A kitchen renovation is a great project that can add value to your home and provide years of enjoyment.  Planning your renovation involves more than wandering through the aisles of your local home improvement center. For anything beyond a minor project, you will need to choose a good kitchen designer and a kitchen remodeling contractor.  Sometimes these are the same person or firm.

You may have a good idea of what you want to achieve from your remodeling project, but working with a great kitchen designer is usually worth every penny.  They know from experience what works well together and how to achieve the look and functionality you desire.  They will also have insights into the materials and fixtures that are available and will be able to offer suggestions for the design that you may not have even thought of that will result in a fantastic new kitchen that exceeds your expectations.

Some kitchen designers also function as the remodeling contractor.  If not, you will need a good contractor with experience in kitchen remodeling.  The contractor deals with and all the tradesmen who will be involved with the job.  You can attempt to do this yourself, but kitchen remodeling involves many different trades including plumbing, flooring, electrical, cabinet making, countertops, tile, masonry and general carpentry.

Finding and coordinating all these trades is much more difficult and time consuming than it seems.  A good remodeling contractor has the organizational skills and experience to efficiently manage your kitchen remodeling project.  They also have a good set of contacts and know who they can depend on to do good work.

When choosing your kitchen designer and remodeling contractor, you will want to be sure they have the appropriate qualifications and a good reputation.  Ask for and follow up with references and be sure the contractor is licensed and has sufficient liability insurance coverage.