How To Prepare For Your Kitchen & Bath Designer Consultation
- Kitchens By Design
- Jun 13
- 4 min read
Kitchen and bath remodeling is a fun idea, but once you get down to business it can seem like an intimidating task to accomplish. There are so many options out there, from vendors to products, that it can feel a little like you don’t know where to begin. Maybe your house doesn’t have your dreamy, luxurious wetroom. Or you are tired of looking at the same dark, outdated kitchen cabinets that you have secretly - or not so secretly - hated since you bought your house 20 years ago. Who should you make your first appointment with? How much research is too much research? Luckily, we have (some) of the answers. Below are some FAQ’s that you may have when starting the search for your dream team.
Q: When in the remodel process should I see a designer?
A: At the very beginning. Whether you have a solid vision of what you want your remodeled space to look like or you have absolutely no idea where to start, it does not matter. Don't spend too much time researching. Get a general idea of where you should go and potentially what products you want to look at, then make an appointment with a designer or showroom. A designer will be able to help you hone in on exactly what kind of space you are looking to create, as well as recommend products that fit your personal aesthetic and budget. Finding the right designer for you and your project is integral to the success of your remodel, so don’t be afraid to compare options! At Kitchens By Design, we offer complimentary initial consultations where we walk you through the products we have to offer that fit your vision. Our designers will also put together complimentary designs for you to choose from if you decide to move forward with Kitchens By Design.
Q: How should I prepare for my meeting with a designer or showroom?
A: If you have measurements of your space, bring them! Otherwise photos and/or videos are a good option. Make sure to document a few different angles so your designer has a good idea of your layout. Make a list of things in your current space that aren’t working for you. Some things to consider are the way your cabinets close, if the fit of your appliances isn’t quite right, or how much shelving space is available inside your cabinets. There are a myriad of other aesthetic issues to consider, such as the lighting; how many windows do you have, and would you like more? Are you open to removing a wall to make more space? Also, make sure to bring any inspiration pictures you have! Keep in mind that pictures of dream spaces are sources of inspiration, not duplication. It is practically impossible to do an exact color match, and many things will look slightly different both in the showroom and in your home due to the change in lighting.Â
Q: Should I visit more than one showroom?
A: While it does not hurt to compare your options, we recommend doing some initial online research to figure out which place may be the best fit for you. Put together a list and make a fun adventure out of it! Different showrooms can carry different products that other locations do not have. For example, Kitchens By Design is one of only two showrooms in Rhode Island that offers the exclusive Dura Supreme cabinetry line. Read our Dura Supreme vendor highlight here! We carry a variety of countertop, cabinetry, and tile lines that fit a wide range of budgets and design aesthetics.
Q: What questions should I ask my designer during our first consultation?
A: Designers that specialize in kitchen and bath design are more involved than a regular interior designer. For example, they will be more familiar with cabinet brands and the availability of certain features - such as accessories or finishes - as well as general functionality. You might think all cabinets are made the same, but that certainly is not the case! Below are a few questions you can add to your list before you head to your meeting.
Make sure you ask about lead times (how long your order will take to ship) for certain products. If you have a specific deadline in mind, communicate that to your designer so they can make the appropriate product recommendations. For example, cabinets can take up to 3-8 weeks to ship, depending on the manufacturer.
Ask if they have opinions on appliance sizes and how they will impact your space. If you have a specific appliance in mind, such as a fridge, show your designer as the measurements may change the layout of your remodel.
Countertop materials will have different care requirements and aging characteristics. Ask your designer what they recommend for your particular lifestyle and personal design choices.
When you are planning your kitchen and bath remodeling project, there are so many things to consider that you may not know where to start. Choosing your designer is one of the most - if not the most - important step in the process. The right designer will be able to coordinate your thoughts and interpret your vision in a way that works for you. Stop by Kitchens By Design to see if we are the perfect fit!