Redesigning your kitchen is an exciting project, but it can easily become an overwhelming and stressful one. Working with a professional kitchen designer can provide numerous benefits. A pro can help you make the best choices based on your lifestyle, budget and style preferences and take much of the stress away from the process.
Before starting your kitchen redesign, you’ll want to ask potential designers a few key questions to ensure the designer you choose to work with has the right background and experience for your project. Here are 5 questions to ask that will help you hire the best designer based on your needs and personality.
#1: What are Your Qualifications?
All kitchen designers aren’t created equal and you’ll want to be sure to find out the specific qualifications of any designer you’re considering working with. Find out how long they’ve been in the industry, what specific experience they have, what certifications they have or courses they’ve taken and what they do to stay current on the latest kitchen design trends and products. Be sure to ask for pictures of their previous work!
#2: How Much Input Will I Have?
Any truly professional kitchen designer will be focused on creating a space that meets your needs. You want to work with someone who takes the time to find out your preferences and desires—and who welcomes and encourages your input, not just at the start of the project but all throughout.
#3: Can You Work Within My Budget?
Be upfront with your designer about your budget. Discuss the ideas you have for your remodel and ask the designer for her honest opinion about whether or not your ideal redesign is feasible based on your budget. By disclosing your budget early on, you’ll allow your designer to achieve the look you want with options for kitchen cabinets, countertops and other items that are within your budget.
You’ll want a designer you can trust and who won’t try to persuade you—or make you feel that you need to—spend more than you’ve budgeted.
#4: Do You Have References?
Find out how many projects similar to yours the designer has done in the past and don’t be afraid to ask for references. The designer should be open and more than happy to provide you with a few references you can contact to find out what they thought about the designer’s work and how it was to work with him.
#5: How Many Options and Ideas Will I Receive and in What Format?
When looking for a designer, you want someone who is open-minded and willing to show you different options. A kitchen remodel is a big endeavor and you want to be comfortable knowing that your designer will happily work with you through every aspect of your design and tailor it until it’s right for you.
At Willow Lane Cabinetry, you’ll find our professional designers are among the best in the industry. Sign up for a free online kitchen design today. You’ll love working with our designers!