Originally posted on 01/29/2018
Updated on 07/24/2025
Remodeling your kitchen is one of the most rewarding home upgrades you can make, but it can also be one of the most disruptive. The kitchen is where you start your mornings, prep your meals, and gather with family, so when it's out of commission, your whole routine gets thrown off.
If you're wondering how to plan a kitchen remodel that doesn't derail your life, you're in the right place. From setting up a temporary kitchen to understanding how long it takes to remodel a kitchen and how much a kitchen remodel costs, this blog walks you through everything you need to know.
Step 1: Create a Temporary Kitchen Setup
Dining out every night sounds fun, until it isn't. It's expensive, not always healthy, and gets old fast. Even if your stove is out of commission, you still need a place to prep lunches, brew your morning coffee, or toast a bagel.
Designate a temporary kitchen zone in another part of your home, such as the dining room, garage, or even a corner of the living room. Equip it with:
- A microwave or toaster oven
- Electric kettle or coffee maker
- Mini fridge or cooler with ice packs
- Folding table or cart for prep space
- A bin with utensils, plates, napkins, and pantry staples
Having a dedicated space to prepare basic meals and snacks can save your budget and your patience.
Step 2: Make Everyday Essentials Easy to Grab
During a kitchen remodel, convenience becomes your best friend. It's tempting to box everything up and get it out of the way, but you'll thank yourself later for keeping a few essentials out and within easy reach.
Think about the items you use every single day. Maybe that includes your favorite coffee supplies, cereal bowls, a reliable cutting board and knife, snack containers for the kids, or the travel mug you take to work each morning. Rather than scattering these must-haves across random cabinets or bags, try storing them together in a couple of large, clearly labeled bins. That way, you won't have to dig through boxes just to find something simple like a can opener.
To make cleanup easier during this chaotic phase, it also helps to keep a stash of disposable plates, cups, and utensils on hand. Little things like this can go a long way in keeping your daily routine intact.
Step 3: Reorganize & Declutter While You're At It
If you've ever wondered when the right time is to purge your kitchen junk drawer or toss that chipped mug you never use, this is it. Packing up your kitchen is the perfect opportunity to evaluate what you actually use and what's just taking up space.
To make the most of it, consider:
- Tossing broken or mismatched food storage containers: If it's missing a lid or warped from the microwave, let it go.
- Donating duplicates or unused appliances: Do you really need three cheese graters or that old bread machine you've never touched?
- Packing like with like: Group and label boxes (e.g., "Baking Tools," "Serving Ware," "Kids' Dishes") so unpacking is easier later.
- Protecting fragile items: Even if storage is temporary, things can get damaged in the shuffle. Wrap breakables with care.
- Decluttering now also makes your new kitchen feel like a true fresh start.
Step 4: Understand the Timeline
It's a question nearly every homeowner asks at the start of a renovation: How long does it take to remodel a kitchen? While every project has its own variables, most kitchen remodels follow a similar general timeline. Here's what you can typically expect from start to finish:
- Planning and design: 2--6 weeks
- Ordering materials: 4--8 weeks (some custom cabinets can take even longer)
- Demolition and construction: 4--12 weeks
- Inspections and final touches: 1--2 weeks
So, in total, your kitchen could be out of commission for 2 to 4 months. However, the more prepared you are going in, the smoother this process will feel.
Step 5: Budget Wisely
Costs vary widely depending on materials, labor, and the size of your kitchen. According to Angi's 2025 data, most homeowners spend between $14,600 and $41,500, with a typical kitchen renovation averaging around $27,000. Meanwhile, NerdWallet reports that a minor remodel averages about $27,500, a more extensive mid-range renovation comes in around $80,000, and an upscale project can top $158,500.
If you're wondering how much a kitchen remodel costs, it's best to get quotes from a local professional, factoring in regional pricing, material availability, and your specific layout. Also, remember to build in a 10--20% contingency budget for unexpected issues like plumbing or electrical surprises.
You can also reduce costs by:
- Reusing existing cabinetry boxes and replacing only the doors
- Choosing stock or semi-custom cabinets instead of fully custom
- Opting for butcher block or laminate countertops over stone
- Keeping appliances in their current locations to avoid rerouting plumbing or gas lines
Step 6: Communicate With Your Contractor
Successful kitchen remodels start with clear communication. Before the project begins, take time to talk through your priorities, non-negotiables, and any concerns you might have. Establish a shared understanding of the work schedule, how your home will be accessed, and how often you'll receive updates. Keeping an open line of communication throughout the process helps prevent surprises and allows everyone to be on the same page.
And don't settle for a company based on proximity alone, either. Prioritize a team that offers both design and construction expertise, keeps you informed from start to finish, and understands how to turn your vision into reality.
Step 7: Don't Forget the End Goal
It might feel like a hassle now, but keep your eyes on the prize. Picture yourself cooking in a space that actually works for your life, whether that means extra prep space, smart storage, or a place where everyone naturally gathers. Once your remodel is complete, it'll all be worth it.
During the messier phases of construction, it can be easy to get overwhelmed, but remind yourself why you started. Keep a few inspiration photos on hand or revisit your design plans whenever you need a boost. Staying focused on the outcome will help you stay patient through the process and excited for the transformation ahead.
Request a Kitchen Remodel Near West Hartford, CT
A kitchen remodel is an investment in how you live every day. From those early morning coffee rituals to hosting family holidays, your kitchen should reflect your lifestyle, your taste, and your needs. With the right design and construction team by your side, the process can be smooth, rewarding, and even enjoyable.
If you're planning a kitchen remodel in the West Hartford, CT, area, Holland Kitchens & Baths is here to help. Our team brings decades of experience in custom kitchen design, cabinetry, and remodeling. We take the time to understand your goals, walk you through every decision, and make sure your new kitchen works just as beautifully as it looks.
Whether you're starting from scratch or ready to finalize your vision, we're ready to bring your dream kitchen to life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.