Temporary Kitchen Setups: Are They Worth It During a Remodel?
When you're living through a kitchen renovation, it's easy to underestimate how disruptive it can be to go without one of the most essential rooms in your home. That’s why many homeowners consider setting up a temporary kitchen to maintain some normalcy during the remodel.
But is it really worth the effort and cost? At RGH Development, we’ve worked with dozens of clients across Maplewood, Millburn, Chatham, and Summit, NJ who faced this very decision. Here's our breakdown of the pros, cons, and practical tips to help you decide.
The Benefits of a Temporary Kitchen
1. Convenience & Comfort
Having a designated area to prep simple meals, make coffee, or wash dishes (even in a utility sink) can make life feel less chaotic.
2. Cost Savings on Dining Out
Without a kitchen, it’s tempting to rely on takeout. A temporary setup can reduce your reliance on restaurants and help you stick to your budget.
3. Less Disruption for Families
If you have kids or work from home, having access to a fridge and microwave can make daily routines much smoother.
The Downsides to Consider
1. Limited Functionality
A temporary kitchen is not the real thing. You’ll likely be working with a hot plate, microwave, and a folding table—not exactly gourmet.
2. Space Constraints
Not every home has space to spare for a makeshift kitchen. Setting one up might mean sacrificing part of your living or dining room.
3. Additional Cost & Effort
While generally affordable, you may still need to rent or buy a few essentials like countertop appliances, storage shelves, or even a portable sink.
Tips for a Successful Temporary Setup
Choose a practical location – A garage, basement, or even a corner of your living room can work.
Repurpose what you already have – Use your old fridge or a camp stove, and bring in small appliances like an air fryer or coffee maker.
Keep it organized – Plastic bins, portable drawers, and folding tables help create functional zones.
Plan your meals – Stick to no-cook or low-prep meals to keep things simple.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In most cases, yes—a temporary kitchen setup can be worth the effort, especially for longer renovations. At RGH Development, we often help clients plan for this transition as part of their remodeling process. While it won’t be glamorous, it can make your renovation experience far less stressful.
Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? We’ll walk you through the process from demo to dream kitchen—and yes, we’ll even help you plan a temporary setup if you need it.
Contact RGH Development Co. today to get started!