Undergoing a kitchen remodel is an exciting time, promising a new kitchen that can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, the process can also be challenging, especially when living without a fully functional kitchen. At MTK Contracting, we understand the difficulties of not having your complete kitchen during kitchen renovations. We have compiled a list of 9 practical tips to help you navigate this temporary inconvenience smoothly.
In this article, we will cover:
- Set Up a Temporary Kitchen Space
- Plan and Prep Your Meals
- Utilize Small Appliances
- Make Use of Outdoor Cooking
- Simplify Dishwashing
- Stay Organized
- Maintain a Positive Attitude
- Communicate with Your Contractor
- Take Advantage of Local Amenities
1. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen Space
When it comes to surviving a kitchen remodel, the first step is to create a temporary kitchen. Choose a place that is out of the way of construction but still accessible. This might be the dining room, living room, basement, garage, or spare room. This temporary kitchen does not need all the bells and whistles of a traditional kitchen. It is important to equip this space with essential appliances from your kitchen, such as a microwave, toaster oven, coffee maker, mini fridge, instant pot, or hot pot. Utilizing appliances and utensils you own that can easily be relocated would help you and your family make snacks and meals. If a workspace is needed, use folding tables or old countertops.
Pro Tip: Place your temporary kitchen near a sink for easy access when you need water for cooking and cleaning.
2. Plan and Prep Your Meals
Plan your meals to save time and unnecessary stress. Consider batch cooking and freezing meals or preparing ingredients before the remodel begins. Then, you can either reheat your homemade dishes or cook faster with prepared ingredients. This way, you don’t have to rely on costly takeout meals. Also, try easy-to-prepare meals like salads, sandwiches, one-pot dishes, or crockpot meals to save on dishes and time.
3. Utilize Small Appliances
While you remodel your kitchen, small appliances will be your best friend. Appliances such as toaster ovens, electric grills, slow cookers, and instant pots can help you prepare various meals without needing a full kitchen. If you do not own any of these appliances, try asking local friends, family, or neighbors in neighborhood Facebook groups, such as the buy-nothing groups, to see if anyone could loan you these small appliances while you remodel your kitchen.
4. Make Use of Outdoor Cooking
If weather permits or you live in an apartment with the dedicated space or amenities, consider using an outdoor grill to prepare meals. Grills can be a fun and efficient way to cook, reducing the need to rely solely on your temporary indoor kitchen. As a bonus, it’s a great opportunity to get some fresh air and change scenery while your kitchen is renovated.
5. Simplify Dishwashing
Dishwashing can be a challenge without a full-size sink like you would have in a kitchen. Using disposable or compostable plates, cups, and utensils can minimize the need for washing. A more eco-friendly alternative is to set up a dishwashing station outdoors or in a bathroom or laundry room sink. There are several ways to set up a dishwashing station, but our preferred method is a 3-tub system. Fill two tubs with hot water and one with cold water. In the first tub, add some dish soap, leave the second tub with just hot water, and in the third tub with cold water, add a cap full of bleach. Going from tub one to tub three, you will wash your dishes in the first tub with soap, use tub two as a rinse tub to get the soap and everything else off, then use tub three as the final sanitization step and dunk the dish in the cold slightly bleached water. Then, towel dry or use a drying rack to dry your dishes.
6. Stay Organized
Keep your temporary kitchen space organized to help you maintain some sense of normalcy and calmness during the chaos of a kitchen renovation. Your items will not be in their typical pantries and cabinets, so utilizing clear plastic storage bins to store utensils, cookware, and pantry items can help you stay organized during your kitchen renovation. Keep essential items on hand and pack away the rest to maximize your temporary space.
7. Maintain a Positive Attitude
Stay positive! A positive mindset can make a huge difference during a kitchen renovation. In moments of stress and frustration, take a deep breath and remember that this inconvenience is temporary and will be worth it once your new kitchen is complete. Celebrate the small milestones and progress by keeping track of the renovation progress.
8. Communicate with Your Contractor
Maintain frequent communications with your kitchen renovation contractor. This can help you stay informed about the completion timeline and any potential disruptions. At MTK Contracting, we prioritize clear and consistent communication with our clients, ensuring you are always in the loop.
9. Take Advantage of Local Amenities
During the kitchen renovation, consider exploring local dining options. This can be a great excuse to try new restaurants and enjoy some of the culinary delights that NYC and New Jersey have to offer. Look for takeout deals and discounts to keep dining out affordable. Try using apps like Too Good To Go, which help local businesses reduce food waste by selling discounted goods from their own businesses.
Renovate Your New York City Kitchen With MTK Contracting
Surviving without a kitchen during a remodel may seem daunting, but with careful planning and a few strategic adjustments, you can easily navigate this time. Remember, the temporary inconvenience will soon give way to a beautiful, functional new kitchen that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
At MTK Contracting, we specialize in high-end kitchen renovations and are committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in NYC or New Jersey, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us bring your dream kitchen to life.
