alternatively, take up your friends and family offers of dinners at their place or your local restaurant.

 

Tip #3: Grab the plastic sheets and drop cloths

 

The amount of dust your kitchen renovation may create can drive even the most patient of people crazy. Protect special items and artwork with plastic wrap, towels, or paper, and keep your furniture and temporary kitchen area clean by covering spaces with plastic sheets and drop cloths when not in use.

 

Tip #4: Plan meals around your smaller appliances

 

Now isn’t the time to cook a turkey. Make the most out of your grill, your toaster oven, and your microwave. You can boil water for pasta or rice on your single or double hot plate.

Perhaps more importantly, start cooking prior to your kitchen renovation and freeze so meals are ready to reheat at a whim. Alternatively, start searching for discounts or 2 for 1 offers and find out where you can gather points for free meals at restaurants. Like it or not, there’s a good chance you’ll be eating out more to reduce the amount of extra work that comes with preparing meals during a kitchen renovation.

 

Tip #5: Choose someone you trust to renovate your kitchen

 

The easiest way to live through a kitchen renovation is to choose a design and remodel team with a proven track record of providing top notch customer service, of being courteous, and for staying on schedule.

Zesta Kitchens is Victoria’s oldest and most experienced kitchen renovation company who promises “On-time Kitchen Renovations”. Each of our custom-designed kitchens is installed by thoroughly vetted installers who have a proven track record for arriving on time and cleaning up after the work is done.

 

Interested in learning more? Visit one of our showrooms in Nunawading, Richmond, or Cheltenham, and arrange for your free in-home kitchen design today.