The kitchen is the heart of the home—but during a remodel, it can quickly become the loudest, dustiest, most inconvenient place in the house. For many homeowners, the idea of escaping the chaos with a well-timed vacation sounds tempting. But is it actually a good idea? Here’s what to consider before booking those flights.
The Pros of Going Away
- Less Stress and Disruption. Living through a renovation means early morning noise, limited cooking options, and constant dust. Being away spares you from the daily inconvenience and lets the contractors work without tiptoeing around you.
- Faster Progress. Without needing to work around your schedule or kitchen access, contractors may be able to keep a more efficient timeline. No one has to coordinate “quiet hours” or clean up in between your mealtimes.
- A Well-Deserved Break. If you’ve been in planning mode for months, a vacation can give you a mental reset so you come back refreshed—and excited to see the transformation.
The Cons of Being Away
- Communication Challenges. Even with phone and video updates, not being there can make it harder to handle quick decisions about materials, layouts, or unexpected issues.
- Risk of Surprises. Without your daily oversight, small mistakes can go unnoticed until they’re harder (and more expensive) to fix.
- Security Concerns. If workers need access to your home while you’re gone, make sure you trust them completely—or arrange for someone local to check in.
Tips for a Smooth Renovation While You’re Away
- Assign a “project buddy”—a friend, neighbor, or family member who can stop by and report back.
- Have all selections made in advance—appliances, countertops, paint colors—so no one has to make big decisions without you.
- Stay connected—schedule regular photo or video updates from your contractor.
- Secure your valuables—and ensure doors, gates, and alarm systems are set.
If you’re the type who can make quick decisions from afar and you trust your contractor completely, a vacation during a kitchen renovation can be a great way to dodge dust and stress. If you like to be hands-on, you may prefer a staycation instead—somewhere nearby, but far enough from the noise to keep your sanity intact.
After all, whether you’re sipping coffee in your favorite local café or on a beach halfway around the world, the goal is the same: to come back to a beautiful, functional kitchen you’ll love for years to come.
