Kitchen Designer

Kitchen Designers work with you to determine your family's lifestyle, design preferences, and budget. Since they specialize in kitchen design, they are very familiar with the capabilities of many products and new innovations. Initially, he or she will evaluate your goals, including how you plan to utilize your new kitchen. If you have gathered pictures and completed your questionnaires and worksheets, take them all with you when you meet with your Kitchen Designer. This will give the designer a good idea where to start and save you both a lot of time.

Like an architect, he or she can draft a kitchen floor plan that contractors and cabinet installers will use. In addition, your Kitchen Designer can work with you on your selections for cabinetry, countertops, flooring, appliances, ventilation, and lighting. Some kitchen designers may also coordinate the delivery and installation of some or all of these products, while others expect you (or your contractor) to monitor the delivery and installer's schedule--make sure you know who is in charge of each element.

A Kitchen Designer may be independent or associated with a showroom or cabinet-maker--their fees will vary accordingly. As an independent, they may work on a consulting basis for a set or hourly design fee. If associated, they may work on an hourly design fee or a retainer fee that may be applied to the cabinet order. He or she may also be a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD). The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) administers this certification process. It includes passing a written test, a specified amount of education, and proof of financial stability and on the job experience.

You can find a Kitchen Designer through the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) (800) 843-6522. You may also find a Kitchen Designer by visiting kitchen cabinet showrooms, local cabinet-makers, or home centers. On the web, you can log on to ImproveNet.com, or linking to "Find a Design Professional" at Homeportfolio.com. Another option is to utilize the on-line (fee-based) consultation services of KitchenQuest.com.