Call In A Pro

Time to call in a pro!

You’ve done your homework and written your list. The first three points covered in the previous blogs have prepared you so you’re ready to get down to the nitty-gritty.  Go armed with your research as this will help an experienced expert make your dream a reality. (Another reason to be honest in your evaluations!)

Next big question to ask yourself:  “Who to ask?”

There are a number of options depending on your budget and your requirements.  In brief the following is a comprehensive list.  I’ll touch on the first two now and expand on the rest later.

1. Architects

2. Interior Designers

3. Kitchen Companies

4. Builders

5. Budget Option / Do-It-Yourself

An architect is relevant if you are doing a complex renovation or a new build is involved.  You may have already employed an architect.  They have a complete vision of your home and may have strong elements that they would like to see continued throughout your home to make it a cohesive and meaningful space.  After all you don’t want to drop a totally modern kitchen in a period restoration – or the reverse!  Be aware though that some architects don’t like to go into this amount of detail and may recommend you to a specialist or employ one as part of their firm.  Often, the basic outline is penciled in to get plans through council or to show you their ideas on the use of the space and how the house will flow.

An Interior Designer is potentially another minefield: there are ‘designers’ and ‘designers’!  Some specialise in decoration, styling and finishes but might ‘give-it-a-go’ and ‘design a kitchen’ for you.  (I’ve seen some interesting examples of that which have to be swiftly rectified.)  Other designers are specialists in interior work and some even call themselves Interior Architects now to differentiate them from the Designers who are more Decorators (not to be confused with a painter if you’re English…)  Phew!  Are you confused already?  An Interior Designer works closely with the architect and builder and has a great insight and understanding into the practicalities of a functioning kitchen as well as the flair to make it look fabulous!  Go for someone like that.

Both architects and interior designers will charge for their services but it is well worth your while.  They can save you money, time, anxiety, frustration and have all the knowledge and experience at their finger tips.  Some will give you names of joiners, go out to tender and even pass on the savings that you will get by going direct to the joiner, cabinet maker or kitchen manufacturer that they recommend.

Recommendations are best here and this is a time when friends, family and work colleagues are worth listening to.  Meet the architect or designer to make sure that you can work together and that you like their ideas.  Ask for references as well.  Remember it’s a collaboration between you that will ensure a successful outcome.