In many ways, it has never been easier to design a kitchen than it is right now. Most of the biggest kitchen companies have their own online planners, allowing you to place their products in your space. There are also multiple online interior design tools that aim to help you perfect how the space will look.
But while some of these programs can be easy to use, many are much more complicated than they first seem. Some are also not particularly accurate, which can create issues when it comes time to fit your new kitchen. And, while how a kitchen looks is important, how it functions is even more critical.
This is why we always recommend working with an experienced designer when planning a kitchen upgrade. They can help you think through all the little details and truly tailor a design to your needs. They can also help you manage your budget and come up with creative ways to get the look you want.
The benefits of using an experienced kitchen designer
There are several reasons it’s worth working with an experienced designer when planning your new kitchen. This includes:
- They will focus on function: When you’re doing your own design, it’s easy to get caught up on the aesthetic choices. While these are important, they mean little if the overall design isn’t particularly practical. An experienced designer will understand this and take the time to make sure your plans match how you want to live.
- They will refine your design: A kitchen designer’s job is to take your ideas and make them better. Even if you have a clear vision of what you want, an experienced designer should still be able to add value. They should also encourage you to think about the details that you would normally overlook – like storage options, benchtop space, appliance placement and working zones.
- They will be able to identify potential issues: Having been through the process many times, an experienced designer will know what the watchpoints are. This means they can help you plan ahead and avoid being held up by common mistakes and problems with the design. They should also be able to share lessons learnt from previous clients and use these to help improve your design.
- They will look for suitable savings: Most kitchen designers have significant experience working within a limited budget. As such, they’ll know where to spend money and where you can cut costs without impacting the end result. They should also be able to recommend more cost-effective alternatives, so you can achieve the look you want for less.
- They will help you plan the whole project: Coming up with the design is only one small part of managing a kitchen renovation. Once you have your design, you then need to order materials, arrange trades, and oversee the actual work. A good kitchen designer will help you with all this, outlining the process and recommending installers to help you along the way.
Want to discuss this further?
If you’re planning to update your kitchen and would like some expert advice, give Smart Kitchen a call. Our experienced team can work with you to tailor a design to suit your space, your style, and your family. We also offer a free in-store design consultation service and can help make sure you’re getting the most from your budget.