Finding the right kitchen designer

Written by Amy Whittle

A professional kitchen designer focuses on that heavily-trafficked area of your home. With the right level of experience, the designer is often knowledgeable about current trends, design conventions, and kitchen design advancements.

Choosing a kitchen designer

Kitchen designers are typically trained as interior designers or architects. They may be licensed to work with most kitchen projects, but they may need to work alongside a licensed architect if there are significant alterations to the structure of the house.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a kitchen designer is that the professional has a portfolio to review. Each designer should offer images of a few projects to demonstrate his ability. Portfolio clips should include pictures of the completed kitchen, renderings, and technical blueprints.

The designer should also be comfortable discussing their design process and provide a list of references you can contact.

Working with a kitchen designer

Design professionals should make you comfortable when discussing your kitchen plans. They should not only listen to your ideas but offer suggestions for your kitchen that you may have not considered. Designers should be knowledgeable about your kitchen’s resale value, if it’s appropriate for the neighborhood and your house, and any current kitchen design trends.

A kitchen designer will also have access to cabinetry, flooring, and appliances that are not directly available to consumers. This may include designer items as well as "green" appliances that save energy and are friendly to the environment.

Setting a budget

A good kitchen designer will do their best to keep your kitchen remodeling expectations within your budget parameters. It’s important to clearly state what you can afford to spend, as well as when you expect it to be finished. You don’t want to make any revisions that could take up more of the designer’s time and increase the total costs of the project. From there, the designer will determine if your expectations for the kitchen will fit your budget, and where you can cut corners to decrease costs. Although designers are often paid a percentage of the total cost of the project, a talented designer can suggest clever design choices and carefully sourced materials. It may put less money in their pockets, but goes a longer way to keeping the customer happy which can ultimately lead to more future business.

Some contemporary designers have abandoned this pricing structure altogether and instead charge a flat rate per project. Make sure to get all details of the designer’s fees before agreeing to work together.

Want to meet with a kitchen designer in your area? Simply complete our quick and easy request for kitchen remodeling price quotes, and we’ll find the right companies who will contact you about your needs.