You're about to remodel your kitchen and are confused by all the design options. Should you hire a kitchen designer or will the contractor and architect guide you? Here's a look at what the various kitchen professionals do.

Kitchen Designers Help With Layout, Style, and Functional Decisions

A kitchen designer can coordinate the entire kitchen design and product selections. This person will guide you through the following decisions:

• The kitchen layout - where the kitchen sink and appliances will go; where to put an island, etc.
• The style, size, and brand of kitchen cabinets.
• The use of storage features in kitchen cabinets.
• The selection of kitchen appliances.
• The selection of the kitchen sink and other fixtures.

Look For a Kitchen Designer Who Shares Your Vision

When selecting a kitchen designer, look for someone who understands your kitchen design goals and can help with space constraints and storage needs. Space constraints give you a functional kitchen cabinet layout in a small or odd-shaped space. Storage needs in a kitchen design should fit the way you use the kitchen. Whether that means a pantry for canned goods, built-in spice racks near the cooking center, or decorative storage on an island, the right storage focus can make the difference between a cluttered kitchen and one that is easy to work in.

Architects Focus on Kitchen Design Layout and Structure

Depending on the scope of your kitchen remodeling, you may want an architect to help configure the kitchen design. Some architects have a good sense of kitchen design, while others focus more on the layout and structural issues. Among the services an architect can provide are:

• Construction drawing that show kitchen design, placement of kitchen appliances, and kitchen cabinets
• Management of the kitchen remodeling process

Some Contractors Can Help With Kitchen Design

Those who prefer not to hire a kitchen designer or architect should look for a remodeling contractor with some design expertise. Ask about the person's experience with

• The latest kitchen cabinet trends
• Problem-solving with storage needs or other issues
• Familiarity with the latest kitchen appliance features, kitchen sinks, and other kitchen products.

A kitchen designer can really help you find the right vision for your kitchen, but using an architect or a remodeling contractor can also give you a good end result if you find the right one.