Finding the right kitchen designer doesn't have to be challenging
In step one of the design process, we contemplated how the layout, style, and purpose of your kitchen fits with the rest of your house. Step two focused on identifying priorities, seeking opportunities to optimize your budget, and pulling together a big picture plan. Step three helped you identify a kitchen style.
Step four of the design process focuses on selecting a professional kitchen designer. Hiring a kitchen designer in most cases will be money well spent. Beyond just assisting you through the myriad of decisions related to your remodel, a designer can introduce fashion-forward colors and finishes that will keep your kitchen looking fresh and up-to-date for years to come. Even better, professional designers are experts at assessing the needs of homeowners and planning out spaces that provide the storage, functionality, and configuration that will make a renovation a successful one. Their contributions can help bring the project to completion on time and within budget.
When you hire a kitchen designer, you have two choices: A designer who focuses just on design, or one who works as a contractor and will handle the entire project. If you choose a designer who specializes in just design, you will be responsible for choosing a contractor to implement the design – although the designer may be able to provide a list of recommended firms.
Don't be shy. Interview a number of designers, and don't be afraid to ask questions about their experience, working process, and qualifications. The following are some key pieces of information you should take into consideration when choosing your kitchen designer.
Determine qualifications
Not everyone who claims to be a kitchen designer has the experience and credentials to back up that statement. Many professional designers have certifications from trade organizations focused on providing training for kitchen and bath specialists. A good designer is a knowledgeable designer, so look for someone who regularly attends education sessions and industry trade shows to keep up-to-date with the latest techniques, products, and styles.
Chat with past clients
If you have friends or family who had a great experience working with a kitchen designer, fantastic. If not, ask the designer if you can speak with a recent client or two about their experience. This isn't just about verifying that the designer performed his or her duties; it's a helpful way to get another perspective on how the process and interaction worked over the duration of the project.
Identify your role
The ideal design for a client's home isn't what is best for the designer, but what is best for you. It's important that even though you're handing off some of the planning and design choices to a professional, you remain an integral part of the planning process.
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