Tips for Living in Your Home During a Remodeling Project

Remodeling your Minneapolis Area home is exciting—you’re investing in a space that will serve your family better for years to come! But if you plan to live at home while the work is underway, you’ll need to get creative with ways to make daily life more manageable.

With some thoughtful planning and the right remodeling partner, you can navigate the process with less stress and more confidence. These practical tips can help you maintain comfort and routine while your Twin Cities renovation is in progress.

1. temporary spaces

kitchen Remodel

If you’re starting a kitchen remodel in Minneapolis, you’ll likely lose access to your stove, sink, and dishwasher for weeks (see our kitchen timelines). A temporary kitchen setup will keep your family running smoothly.

• Pick a location: A dining room, basement, or even garage can work.

• Appliances to keep handy: Microwave, toaster oven, hot plate, coffee maker, and mini fridge.

• Keep it simple: Stick to easy-to-prepare meals, crockpot recipes, or grilling outside.

• Use disposables: Paper plates, cups, and utensils can save time and frustration without a kitchen sink.

bathroom remodel

Bathroom remodels in Minneapolis often require a shower or toilet to be out of commission (see our bathroom project timelines). To minimize disruption:

• Stagger family schedules to avoid congestion in your remaining bathroom(s).

• Ask your remodeler if a temporary shower or toilet can be installed in a basement or utility area.

• Check with neighbors or gym memberships for backup shower access if needed.

• Pack a bathroom “go bag” with essentials so you don’t waste time hunting for toiletries.

2. Protect Your Belongings

Construction dust travels farther than you think, especially in older Twin Cities homes with open ductwork.

• Seal off construction zones with plastic barriers and zipper doors (professional contractors do this for you).

• Cover furniture in nearby rooms with sheets or plastic tarps.

• Close vents and change filters often to protect your HVAC system.

• Use airtight plastic bins to store clothing, books, or toys you don’t want covered in dust.

3. Create Safe Zones for Kids and Pets

Active remodel sites are no place for little ones or curious pets. Plan ahead so everyone stays safe and comfortable.

• Designate one “construction-free” floor or room as your family’s retreat.

• Use baby gates or pet barriers to block access to work areas.

• Think about noise: white noise machines or background music can help drown out construction sounds during naps or when working from home.

4. Make Use of Outdoor Spaces

During warm months in Minneapolis, your deck, porch, or backyard can become extra living space. 

• Grill outdoors to simplify cooking during a kitchen remodel.

• Use patio furniture as a stand-in dining or relaxation area.

• Let kids and pets burn off energy outside when indoor space feels limited.

5. Organize Essentials for Easy Access

Living in a remodel often means your usual storage is blocked off. Staying organized makes life easier.

• Pack daily essentials in clear bins or baskets. Think coffee supplies, school lunches, pet food, or charging cords.

• Label everything so you don’t waste time digging through boxes.

• Create a cleaning caddy with wipes, paper towels, and a small vacuum for quick dust control.

6. Take Advantage of Off-Peak Times

Construction crews typically work standard hours (7 a.m.–5 p.m.). Use evenings and weekends to reset your home and routines.

• Do laundry or deep cleaning once crews are gone for the day.

• Rearrange temporary spaces as needed to keep things comfortable.

• Plan family downtime in the evenings when your home feels quieter.

7. Treat It Like a Mini Move

Living in a remodel can feel like camping indoors. A “move-out mindset” helps you pack, declutter, and streamline life during construction.

• Pare down to essentials for the duration of the project.

• Store rarely used items offsite in a storage unit or at a friend’s house.

• Think seasonal: If it’s summer, box up winter coats to free up space.

Temporary Disruption, Lasting Reward

Living in your home during a renovation may not always be easy, but with preparation, flexibility, and the right design-build team, it can be a manageable and even exciting chapter in your home’s story.

At MA Peterson, we understand these difficulties. Consider what is the best time of year for your family to start a project; whether remodeling in phases is better for you; and overall timelines for remodels, kitchens, and bathrooms to help you plan how long your project will take.