How to Prep Your Space for a Remodel with Kids at Home

Tips from a family who’s been there (more than once)

Let’s be honest—living through a home renovation is never totally easy, but when you add kids to the mix? It can feel overwhelming fast.

As a family-owned company (with three little ones running around our own home most days), we totally get it. We’ve done plenty of renovations with sippy cups on the counters and naps happening in the next room. The good news? With a little planning and flexibility, it’s absolutely doable.

Here are a few things we always recommend to our clients to help make the remodel process smoother, safer, and a little more peaceful when kids are in the house:

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🧹 1. Clear the Zone (and Then Some)

Before demo begins, take time to fully clear the space—and then clear a little more. Kids love to wander and explore, so make sure tools, cords, and materials are stored away from curious hands. Use labeled bins or plastic storage tubs to quickly organize items you’ll need later.

Bonus Tip: Create a “don’t touch” zone where kids know they’re not allowed, even after hours.

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🧸 2. Set Up a Temporary Family Hub

If your kitchen is under construction, set up a mini version elsewhere. Same goes for a living room, dining area, or homeschool corner. Think of it as creating a little “base camp” for daily life, stocked with snacks, toys, and everything you’ll need to keep the day flowing.

You don’t need a lot of space—just a corner that feels calm and semi-contained.

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📆 3. Adjust Your Routine—But Keep a Rhythm

Renovations can bring some chaos, but kids still thrive with predictability. Even if meal times shift or quiet time happens in a different room, try to keep a loose rhythm going.

Stick to familiar routines like morning books, outside play, or bedtime routines. It helps everyone feel more grounded—even the grownups.

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👷‍♂️ 4. Talk About What’s Happening

Let your kids know what to expect in an age-appropriate way. “This week, the workers will be taking out the cabinets!” or “We’ll be using paper plates while the sink is gone.” Letting them be part of the process (even just by watching) makes it feel less scary and more exciting.

You might be surprised how proud they are to be “helping” with the family project.

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🎧 5. Make Space for Quiet (and Sanity)

Noise is inevitable. If you’ve got nap times or quiet time built into your day, try to coordinate with your contractor in advance. At Lane Brooks Homes, we always do our best to schedule louder work outside of key family routines when possible.

A sound machine or noise-canceling headphones can also go a long way—especially for babies or easily overstimulated kids.

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💛 6. Give Yourself (and Your Space) Some Grace

Your home might feel a little upside down for a while—and that’s okay. This is temporary. Embrace paper plates, extra screen time, picnics on the living room floor, and maybe a few extra drive-thru dinners. You’re making your home better, and that takes time.

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Final Thoughts

Remodeling with kids at home isn’t always easy—but it’s absolutely worth it. With the right prep and a little flexibility, your home can stay functional and (mostly) peaceful during the process.

At Lane Brooks Homes, we design and build with families in mind. We understand the chaos and the beauty of raising kids while building the home you love—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

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Thinking about starting a remodel but not sure how to juggle it all?

We’d love to help you create a plan that works with your family’s lifestyle. Reach out to us anytime—we’re based right here in Charleston, SC.

@lanebrookshomes