I recently returned from a visit with my son and daughter-in-law in Connecticut. The purpose of the trip was—as the kitchen designer—to be available to the contractor as he began the installation of their soon-to-be remodeled kitchen.

Having had the first-hand experience of living in a home where daily function was interrupted, I can realistically share these experiences.

It is a fact during the remodeling process, whether it is a kitchen or a bath, nothing is going to be in its proper place. As the work begins, plan to be up and dressed early because there will be contractors seemingly everywhere.

The kitchen is the hardest room in the house to remodel, and most people who have had this experience agree. In the best of all worlds, you could rent a small apartment or house away from construction but close enough to keep an eye on the project.

If you plan to stay in your home follow this advice:

• If you have children, keep their safety in mind, and clean up any messes the contractors miss at the end of the day.
  
• For your own peace of mind, be aware the project will probably take longer to finish than you expect.
  
• Be prepared. A cabinet or appliance could be damaged, and you will have to wait for a replacement.
  
• There’s no guarantee the weather will cooperate.
  
• Will the pounding ever stop? Probably not, find an activity to keep you busy and away for several hours during the day.
  
• Have your contractor hang plastic or old sheets over the doorways to prevent dust from going everywhere.
  
• Be prepared for the time you will be without the kitchen. Move a microwave, a coffeepot and some dishes into another room for snacks.

Any inconvenience and frustration you feel during the remodeling will soon be forgotten as you enjoy the results of all those long hours of planning. TPW