Why you need a kitchen designer
Do you love watching home improvement shows as much as we do? Have you ever noticed how home improvement shows make their kitchen transformation look like presto magic 🪄…..beautiful kitchen reveal.
Pleasure Point kitchen remodel done by Alison Stanford of Elite Construction
But what really happens in a kitchen remodel? Is it as simple as picking tile, cabinets and new appliances and handing the project over to your trusty contractor? We wish! There are many elements like plumbing, lighting, and lots of spatial and work flow configurations that need to be decided. Next to your bedroom, the kitchen is the most used room in our homes. So before you hop on that home improvement website to place your order for cabinets or that speciality countertop, ask yourself…..Do I really want to go it alone?
A kitchen remodel will cost you anywhere between $40k to 100k depending on the size of your kitchen and the type of materials you choose. Hiring a kitchen designer will help you make the most of your time and money. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), 54% of consumers who have remodeled recently or are currently remodeling their kitchen used a designer to make the process go more smoothly.
What can you expect from your designer?
Making your kitchen work better for your family will be the top priority of your designer. According to a recent Houzz survey, when homeowners were asked what their top remodeling priorities were, 88% cited “improving design” and 81% cited “improving functionality”. Homeowners across the board are looking for a kitchen that works better than their current kitchen. Your designer will help you make the most efficient floor plan, and implement good lighting, smart kitchen technology if you desire, and the best ergonomic design for your space. The designer will also be able to guide you on material and appliance selection and be your knowledgeable go-between with your suppliers and contractor. This will help your project move more quickly and cost-effectively.
Some of the tasks your designer will help you with -
Product and material selections
Layout and design options
Creation of kitchen layout with 3d drawings
Kitchen measurement and cabinet selection
Coordination remodeling process
Supplier suggestions
Think of your kitchen designer as your partner.
You will be collaborating closely with them on the whole project. Your designer will not only find out your taste in countertops and faucets but also how your kitchen is used. It is important that you are honest and upfront about your vision, your budget, the level of involvement you want to have in the remodel process and how you use your kitchen so your designer can best help you create the kitchen that meets your personal needs and wants.
When your designer has a clear picture of your desired kitchen, they will began creating measurements and possible layouts to present to you. It is your job to look the plans over carefully and ask questions. Think about your wants and how you will use this space. This is the time to make any changes. Not after cabinets have been ordered. Also, ask questions about options and how the options you are considering will impact your budget. Options are a big driver for the overall expense of a kitchen remodel.
Types of Kitchen Designers -
The level of designer experience you need depends on the complexity of your kitchen remodel. Designers have varying degrees of expertise. The best designers have a degree in Interior Design and/or a certification from NKBA or NSID. These designers have undergone extensive training such as a required number of years of full-time design experience as well as knowledge of construction, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Certified kitchen designers must complete a development program, pass an exam and meet continuing education requirements to maintain their certifications.
Local home improvement stores and cabinet dealers generally offer design services along with your purchase or for a nominal fee. The person may be able to help you arrange and fit your cabinetry into the existing space. But without additional education, these services are probably not going to be specialized enough to help with structural changes or extensive design changes. Also keep in mind, the “designer” is most often a salesperson first and a designer second.
Kitchen showrooms and professional design centers can provide a higher level of service than a big box store. They often have certified designers on staff. The downside would be their services are usually limited to the products they sell and they will not be in the picture as a go-between with your contractor during your project.
Remodeling a kitchen is an expensive and costly endeavor. Ensuring that you have the right design can minimize complications and dramatically increase your chances of getting the kitchen you want while staying within your budget. No matter how well planned your kitchen remodel is, there will be problems. Not everything will go as anticipated. It’s important to have someone advocating for you and keeping your project on track. Hiring a kitchen designer is one of the best ways to reach your desired outcome. You can get your kitchen designed in many places but you’ll get the most personal attention and comprehensive serviced from a certified kitchen designer.
