· Experience and expertise in kitchen design. Nearly every
contractor will tell you they do kitchens. However, kitchen remodeling
encompasses much more than installation. It is vitally important that
your kitchen specialist be skilled and knowledgeable in pulling together
an efficient, aesthetically-pleasing design that blends into your life.
Be wary of the “kitchen specialist” who implements exactly what you’ve
asked for without asking any questions or making recommendations –
someone with knowledge and experience should be able to help you think
outside the box and create something truly special.
· Significant up-front time investment. Beware the contractor
who comes to your home, measures a few things, and disappears until it’s
time for installation. A well-planned kitchen remodel requires detailed
measurements and familiarity with the kitchen space. No two houses are
exactly alike – each has unique characteristics and quirks. A good
kitchen specialist should be planning with your house in mind,
not a mental image that may not reflect the unique character of your
home.
· Questions, Questions, Questions! Don’t miss out on this
extremely vital step in the kitchen remodeling process! In order for a
kitchen design specialist to give you the job you’re looking for, he or
she should spend time in your kitchen asking questions about your
preferences and lifestyle so that the finished project can reflect both.
Remember, you and your kitchen specialist are a team, and your input
should figure prominently into the finished project!
· A broad spectrum of suggestions. Maybe you have a clear idea
of what you want your new kitchen to be, or maybe you haven’t gotten
past that great refrigerator you saw on your last visit to an appliance
store. Either way, you should be able to rely on your kitchen specialist
for suggestions and advice throughout the planning process. While it is
not generally in the best interest of any contractor bidding on a job to
raise the project cost, a good contractor should still point out changes
or recommendations that will improve the finished project.
