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5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Hiring a Kitchen Designer

  • Jessica
  • 6 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Designing a kitchen is exciting—but also full of surprises. After going through the process myself, I realized there were a few key things I wish I had known before I got started. Whether you're about to renovate or just dreaming of your future kitchen, these tips can save you time, money, and headaches.

Adding Character
White kitchens are clean and classic, but they can also feel a little sterile if you're not careful. If you’re dreaming of a space that feels truly “you,” spend time exploring your style. Pinterest boards and inspiration galleries are a great place to start. Mix materials, add color, or include custom touches that bring warmth and personality to your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to break out of the all-white box.
Codes Matter
Everyone wants an island—but not every kitchen can have one. Building codes dictate things like clearances, airflow, and outlet placement. They're not just red tape—they ensure your kitchen is safe, comfortable, and functional. A good designer knows these codes inside and out, so trust their guidance. If they advise against a particular layout, it’s for a good reason.
Appliances Come First
Before picking out cabinets or choosing the perfect countertop, start with your appliances. They’re the biggest, most-used pieces in your kitchen, and their placement directly impacts the layout. A thoughtful appliance plan ensures better workflow and helps your designer plan for plumbing and electrical needs early on, saving you from expensive changes later. Prioritizing appliances first sets the foundation for a kitchen that works as well as it looks.
Pump Up the Budget
I went in thinking I could keep my renovation relatively low-cost. But once I walked through my wish list with the designer—and they pointed out existing issues—I quickly realized I needed to triple my original budget. A realistic budget makes a huge difference. It helps you plan better, manage expectations, and ensures you get the features and quality you really want. Leave room for the unexpected—it’s worth it.
The 5 Kitchen Zones
A well-designed kitchen isn’t just pretty—it functions like a finely tuned machine. Organizing your kitchen into five key zones can make cooking easier and more efficient. A trained designer already knows how to create these zones:

  • Cooking Zone: This is where the magic happens—your oven, cooktop, and microwave live here.

  • Cleaning Zone: The sink, dishwasher, and trash can work together to handle cleanup.

  • Food Storage Zone: Your fridge, pantry, and cabinets for dry goods form your supply station.

  • Storage Zone: Home to your pots, pans, utensils, and dishware—everything you need at your fingertips.

  • Prep Zone: Spacious countertops where all the slicing, dicing, and mixing takes place.


Final Thought:

Designing a kitchen is a big investment, and hiring a designer can make all the difference. With the right prep, a realistic budget, and a solid understanding of how your kitchen should function, you’ll be set up for success—and a space you’ll love for years to come. That's where Davis Kitchen and Tile comes in. Our designers are trained and knowledgeable on codes, zones, and aesthetics! Give us a call for a free consultation - 304-296-3243.

 
 
 

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