So, you’ve decided to renovate your existing kitchen. Working with a kitchen design specialist, you’ve designed and planned your remodelled kitchen. Now comes the fun part; preparing for your kitchen installation day!

To avoid holding up the installation of your new kitchen, plan ahead and prepare your existing kitchen space. Here’s how you can prepare for a kitchen renovation in 4 easy steps:

1. Clean out your cabinets
Now’s a good time to do a spring clean on your kitchen cabinets; be ruthless and get rid of anything you won’t need in your new kitchen. In cardboard or plastic boxes, pack away the items you won’t need to use while your kitchen is being renovated. Tape up the boxes to protect the contents inside from dust and dirt. Set aside any items you’ll need in your temporary kitchen; day to day cutlery, crockery, pots, pans and small appliances.

2. Set up your temporary kitchen
You’ll need a kitchen stand-in, an area where you can cook simple meals, make school lunches, a bowl of cereal or a cup of coffee. So designate an area away from the construction zone that works best for you; perhaps an area in your garage, workroom or spare room. As most of your kitchen gear will already be packed away, set up the essentials; a small fridge, microwave, toaster, kettle and a fold away table to use as a kitchen bench.

3. Stock the pantry with convenience foods
Forget about cooking elaborate meals during your kitchen renovation. For the sake of convenience, consider stocking up the pantry with quick and easy meals, heat and eat foods and ready-to-eat snacks. Using disposable or recyclable plates, cups and utensils will save you washing dishes.

4. Plan meals around your temporary kitchen
Slow cookers, microwaves, sandwich makers and hot plates are all hugely functional in your temporary kitchen. If the weather is good, plan meals using your BBQ; you’ll be amazed at how much you can cook on a BBQ.