How It Works
And What I Can Do For You
It's All In The Details
Transforming your kitchen into a new highly functional and inviting place to cook and enjoy starts with asking all the right questions and intently listening to your needs and wants. That’s what I’m all about – it’s not my kitchen in your house, it’s uniquely yours, tailor fit to what you need and want, works with your home and fits your budget.
Making It Easy For You
Doing a kitchen or bath yourself might turn out just fine, but it’s very easy to make expensive mistakes – that’s why I say a kitchen designer pays for herself. Hiring a qualified and experienced kitchen designer makes the whole process easy for you – no more guessing, no wondering if you’re “doing it right”, no mistakes, resulting in a beautifully finished kitchen or bath exactly how you want it.
Getting What You Want
My aim is to help you visualize your new kitchen as clearly as possible, explore all the relevant options and help you make informed decisions. I care deeply about your comfort level during the entire process and clear communications are essential. When you move into your new kitchen I want you to feel like you got everything you wanted, and you’re so happy with the results you want to shout it out and show it off!
Here's What I Can Do For You
Plus a general outline of the process
- Let’s start with a free full kitchen consultation in your home. We need about 2 hours and there’s some things I want you to do to prepare for this meeting. We will discuss everything – style, layout, appliances, countertops, backsplash, flooring, lighting, construction, timelines and budget. By the end of this meeting we will both know what the next steps are. With an agreement to move forward I will sketch up a layout that can be priced, work out a ball park estimate and we will meet again to go over the proposal.
- Once we are under contract and a 10% retainer is paid, my next steps are to refine the design and specifications so accurate quotes can be obtained. Preliminary scope of work for the contractors and estimates with breakdowns so you can make informed financial decisions.
- I can work with any contractor of your choice, or I can bring in my favourite contractors. Either way, the construction contract is directly between you and the contractor. My role as your designer doesn’t stop until the kitchen is complete and you are completely satisfied. If you prefer to do some or most of the work yourself I can be your “construction coach”, help you with planning, contracting trades and scheduling the work. (see additional services option below)
- Concept design starting with sketch layouts for best functionality then drawings, selection of finishes for cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, sink/faucet, light fixtures and other items as needed such as flooring, paint colours, millwork etc. You really get a feel for the look and layout of the kitchen and it’s surroundings.
- Showroom visits with you to view and select cabinetry, countertop slabs, fixtures and tile as needed. I have established relationships with 3 different cabinetry manufacturers from low priced semi custom to full custom luxury grade, all with full warranties and customer services.
- Complete set of drawings in plan and elevation with accurate dimensions, cabinet codes and builder notes. If required a lighting plan will be provided for the builder. I also prepare a full set of construction documents including updated scope of work, drawings, appliance specifications and other installation details.
- Frequent site visits as needed to bring the job to completion to your complete satisfaction.
Additional Services
- Project management of either just the cabinets and countertops, or managing the sub trades through the entire construction process. Daily communications with you and all involved to keep everyone informed and manage expectations. I become your one source, single line of communication and accountability.
- Interior design and furnishing – remodeling a kitchen can also establish a whole to look for your home. To re-furnish and re-decorate other areas of the home is another job in itself and a separate budget. I can help in a small way by making suggestions for lighting, paint colours, makeovers of fireplaces etc., or I can collaborate with any one of my favourite interior designers who will take you through the process.