How to Set Up a Temporary Kitchen During Your Kitchen Remodel
How to Set Up a Temporary Kitchen During Your Kitchen Remodel
A kitchen remodel is an exciting opportunity to create the space you’ve always dreamed of—but let’s be honest, it can also disrupt your daily routine. Cooking meals, making coffee, and keeping the family fed suddenly become a challenge when your main kitchen is out of commission. That’s where a temporary kitchen comes in.
With a little planning, you can set up a functional mini-kitchen that keeps meals, snacks, and coffee flowing while your new space is under construction. From choosing the right location to stocking essential appliances, these tips will help you stay organized, stress-free, and well-fed throughout your remodel.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step in setting up a temporary kitchen is deciding where it will live. Look for a space that is:
Close to electricity: You’ll need outlets for small appliances like microwaves, toaster ovens, and coffee makers.
Safe and clean: Keep your temporary kitchen away from construction dust and heavy foot traffic.
Accessible to water (if possible): A sink makes cleanup easier, but if that’s not an option, tubs or large containers can serve as makeshift washing stations.
Common locations include a dining room, basement, garage, or laundry room. Even a small corner with a table or folding workstation can serve as a surprisingly functional temporary kitchen.
2. Gather Essential Appliances & Tools
Your temporary kitchen doesn’t need to replicate your full kitchen—just cover the essentials. Some must-haves include:
Microwave – for reheating meals or cooking simple dishes.
Toaster oven or air fryer – small but versatile, great for baking, broiling, or crisping food.
Coffee maker – because life without coffee is hard.
Slow cooker or Instant Pot – perfect for hands-off meals.
Hot plate or portable induction burner – a substitute stove for simple cooking.
Other helpful items: blender, electric griddle, cutting board, a few sharp knives, and basic utensils. Keep it simple to avoid clutter and stress.
3. Create Zones for Functionality
Even in a compact space, organization is key. Divide your temporary kitchen into zones:
Cooking Zone: Small appliances, hot plate, and prep space.
Storage Zone: Pantry staples, snacks, and spices in labeled bins or shelves.
Cleanup Zone: Dish tubs, drying racks, and a small set of reusable plates and cups.
Grab & Go Zone: Easy-access breakfast foods, school lunches, or quick snacks for family members.
Label bins and keep everything visible—this reduces time searching for items and helps the household run smoothly.
4. Simplify Meals During the Remodel
Meals don’t have to be complicated. During a remodel, focus on:
No-cook meals: Sandwiches, wraps, salads, or breakfast bowls.
Freezer-friendly meals: Prepare meals ahead of time to heat in the microwave or toaster oven.
Outdoor cooking: Use the grill as a substitute stove or oven whenever possible.
One-pot or slow cooker meals: Save cleanup time and energy.
Planning simple meals will reduce stress and keep everyone satisfied, even without your full kitchen available.
5. Stay Organized & Stress-Free
Use folding tables or rolling carts to maximize counter space.
Keep trash and recycling bins nearby.
Label containers and shelves for easy access by the whole family.
Remember: this is temporary. A functional setup is better than a perfect setup.
A little forethought goes a long way. By staying organized and keeping meals simple, you’ll make the remodel process smoother for everyone.
Conclusion
Setting up a temporary kitchen may feel like an extra step, but it can make a huge difference in how smoothly your remodel goes. By planning ahead, organizing your space, and keeping meals simple, you can keep your household running with minimal disruption—and even enjoy a few creative meal hacks along the way.
At Odell Construction, we don’t just help homeowners design and build beautiful kitchens—we guide them through every stage of the process, including the practical side of surviving life while the work is happening.
Ready to start planning your kitchen remodel? Book your discovery call today, and let’s create the space you’ve been dreaming about—without the stress.