The kitchen is without a doubt the most complex room in your home. No other space has so many elements that all need to work harmoniously together in order to function well, keep you organized, and look good while doing it. So what’s the biggest mistake you can make when designing your own kitchen? It’s trying to do it yourself, without the help of a design professional.

The first question on everyone’s mind is, “but won’t hiring a designer cost me more?” And the answer to that is, yes. Design fees will definitely add to your budget, but what you get in return is value. Value is an entirely different beast than cost. Working with a professional means you will realize your kitchen’s fullest potential, and avoid mistakes that take away from the efficiency of your kitchen. Let me give you an example: If you decorate your living room, and a year later decide the sofa you selected isn’t the right size for your needs, you can replace it. But, if you design your kitchen yourself and put your sink in the wrong spot, and a year later realize you hate where it is, that can be a very very costly do-over.

There are so many technicalities that can completely ruin the flow and function in a kitchen - and those are the very things that a professional like me can help you get just right! For example, do you like to bake, or would you rather order from DoorDash every day? Do you need a place for people to gather? Where do the lights need to be placed to help you with tasks?

I can even help you avoid buying a much larger range than you need, decide between electric, gas, and dual-fuel, and I can give you the very best advice on which tile you should use and whether it should be just a backsplash or cover an entire wall.

Another advantage of working with a designer is that we think outside of the box. Everyone wants an open kitchen these days, so I know from my experience which walls to open up, when to bring in a structural engineer to make that happen safely, and when it’s best to start over.

Kitchens are just too complex to “wing it,” and it’s too expensive to correct mistakes. I advise homeowners to get a professional - an interior designer, a kitchen showroom, a contractor - to help in planning a kitchen renovation. It might make your re-do a little more expensive up front, but it’s the best money you’ll ever spend in the long run for your home!

Warmly,

Beth