Designer Tips

Wants, needs and possibilities – turning dreams into reality

Every successful project begins with a good design. And every good design starts with a dream and reality. You’re the one with the dream, and the designer helps turn that dream into reality. Here are some designer tips for your dream kitchen:

It is what it is - Unless you’re designing your home from scratch, you have to work with the size and shape of the room. That means, the island you always dreamed of may not be possible. Is your room open concept or enclosed? Is it an eat-in kitchen? Size and shape are the first design considerations.

Style and flow – Does the look you want for your new kitchen flow with the overall style of your house and the feel of your home’s interior? A home is made up of more than just one room and harmony makes a house a home.

Budget – Consider the value of your home, the cost of the work, and the return on investment. Once you’ve determined the budget, include all of the bells and whistles in your design. It’s easier to eliminate some if you need to and more difficult to incorporate new elements into the design.

Needs assessment – Is your kitchen the heart of the home, a gathering place, or just somewhere to prepare the means and wash up? Design your room with its function in mind so that everything is accessible and practical. 

Storage – For every need, there is a storage option out there. This is where an experienced designer adds value.

Materials – With your budget and design in mind, determine what materials you want for the cabinetry, countertop, flooring, backsplash, sink and taps. Consider your appliances in the overall design. And when it comes to cabinetry, cheap ones won’t last long. Replacing them means time and materials.

Electrical – Lighting is key to the look and functionality of your kitchen and should never be an afterthought. Having enough electrical outlets in the right places is something you need to determine before the kitchen is installed.

Hire a designer – Be willing to pay a reputable designer for his or her skill. Designers may consider the charge a ‘retainer’ and subtract it from the quoted price if they get the job. If you shop a design around, make sure you’re quoted for the same work, construction, materials, specifications, etc. A lower quote may include cheaper materials and fewer options, and corners may be cut.