“What was really challenging for me, in the kitchen renovation process, was finding examples or inspiration pictures to share with our kitchen designer.” Hayleigh is a first time homeowner and a busy parent, with four children under the age of 12. “Every kitchen design I found on Instagram or Pinterest – it’s all very perfect. Everything’s pristine and tidy. And maybe some people like that, but it stresses me out. I don’t want a kitchen like that. I want our kitchen to look like people actually live in the house. A space that’s functional and also fun. Not somewhere where I’m constantly cleaning – on top of the cleaning I am constantly doing.”
Kitchen Design for the Real World: Choosing a Designer Who Gets You
“What I found when going through the process of choosing a kitchen designer is that you have to really be willing to wait until you find the one that listens,” Hayleigh laughed. “Good thing I am a Mom, and have the ability to say No. Some designers – every kitchen they work on looks exactly the same, and they’re nice, but they’re what that designer likes in a kitchen. I chose our kitchen designer based on the fact their portfolio showed a variety of kitchens, each one tailored to fit the house and family.”
What are the qualities of a good kitchen designer?
The ability to listen: As our homeowner explained, having a kitchen designer that will listen to your individual family needs and design preferences is essential.
Proven professional excellence: Look at the kitchen designer’s portfolio. Are the kitchens attractive, inviting spaces? Is the work of a caliber that you’d like for your own home?
A team to make it happen: A smart way to streamline the kitchen renovation process is to choose a Design Build contractor. Because the kitchen designer and the kitchen builders are on the same team, the work goes faster and costs less.