Kitchen projects in Cornwall are booming—but the same mistakes crop up again and again. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls and keep your budget, timeline and sanity intact.

Mistake 1: Not Planning Alternative Cooking Arrangements

Weeks without a kitchen leads to overspending on takeaways and stress at mealtimes. Set up a temporary kitchen at home or hire a kitchen pod for full facilities (hob, oven, sink, fridge‑freezer).

• Batch cook before works start; freeze labelled portions.
• Create a mini‑kitchen zone or use a driveway pod to keep dust out of living spaces.
• Plan 10–15 easy meals that reheat well.

Mistake 2: Underestimating Timelines

Lead times for cabinetry, worktops and trades can shift—especially around summer holidays. Add 2–3 weeks of buffer and choose hire options that can extend if delays occur.

• Confirm dates in writing with your fitter and electrician.
• Book provisional pod delivery/collection with flexibility.
• Expect last‑minute snags (tiling, appliance faults, plaster drying).

Mistake 3: Choosing the Wrong Contractor

Lowest price isn’t always best. Prioritise installers with verifiable local references (Truro, Falmouth, St Austell, Newquay, Penzance).

• Ask for photos of recent work and two local references.
• Check they’re happy to coordinate with a temporary kitchen provider.
• Clarify who project‑manages extras: flooring, plastering, electrics.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Practical Layouts

Beautiful designs still need workflow. Think storage near prep, bin near sink, and enough power for appliances. Future‑proof ventilation and task lighting.

• Mark zones for prep, cooking, cleaning, serving.
• Plan sockets for kettle, coffee machine, air fryer and chargers.
• Choose durable, easy‑clean finishes suited to coastal living.

Mistake 5: Forgetting About Insurance Options

Some projects uncover leaks or wiring issues that trigger claims. If your kitchen becomes unusable, alternative accommodation may include a pod—often cheaper than moving out and faster to approve.

Conclusion

Avoid these five mistakes and your renovation will run smoother. Plan meals, build buffer time, choose trusted fitters, design for real life—and consider a pod so home life carries on as normal.

Get a free quote for temporary kitchen hire in Cornwall.