What’s for Dinner?! Simple Tips for Eating at Home During a Kitchen Remodel
It’s 2025 and if you’re gearing up for a kitchen remodeling project—maybe tackling cabinet refacing or installing custom kitchen cabinets—you’re probably wondering how to keep your household fed without the usual comforts of a fully functioning kitchen. Not being able to access your fridge, sink, or oven during the day is no small inconvenience. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
With a little creativity and a pinch of organization, you can still enjoy meals at home while your dream kitchen takes shape. We’ve detailed below our top 5 tried-and-true tips to help you adapt (and keep your sanity) during your kitchen remodel!
1. Create a "Mini-Kitchen" Station
When your main kitchen is off-limits, the key is to set up a mini-kitchen somewhere nearby, like your dining room or living room. This space doesn’t need to be fancy—just a flat surface (like a folding table or even a sturdy side table) for your everyday essentials:
Air Fryer, Toaster, and Coffee Maker: If you have the room, plug in your small appliances for quick meals.
Snack Station: Stock up on grab-and-go items like granola bars, fresh fruit (think…bananas!), and easy healthy options.
Paper Products or Reusable Cups/Utensils: Keep them in a bin or on the table for easy access.
Temporary Trash & Recycling Bins: Make a spot for these items to avoid extra mess.
By designating an official “mini-kitchen” zone, you won’t be constantly searching for plates or rummaging through boxes when hunger strikes.
2. Rethink Your Dining Room Layout
Consider rearranging the furniture in your dining room to make it more functional during the remodel. You can:
Push Chairs Against the Wall: Not only does this free up floor space, but the area underneath can be a handy spot to store heavier items—like pots and pans—that you’re still using.
Use a Folding Table or Card Table: This can serve as your prep station or extra countertop. Once your custom kitchen cabinets are installed and the remodel is done, you can easily fold it back up.
Small changes to your dining area can make a big difference in how you navigate daily meals.
3. Get Smart with Storage—Save Those Plentiful Amazon Boxes!
A few weeks before your remodeling project kicks off, start stocking up on those Amazon or UPS delivery boxes. They’re perfect for corralling cups, dishware, canned goods, or pantry staples.
Plus, most come in various sizes, making them super versatile. Label each box (e.g., “Snacks,” “Breakfast Items,” “Dinnerware”) so you can quickly find what you need. Stack them in a corner or along a wall to keep things tidy and accessible.
4. Plan Simple Meals (or Go Semi-Homemade)
With limited space and appliances, you’ll want to think strategically about what to cook. Focus on meal ideas that don’t require a ton of prep or clean-up:
One-Pot Wonders: If you have a slow cooker or Instant Pot, you can make chili, soup, or pasta in one go.
Microwave-Friendly Recipes: Microwave-safe steam bags for veggies, pre-cooked grains, or heat-and-eat meals can be lifesavers.
Salads & Sandwiches: Quick, fresh, and minimal dishes to wash—always a plus.
If you do order takeout, consider picking restaurants that offer healthy sides or family-style deals so you can keep it cost-effective.
5. Embrace Disposable or Reusable Options
Washing dishes can be tricky without your regular kitchen sink. You can cut down on dishwashing by relying on paper plates, compostable cutlery, or reusable items that are easily rinsed off in a bathroom sink or with a hose outdoors (during the summer months).
This keeps dish duty low-stress and easy to manage.
A CT Kitchen Refacing process with Less Stress
Working on a custom kitchen remodeling project, whether it’s cabinet refacing or a full-scale transformation, doesn’t have to mean endless fast-food runs or chaotic mealtimes. By setting up a mini-kitchen, rethinking your dining room layout, and stashing kitchen essentials in labeled boxes, you can weather the construction phase with minimal fuss.
Located right here in Bethel CT, Ackley Cabinet’s Forefront Remodeling approach simplifies the kitchen update process by working over your existing kitchen cabinets and allowing YOU full access to all your kitchen appliances & sink EVERYDAY DURING THE PROJECT!
So, hang in there and bon appétit! Soon enough, you’ll be serving up your first home-cooked meal in a kitchen that’s beautifully transformed and uniquely yours. If you’re interested in our unique, solid wood cabinet refacing process, give us a call today! Thanks for stopping by!