Living through a renovation is a team sport. We asked local families across Cornwall and Devon for their best tips. Here’s what helped them stay calm, keep costs down and finish on time.

Plan Meals Around the Build

• Batch cook Sundays: “We froze curry, chilli and lasagne in portions.”
• Keep staples handy: Tins, pasta, microwave rice, wraps.
• Use simple tools: “Air fryer + rice cooker carried us for 3 weeks.”

Control Dust & Noise

• Ask your builder for zip doors and dust sheets.
• Run jobs that create dust while you’re out with kids/pets.
• Set quiet hours for remote work or naps.

Kids, Pets & Routines

• Create a “safe zone” room with snacks and activities.
• Keep pet gates up near the work area; warn trades about doors.
• Stick to school and bedtime schedules where possible.

Communication with Builders

• Agree a weekly check‑in for updates and decisions.
• Put changes in writing to avoid confusion.
• Ask for notice before water/electricity shut‑offs.

How a Kitchen Pod Helped

Several families told us a kitchen pod changed the game:

• “Cooking stayed normal—less stress and healthier eating.”
• “No dust in the house—everything messy stayed outside.”
• “We extended the hire two weeks when the worktops were delayed.”

See kitchen hire for renovations for how it works.

Conclusion

Plan simple meals, protect living spaces, and communicate clearly with your builders. If you want life to feel normal during the build, a temporary kitchen is the easiest win.

Get a free quote for a kitchen pod in Cornwall or Devon.