"What makes a designer kitchen? A designer."

      It is very obvious to me when a kitchen has been designed by a great interior designer, versus the average general contractor or fabricator.  There are 3 things that give it away:

1. It is DIFFERENT 

When I see a kitchen unlike any I have seen before (or will ever see again), I know that a great designer was involved.  That kitchen will stop you in your tracks and really make you LOOK. 

2.  It is COMPLEX

Whether Minimalist or Victorian, the design of a superior kitchen will involve many elements, both obvious and not obvious.  Your average contractor or even kitchen and bath fabricators will tend to have the design consist of three things---cabinets, countertops, and backsplashes.  The end result, regardless of price tag, usually looks bland and lifeless.  You wouldn’t buy a car based on whether it has four wheels and an engine.  You would look at the dozens of details that combine to produce a superior quality vehicle.  Engine/transmission quality, MPG, handling, aesthetic quality, extra technological features, etc.  Do you want a silver Corolla or an emerald green Aston Martin?  Hmmm.  I'd go with the Aston.  

A superior kitchen is very similar to a luxury vehicle.  There are many individual details that make it unique, such as cabinet orientation, cabinet material, countertop material and shape, backsplash type, lighting, flooring, ceiling design, color, additional seating, etc.  The design does not stop at eye level.  Which brings us to reason #3

3.  It is ENGAGING

An engaging kitchen is one that makes you feel good.  It has a visual energy that impacts the user in a positive way.  Your eye will be drawn throughout the space and whether you realize it or not, it engages you.  That is superior design.  Now, not everyone will enjoy the same design style, but that is where the designer comes in.  They are paid to make sure that your newly designed kitchen will be engaging for you!  A successful kitchen design will inspire you the moment you walk in every day.  A good interior designer will accept nothing less.

      Call a qualified interior designer before you start your kitchen project.  Get input on layout, materials, colors, and budget management, and save yourself loads of stress.  You can also hire an interior designer to help select all materials and coordinate the actual execution of the project.  Your end result will be a gorgeous kitchen that is like no other---perfect for YOU.  It is worth the investment, no question about it.  

How many people have this kitchen?  MILLIONS!!!  Every day do-it-yourselfers are opting for the same boring combination:  Red stained cabinets, black granite, and cheap mosaic tile backsplashes.  Boring, boring, boring! This kitchen is nice, but it does not excite or inspire.  It is not unique and is becoming less impressive every day for buyers.  Hire a designer, and avoid paying $70,000 for a kitchen that most of your neighbors have.

THIS kitchen is unique, complex, and engaging.  This is an excellent example of a design that is "outside the box". The overall design generates a thrilling mix of relaxation and inspiration.  This is how it should be.  If you want a "designer kitchen", there is only one thing to do:  Find your designer! 

See my other article What is a "Qualified Designer?" for guidance on finding the design professional that is perfect for you.  Or call 925-895-1336 to schedule an initial consultation, and I can help you achieve your dream kitchen!