15 Nov Why Should You Work With a Certified Designer?

If you’ve made the decision to remodel your home, you’re likely facing a new set of questions. Who do you work with to bring your vision to reality? You certainly have options, everything from do-it-yourself to hiring contractors to install new flooring, cabinets, and countertops, to partnering with a full-service design-build company like Lee Kimball. When it comes to the actual design, you may have a feel for what you want, or you may wish to consult with a professional, certified kitchen or bathroom designer.

But, before you launch into planning and executing a remodel, take a moment to consider what’s most important. 

First, why are you remodeling? A common misconception about remodeling is that most people who undergo a renovation pursue it for greater resale and home equity, when in fact the latest Houzz & Home Survey reveals only 9% of homeowners prioritize resale. The most common reason was a longstanding desire to renovate the home (78%), largely for design and/or functionality. 

Second, how best to get optimum design and function outcomes? Chances are, you’ve waited for the time or resources to renovate these key areas of your home. A remodel is a significant investment and deserves expert attention. While there are contractors who “do” kitchens and baths, or some design assistance through retail outlets, engaging a certified kitchen designer or certified bath designer can help ensure that your investment of time and resources leads to a beautiful result. 

According to This Old House, “If it’s…the kitchen you’re working on and you want top-notch guidance you’ll get the most expertise from an NKBA-certified designer.” The National Kitchen + Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting professionalism in the kitchen and bath industry.

There are good reasons for this recommendation, which is echoed by other outlets such as Better Homes & Gardens. NKBA is an industry-leading organization whose certifications are widely recognized and respected. Their certification process is stringent, requiring a solid industry background and successful completion of an educational curriculum culminating in a certification exam and portfolio evaluation. While contractors or in-house retail designers can assist with cabinetry layout and materials, a certified designer goes well beyond that by focusing on layout, lighting, ergonomic aspects, storage, and, of course, beautiful design. When you integrate the services of one of NKBA’s certifications such as CKBD (Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer) or CKD (Certified Kitchen Designer) or CBD (Certified Bath Designer) into your remodel, you’ll have the design and function reassurance that comes with working with the best in the industry.

As an industry leader, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality services to our clients, and that includes the services of the NKBA-certified designers who are part of our team. When you combine excellence in design, materials, and execution, the results are sure to delight and serve you and your family for many years to come. Experience some of our beautifully designed and executed renovation projects to discover the difference our approach and working with a certified designer makes.