How often have you heard that a Do-It-Yourself kitchen renovation ended well? Most people do not realize everything that goes into a successful kitchen remodel, from planning to scheduling to procuring fixtures and finishes. The details can be overwhelming for the average homeowner. It can be a recipe for disaster…

The benefits of working with a professional kitchen designer far outweigh the drawbacks. (Wonder how to find a reputable kitchen designer? Read our brochure at the end of this blog post!)

Here are the top five benefits of working with a professional kitchen designer:

Benefit #1:Kitchen professionals understand the planning process that includes meeting with homeowners, measuring spaces, taking inventory of items in the kitchen, outlining the project scope, and creating preliminary budgets and design schemes.

The KitchenVisions team calls this phase Define. We collaborate with clients to figure out all of the design challenges and how to solve them. Prospective clients fill out a questionnaire to give us (and them) insight into their preferences.

Benefit #2:Certified kitchen professionals are trained in creating effective layouts and keep up to date on design trends. They have access to resources for cabinetry, countertops and tile, appliances, fixtures, finishes and every element needed in the kitchen (or bath, or other residential rooms). Based on style choices – modern, transitional or new traditional – designs are presented.

The KitchenVisions team calls this phase Design. We present 3D schematics with elevations and placement of electrical and plumbing. Most DIYers don’t have the skills to handle this aspect of a renovation.

Benefit #3:Professional kitchen designers learn the fundamentals of project management including securing permits, hiring subcontractors, scheduling and overseeing installations. Some of the costliest mistakes happen during this phase of a kitchen remodel. 

The KitchenVisions team calls this phase Deliver. We connect our clients with the best contractors and subcontractors to construct their project. Our team offers a proven process to take our clients through the renovation project with checklists and detailed communication. The KitchenVisions team makes sure that the intent of the client and designer is realized and that the integrity of the design is executed as planned.

Benefit # 4:Kitchen professionals are insured and cover themselves in case anything goes awry. Signing a contract protects both the professional and the homeowner. Most contracts spell out the scope and provide for mediation and other remedies if problems occur. What recourse do DIYers have if they make a mistake or construction doesn’t go well? 

Benefit #5: Working with a professional kitchen designer saves homeowners time and, often money, by creating and sticking to a budget. 

The results speak for themselves. Professionals produce consistently outstanding results. DIYers have to be quite experienced to match the creative solutions offered by pros. Although we think HGTV is fun to watch, it has created a misleading perception that home projects are fast and easy. The professionals we know will tell you that they work hard to transform their clients’ homes into beautiful and functional spaces they love.