For most homeowners looking to renovate their spaces, the kitchen is at the top of the list. It’s one of the rooms we spend the most time in and is a real workhorse of the house. So, it needs to function well while looking great.
But knowing where to start is overwhelming, especially when considering how many decisions there are to make and how permanent most things are in a kitchen.
Having a design consultation with a pro can completely change your experience. Just be sure to follow these tips to get the most out of your appointment.
Narrow Down Your Design Style Before
Before you take any steps toward planning a kitchen remodel, you need to know your design style. This is going to help with every aspect of the project moving forward.
This doesn’t mean you need to know which finishes you prefer. It means understanding the general look you gravitate toward and what style the rest of your home is designed in so the kitchen doesn’t feel out of place.
Knowing your style will also help narrow down your choices from the very beginning.
Go Over the Remodel Budget
The next step before a meeting should be to review your budget. This isn’t one of the fun parts of the design process, but it’s one of the most important.
Having a budget number ahead of your meeting will help ensure you stay on track. The design expert will know what is and isn’t possible in the project. Without this figure, you may have to change some of your choices later on.
Bring Finalized Decisions to the Meeting
Sometimes, a kitchen remodel doesn’t necessarily mean everything is changing. In fact, there are often many things that are staying from the previous design. Be sure to bring any finalized decisions or materials to your consultation.
This can include things like your wall paint color, flooring, or appliances that will stay the same. Knowing these things means you and the designer are on the same page.
It’s a key element to ensuring the design you create comes to life as you envisioned it.
Start With the Cabinet Layout Plan
Be prepared to start your design consultation by reviewing your kitchen layout. This is the first step, whether you’re keeping it the same or making some changes in the remodel.
It’s really the only way to know what types of cabinets you’ll need before you make your selection.
If you’re changing the arrangement, be sure to think about the workflow of the space. This part of the process will mainly be about the function and ensuring your kitchen works well for you.
Consider All of the Details
A major part of creating a kitchen design is the cabinets. They take up the most space and are the foundation for the whole room, but they aren’t everything.
It’s important to ensure you’re considering all the details during your consultation. Let the designer know your thoughts about backsplash, counters, and lighting. And, if you need ideas for these areas, ask the designer for suggestions.
Try to keep the big picture in mind as you’re making decisions, so you have a cohesive room in the end.
Look For Functional Options
Obviously, you want your kitchen design to look amazing. There’s nothing like walking into a gorgeous space every day, but be sure to focus on the functional elements, too.
A huge benefit of custom cabinets is adding some kitchen organization to the space. As you’re designing, think about the things you have in your kitchen and where you like to keep them. This thought process will help you keep your kitchen nice and clean when you move in!
Discuss How You Plan to Use the Space
While the primary uses of a kitchen are universal, every family uses this space a little differently.
It’s a good idea to give your designer a peek into how your family plans to use their new kitchen. Designing a kitchen for hosting is very different than designing one for simple family dinners.
The things you often cook in your kitchen will also make a big difference in how you set up your new kitchen design.
Be Open to Suggestions
As you start to make decisions for your kitchen, make sure you’re staying open to suggestions from your designer. Too many homeowners get caught up in the process and think they have to do it all on their own. There’s a reason you’re bringing in a pro, so take advantage of their expertise.
It’s a good idea to ask for a couple of options they think would work for some selections. Then, you have a smaller selection, and each will work in your space.
Ask About Seeing the Whole Design Together
One of the hardest parts about any remodel is making sure everything will work together. It’s easy to get focused on each individual thing instead of the room as a whole.
Seeing everything together can make a huge difference in loving your design. Ask your designer if they can get you a rendering or mood board with your selections. This can also help you notice things that aren’t working in the design.
Making a Design Consultation Productive
Working with a kitchen design expert is the best way to know you’ll love your new kitchen. Their advice and perspective are priceless.
The design consultation is a great place to start bringing your vision together. Following these tips will help make sure you have a productive meeting and feel good about where your design is headed.
At noblessa, we truly care about making each of our clients’ kitchens a dream. Our high-quality products and knowledgeable experts bring everything together to exceed expectations. Schedule a consultation today and start dreaming!