HOW TO SURVIVE A KITCHEN REMODEL

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting, creative undertaking that can add new functionality, fresh style, improved efficiency and real value to your home. With a few kitchen remodel tips and a little flexibility you can bring your dream kitchen to life with as little disruption as possible.

When thinking about how to plan a kitchen remodel, keep in mind that the experience can be both physical and mental. Create a respite away from the center of activity to decompress and recharge. Keep healthy snacks on hand to stay energized. But to really help ensure a smooth renovation process, following the three “P’s” – PLAN, PACK, PREPARE – is the best kitchen remodel advice there is.

PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL PROJECT

Think ahead. Decide which appliances need to be replaced and understand the sizes and dimensions you’ll have available for new appliances in your remodeled space before you begin shopping. 

Create a makeshift cooking and eating space with small appliances, disposable utensils and make-ahead meals.

SHOP FOR MAJOR APPLIANCES WELL BEFORE YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL

You’ll want to begin shopping early in the process because the appliances you choose can impact almost every other aspect of the remodel. This includes layout, plumbing, electrical, countertop cut outs, cabinets, backsplash and more. It’s important to determine from the outset if you want freestanding or built-in appliances – electrical or gas – and what kind of venting you prefer.

KitchenAid brand has the kitchen appliances you need to cultivate a space for your creativity. Explore buying guides for refrigerators, dishwashers, range hoods, microwaves, cooktops and wall ovens to start building your dream kitchen.

PLAN FOR COOKING AND EATING DURING THE KITCHEN RENOVATION

Depending on the size of your renovation, you may be without your kitchen for an extended period of time. Planning how you’ll cook and eat your meals is an important part of ensuring a smooth remodeling experience. Eating out can be part of the solution but when you’re talking about three meals a day for weeks at a time, this can get old, and expensive, quickly. With a little creativity and these simple tips, you can make homemade meals throughout your renovation.

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. Here are five countertop appliances from KitchenAid brand to consider: 

• COUNTERTOP OVEN: Use for everyday cooking from toasting and baking to specialty techniques like air frying and dehydration.

• BLENDER: Whip up delicious smoothies for breakfast on-the-go, or a quick pick-me-up in blenders that come in a range of sizes and colors.

• COFFEE MAKER: Choose an espresso, cold brew, traditional drip coffee maker and more from the KitchenAid^® coffee collection.

• CORDLESS APPLIANCES: Making in a small or makeshift space just got easier with a cordless food chopper, hand mixer and hand blender that give you the flexibility to create wherever whatever and however you choose in the kitchen.

• ELECTRIC TEA KETTLE: From variable temperature settings to precision pouring, there’s an electric kettle to help you get through your kitchen remodel with café style beverages.

PACK YOUR KITCHEN

Packing up your kitchen belongings is an essential step in surviving your upcoming remodel. Pack up the kitchen in well-labeled boxes for easy access and to make room for contractors, their materials and tools.

CAREFULLY PACK YOUR KITCHEN

Taking time to pack up your space thoughtfully, before the onset of your project, can make unpacking go all that much more smoothly. Identify key supplies and tools you’ll use frequently during the process and pack everything else away. 

• Label your boxes clearly and group like-items together for easy access and seamless unpacking. 

• Purge before you pack – this is the perfect time to check expiration dates and discard out-of-date food items.

• Donate unused small appliances or cabinetry, countertops and large appliances that are still in good shape.

SET UP A TEMPORARY KITCHEN

Designate a spot, away from the area that’s being remodeled, that can serve as your stand-in kitchen. Some things you’ll want to include and consider:

• A large table is helpful to hold small appliances, and serve as a small prep area.

• Pack everything in well-labeled boxes but keep a few essentials handy, including oven mitts, mixing bowls, cutting board/knives, measuring spoons/cups and basic spices/seasonings.

• Designate a temporary new “home” for the refrigerator that’s easily accessible. If you won’t have a refrigerator during your project, an undercounter refrigerator like these options from KitchenAid brand can help keep beverages and select food items cool. A cooler can also hold a few essentials.

• Before you lose your kitchen – if you have access to a fridge – fill the freezer with pre-prepped meals you can warm up in a microwave or countertop oven.

• Many of us eat most of our meals at a table or island in the kitchen. Since these will be unavailable you’ll need to plan where you’re going to eat. Dining rooms are always great options. Setting up trays in a family room is another possibility. If the weather’s nice, the patio or deck may come in very handy, or throw a blanket on the grass and have a picnic in the backyard.

KEEP YOUR SPACE NEAT AND TIDY

Keeping your temporary kitchen and eating areas clean and organized can go a long way in minimizing the stress and disruption that come along with the remodeling experience. Make sure you have a few key cleaning supplies at your fingertips, along with the following: 

• Stock up on paper towels, dish soap, towels, trash bags and disposable plates, cups and utensils.

• If you’re washing pots and pans in the bathroom or a laundry/utility sink, consider adding a drying rack nearby.

• Find a spot for trash/recycling and be prepared to empty more frequently.

PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED

Kitchen renovations can be a source of frustration and stress, and preparing for unexpected bumps in the road can help to make the process much easier. Your old kitchen is purged and carefully packed, your temporary kitchen is set up and ready to cook, and your new kitchen is underway. You’ve planned for everything, except for the one thing that’s hard to plan for – the unexpected.

Here are a few ways to help soften the blow of unexpected surprises.

• Include extra money in your “dining out” budget to accommodate extra meals that might be necessary if you experience project delays.

• If you have pets, make sure there’s a plan for them too. Factor daycare or boarding expenses into your budget for heavy construction days to keep pets safe and happy. 

• If possible, coordinate a trip away from home into your schedule to give everyone a break from the activity.

There’s nothing more frustrating than finding the refrigerator of your dreams then realizing on delivery day that it won’t fit through your front door. That’s why it’s essential to understand size and dimensions before you buy. Consult sizing guides to learn how to measure for your new appliances and then double-check your appliance measurements with your contractor when the time comes. Familiarize yourself with the specifications and dimensions of your appliances. Here are some additional things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Inspect your space for proper outlets, plumbing and water lines.

• Map out a path of entry: Measure the width of each doorway, hallway and stairwell the appliance will pass through. Make sure the space is clear of personal items on delivery day. Exterior doors may be removed, but interior doors will not.

• Make sure you have the right parts if you’re installing yourself. If you select installation at checkout, KitchenAid will automatically add the parts you need to get your appliance hooked up.

• Be on hand for delivery and to inspect your new appliances.

If you’re preparing to uninstall yourself but have a third party haul away, make sure your appliance is empty and unhooked before your new appliance is delivered.

There may be a few bumps along the way, but with a little patience, a sense of humor, armed with the three “P’s” – and all the appliance support you need from KitchenAid – you’ll be creating in the kitchen of your dreams before you know it.

SHOP FOR NEW APPLIANCES FROM KITCHENAID BRAND

Curate a culinary oasis with the help of major appliances from KitchenAid brand. From wall ovens and cooktops to dishwashers and microwaves, KitchenAid brand offers stylish and reliable solutions that let you explore your creativity.