The art of preparing and finishing your kitchen renovation.

Simple steps to make the process smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable.

My journey with Schmidt Kitchen

When we renovated our home, the kitchen was the part we were most excited about. Designing it from scratch meant we could really think about how we wanted it to look, and how we would use the space day to day. Schmidt were so patient with us as we tested out different designs, and they came up with brilliant ideas to save space that we never would have thought of.

Having gone through a full house renovation, including the kitchen; I’ve learned so much. It was a big project, but also one of the most rewarding things we’ve done. That experience inspired me to help others enjoy their own renovation journeys, making the process less stressful and much more enjoyable.

Why decluttering matters

There’s something powerful about walking into a clear, uncluttered space. Visual clutter might not shout for our attention, but it quietly drains our energy. Research backs this up; studies from UCLA show that people with more cluttered homes experience higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. A cluttered bedroom has even been linked with disrupted sleep, and scientists at Princeton found that too much visual 'noise' makes it harder to concentrate.

So while it may feel like 'just stuff,' clutter carries weight. By reducing it, we free up space not just in our homes, but in our heads. A kitchen renovation is the perfect opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you and begin again with a fresh, lighter energy.

Start with a clear-out

The very first step is to go through your cupboards and drawers. Be honest: how many mugs do you really use? Do you need three can openers? Is that spice jar from 2018 ever going to make it into a meal? The goal isn’t to get rid of everything, but to keep what’s useful, loved, and in good condition.

Me, sorting through our old kitchen contents - we probably donated half of what we had!

This part can feel uncomfortable; letting go often does, but it’s also liberating. Think about how you want your new kitchen to feel: open, organised, and easy to use. Keeping that vision in mind makes decisions much simpler.

Pack with care

Once you’ve decided what stays, it’s time to pack it away until your renovation is complete. This is where a little forethought saves a lot of stress later. Group items together by category; everyday glasses, baking tools, or dry goods, so unpacking is straightforward.

Clean everything before you box it up, and choose sealed containers where possible. Renovation dust has a way of sneaking into the smallest gaps, and the last thing you want is to scrub items down again before using them. Labelling boxes clearly might sound obvious, but it’s a small step that makes a big difference when you’re living without a kitchen for a while.

The plastic boxes were far better to keep things dust free and we still use them now for loft items.

Organise with purpose

When your new kitchen is ready, the real fun begins. This is where Schmidt’s thoughtful design features shine, and where you can make conscious choices about how your kitchen will work for you. Everyday essentials should be close to hand - pans near the hob, plates and bowls within easy reach, and oils and spices kept where you naturally use them. The aim is to make cooking feel effortless.

We only have to step sideways to reach what we need!

There are small touches that can transform your space: decanting dry goods into clear containers so you can instantly see what you have, using drawer dividers to stop utensils becoming a jumble, or adding shelf risers to make use of vertical space. Think, too, about the items that don’t belong on your countertops. Creating a discreet 'drop zone' for keys, chargers, and the daily bits and pieces of life keeps your surfaces clear and your kitchen feeling calm. We use a secret drawer in the bin and recycling cupboard.

A fresh start

Preparing your kitchen for renovation is more than just a practical step; it’s an opportunity. By decluttering and organising, you’re setting the stage for a home that feels lighter, calmer, and works for you.

I’m really enjoying partnering with Schmidt Kitchens to help people through their renovation journey. From my own house renovation, I’ve seen how design and organisation work best together. Schmidt’s clever kitchen designs, combined with a little support with decluttering and organising, can create a space that’s not only beautiful, but practical and tailored to the way you live every day.

If you’d like a little support along the way; whether that’s guidance with decluttering, help with packing and protecting your belongings, or a plan for unpacking and organising once your new kitchen is ready; I can help. My aim is to make your renovation journey easier, so you can focus on the exciting part; stepping into a kitchen that feels like the heart of your home. You can find our more about me and the services I offer on my website.