Hiring a Designer for Your Kitchen Remodel, By Pattie Hughes

Planning a designer kitchen remodel is a big job. But before you meet with a kitchen designer, consider what you like in terms of style. Make sure the design will be functional. How much do you entertain or cook? Think about the type of appliances and basic kitchen designs you like best.

Do some research to get ideas. Visit model homes or kitchen showrooms for inspiration. Look in design magazines and product brochures. Browse the internet for kitchen remodeling ideas. When you see something you like, cut out pictures, take notes, and collect color and fabric swatches. Keep these all in a file and show it to your designer.

Set a Realistic Budget

Before meeting with a kitchen designer, set a budget for your project - and be realistic! Get an idea of what things cost. Visit showrooms and browse through product catalogs to get a general idea of prices. A complete kitchen remodel, including cabinets and appliances can cost between $20,000 and $50,000.

Bring in a pro

There are many good reasons to hire a professional kitchen designer:

• They can help with layout, space planning and lighting
• Professionals often have access to more options in terms of flooring, fabric and furniture than you will be able to find on your own
• A professional will design a style and color scheme that will be cohesive - you will be sure to have a perfectly decorated room
• The designer will order and coordinate delivery and installation of all purchases
• He or she will have reliable professionals for installation, saving you the headache of hiring your own contractors

A good professional will listen to your ideas and concerns.

Talk to a few designers before choosing one for your project. You want one that is easy to communicate with. A good kitchen design professional will listen to your ideas and concerns. Avoid any designers that dismiss your wishes and want to take complete control of the project. This should be a partnership, so pick someone who is willing to work cooperatively with you.

Allow Six to Eight Weeks

To get the most for your money, hire a kitchen designer that specializes in kitchens and bathrooms. This will ensure the person you choose is knowledgeable in this area. Many belong to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).

Most will ask you to pay a retainer. Once this is paid, the designer will draw up plans. When the plans are finished, you will meet for your approval. You will go over selections for paint, appliances, cabinets, flooring and fabric. You can either shop with your designer or meet after she shops for you. The typical time frame for completion is six to eight weeks.

Planning Your Designer Kitchen

Cabinets and appliances are the most expensive part of any kitchen remodeling project. Spend some time looking at a variety of styles and designs in both cabinets and appliances. You want something that will go well with the overall design of your home. For kitchen cabinet and design ideas, visit www.kitchen-cabinets-design.com.

Every room has a focal point. In the kitchen, this is often an island or sink area. Determine the focal point with your designer. This choice will guide other choices for fixtures, colors, lighting and fabrics. The professional kitchen designer will balance all these elements around the focal point.