When it comes to working with a kitchen designer to design your space it can be a little overwhelming.
You may have many questions like will the Kitchen Designer understand how I use my kitchen? Will their design be what I want? Will they listen to my needs? Will they design to what I can afford? All of these concerns are understandable, so let’s break it down.
Kitchen Designers usually have a passion for that they do. They love helping people with their design and listening to their needs. Most importantly, Kitchen Designers love solving problems to design a new functional kitchen space that will work for your family and lifestyle. They want to design a clever solution that you will be happy with. Most Kitchen Designers will offer their experienced advice to design to your needs.
Remember you are working with the designer so it will be an open conversation of ideas and should be an exciting, enjoyable experience.
Before booking a Kitchen Design appointment, we’ve come up with our 5 tips that you can do to get the best design and right solution for you.
1. Kitchen Budget
Have you decided on how much you can spend on your Kitchen? Everyone’s first thought is “I don’t know how much a new kitchen costs, that’s why I’m getting a design and quote done”. However, a new kitchen can cost as little or as much as you can afford to spend. Kitchen Designers can only design to your budget or an amount that you don’t wish to exceed. It’s crucial to the design as kitchen cabinetry and benchtops will range in price according to the quality and budget.
2. Put together a Must Have List
List all the must have things you need in your new kitchen. Your list should include things like cabinetry style, pantry, island bench, cutlery drawers, pot drawers, spice racks, handles, bins, benchtop type, appliances, accessories and anything else you would like. This list will help the Designer to understand your needs and design to them, wherever possible. Remember, not all items will be in the final design as it will depend on size of your space, the layout, functionality and of course budget.
3. Collect Photos of Kitchens
Put together a folder of photos from Instagram, Houzz or Pinterest that can assist the Kitchen Designer understand your style and likes. Photos often show what some cannot explain. Talking about kitchen styles can often be unclear, however a photo of a particular kitchen style can express the style you are trying to achieve.
4. Research your Kitchen Company Online
Search the internet to choose the right kitchen company. Read as much as you can about the company from their website, reading their advice and their projects with customers to see if their style and products fit your needs. Study their website, Instagram and Facebook beforehand to analyse if they are right for you.
Most importantly read their reviews on what others say. If they rank 2 or 3 out of 5 stars that may be telling you to steer clear!
5. List of Questions
As the Scouts say “Be Prepared”. It’s a good idea to make the most of your kitchen design appointment. Write down all your questions to ensure you get a good understand of their kitchen process and how the operate. Some questions might include:
- How does the design process work and how long from first design to be placed into production?
- What finishes do you think will suit the style of my home?
- Are you a design and supply company or do you have recommended trades as well
- How much experience does the Kitchen Designer and company have in the kitchen industry?
We hope this experienced kitchen advice is helpful before you attend your Kitchen Design Appointment.
Kitchen Shack offers a free one-on-one in-store design and quote Appointments in a showroom near you. Call us today to check our availability or book an appointment below.
