In deciding on hiring a professional kitchen designer there are 5 things to keep in mind.
A good designer is able to work with you to create the design that will both fit your wants and needs and that squares with your budget.
1. How Much Are You Willing To Spend?
Level with the designer. How much you will be willing to spend on your kitchen design project? Let the designer know what you would feel comfortable spending and this way you can insure that the designer and contractor will have a clear direction on where to go with the project and not go overboard. They will have a good idea of the limits when drawing up plans and selecting materials.
2. How Much Time Are You Willing To Devote?
You need to consider what your personal needs are and if you will be able to work around the necessary construction in your kitchen. By consulting with an experienced kitchen designer you can get a good idea of how long your kitchen design project will take by providing a timeline that your family can plan around.
3. What Style Are You Planning For Your Kitchen Design Project?
You want to give the kitchen designer as much information as possible. Do some research before your meeting such as looking at design magazines and websites to get an idea of what style and elements you would like to see in your kitchen. Visit design showrooms, check out products to touch & feel and websites like Pinterest to keep all your inspo together.
What are your likes and dislikes regarding colour and styles? Make a scrapbook with clips from the magazines, as well as samples of cupboards, tile and countertops. Use these to show the kitchen designer what your vision is for the new kitchen. Also bring a list of questions for your kitchen designer.
4. How Do You Use Your Kitchen?
You need to be prepared for questions that a kitchen designer will ask you when you first meet with them. Such as:
- Will you be doing a lot of entertaining with family and friends?
- Is your family busy during the week with lots of activities?
- Find out what other family members have for thoughts and ideas.
5. How To Prepare For Your Kitchen Design Project
You will need to prepare for the disruption that will be caused by this project. But, with the right planning you can make the project run as smoothly and a quickly as possible.
Make sure that the kitchen and the living area are separated for both safety reasons and to stay out of the way of the contractor and his crew. You might have to set up a temporary kitchen in another room of the house. You can block off open concept areas with hanging plastic. What time of the year you schedule a kitchen design project can make it easier on everyone since in the warmer months it is possible to eat and cook outdoors.
Are you planning a kitchen Reno anytime soon? I have a few ideas to switch up in my kitchen, so we're saving for that project down the line. We all need more storage, so do some planning and shoot me a message if you need help. I am not a kitchen expert, but I know a few and can point you in the right direction!