When hiring a temporary kitchen for a renovation or insurance repair, one of the first decisions is whether to go for an outdoor unit (a driveway pod) or an indoor unit (a capsule kitchen set up inside your home).
Both work well, but they suit different situations. This guide compares them across every factor that matters.
The Two Options
Outdoor: Driveway Pod A self-contained kitchen unit that sits on your driveway, similar in size and shape to a large trailer or caravan. Fully equipped with a hob, oven, fridge-freezer, microwave, sink, and often a washing machine. Connected to your water supply, drainage, and electricity via external hoses and cables.
Indoor: Capsule Kitchen A compact kitchen unit set up inside your home — in a spare room, garage, conservatory, or large hallway. Typically includes a hob, sink, fridge, and microwave. Connected to your home's internal water and power.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Driveway Pod (Outdoor) | Capsule Kitchen (Indoor) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From £80/week | From £80/week |
| Space needed | 4m x 2.5m driveway | 2m x 1.5m room |
| Appliances | Full kitchen (hob, oven, fridge-freezer, microwave, sink, sometimes washer) | Usually smaller (hob, fridge, microwave, sink) |
| Setup time | 1 to 2 hours | 1 to 2 hours |
| Water connection | Outdoor tap + drain | Kitchen or bathroom plumbing |
| Power | Standard 13A plug | Standard 13A plug |
| Weather dependent | You walk outside to use it | No weather issues |
| Noise and cooking smells | Separate from living space | Inside your home |
| Privacy from builders | Completely separate | May be near work area |
When to Choose a Driveway Pod
A driveway pod is the better choice if:
- You have a driveway or hard-standing area. The pod needs a flat surface of at least 4m x 2.5m.
- You want a full-size kitchen. Driveway pods typically have more equipment and more space than indoor units — a proper oven, a full fridge-freezer, and more worktop.
- You want cooking smells and mess out of the house. With builders already creating dust and disruption inside, having the kitchen completely separate is a big advantage.
- You have children. A driveway pod gives you a clean, safe space away from the building work. Children can eat, do homework, and hang out in the pod while work continues inside.
- Your renovation is extensive. If the builders need access to most of the ground floor, an indoor kitchen may be in the way. A driveway pod avoids this completely.
Potential downsides:
- You have to walk outside to use it — less convenient in heavy rain or at night.
- It takes up your driveway, so you may need to park elsewhere.
- Neighbours can see the pod on your driveway (though most people find this is not a real issue).
When to Choose an Indoor Capsule Kitchen
An indoor unit is the better choice if:
- You do not have a driveway. If you live in a flat, a terraced house without off-street parking, or a property with no suitable outdoor space, an indoor unit is your only option.
- You have a spare room, garage, or conservatory. You need an indoor space that is not being used for the renovation.
- You prefer not to go outside. If mobility is an issue, or you simply prefer having the kitchen inside, an indoor unit is more convenient.
- The renovation is limited to the kitchen only. If the rest of your home is unaffected, an indoor unit in a spare room can work well.
- You are elderly or have mobility issues. Walking outside to a driveway pod may be difficult, especially in wet or icy weather. See our guide for elderly parents →.
Potential downsides:
- Smaller and less well-equipped than driveway pods — often no oven, smaller fridge.
- Cooking smells and steam will be inside your home.
- The unit takes up a room that you might otherwise use during the renovation.
- Builders and the temporary kitchen share the same living space — can feel cramped.
What About a Garage?
Setting up a temporary kitchen in a garage is a popular middle ground. It is technically indoors (sheltered from weather) but separate from your main living space (no cooking smells in the house).
For this to work, you need:
- A garage that is dry, weatherproof, and has a power socket.
- Ideally, a water supply nearby (even a garden tap run through the garage wall).
- A drain nearby for waste water.
- Enough space — most garages are large enough.
Some temporary kitchen providers offer units specifically designed for garage installation. Ask when requesting quotes.
Cost Comparison
The weekly hire costs for driveway pods and indoor capsule kitchens are broadly similar — typically £50 to £100 per week for domestic units.
The difference is in what you get for the money:
- Driveway pods usually include more appliances and more space at the same price point.
- Indoor units may be slightly cheaper at the entry level but offer fewer appliances.
Delivery and collection costs are similar for both (typically £100 to £200 total).
For a full cost breakdown, see our temporary kitchen hire cost guide →.
What About Winter?
This is the most common concern about driveway pods. The good news is that most modern pods are:
- Fully insulated — walls, floor, and ceiling.
- Heated — built-in thermostat-controlled electric heater or gas heater.
- Weatherproof — sealed doors, windows, and roof.
Families who have used driveway pods in winter consistently report that the pod is warm, dry, and comfortable — some say it is warmer than their house during the renovation. The short walk outside is the only inconvenience, and most people adapt to it within a day or two.
That said, if you are particularly concerned about cold weather, an indoor unit eliminates this issue entirely.
Can You Switch?
If you start with one type and it is not working, most providers can arrange a swap. For example, if you hire a driveway pod and then realise you would prefer an indoor unit (or vice versa), contact your provider to discuss options. There may be an additional delivery charge, but it is usually straightforward.
Still Not Sure?
Tell us your situation → and we will recommend the best option based on your home, your renovation, and your needs. Free, no-obligation quotes.