HOW TO: Replace existing WordPress installation with one from subdirectory?

Hi there

I want to build a new site. There is currently an existing WP installation on the server, but it is riddled with cumbersome plugins, media and edited files, making trying to rework it a nightmare.

I want to know if I can install a clean WP on a subfoler, develop the new site and then once its ready replace the old WP site with the one from the subfoler.

I don’t want to import the clean WP into the old WP, as the old WP is essentially corrupted.

Can someone guide me on how to go about this?

Thanks in advance.