Only large kitchens can be great kitchens
Small kitchens can be a storage challenge, but with careful planning they can be extremely functional and efficient. Every inch must be used very wisely, and priorities must be established. Small kitchens have actually resulted in some of our favorite designs. On the other hand, large kitchens can result in appliance centers placed too far apart and thus tired and cranky users! The creation of smaller “function areas” is the key for these types of kitchens.

Professional designers only know how to work with high-end materials
When building a new home, you certainly do not use inferior materials on the foundation – the life of the home depends on its stability. It is the same with cabinetry. They are permanent built-ins – the foundation of good room design. Once you have a good quality foundation, there are a multitude of finishes in varying price ranges which will lend value and beauty. We work with all types of finishes and make even the least costly ones appear to be “high-end” – creative design, texture, and balance are what make the difference!

Professional designers “dictate” the design selections
No! We are here to guide you through the selection process. We present options and discuss the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision on what works best for your space. The only thing we will adamantly insist on is safety for you and your family.

Anybody can design a kitchen
We would never insist we know everything, but we do “live and breathe” kitchens and baths 365 days a year. We are both Certified Kitchen Designers and are thus very active within the information pool for this ever-changing profession. And we are both avid cooks! Who better to design your space which includes preparing menus, grocery shopping and storage, preparing the meals, serving it, and cleaning it up, than someone who performs these functions on a daily basis? We speak the language!

A new kitchen costs “an arm and a leg”
It can, but it certainly doesn’t have to. It is an investment which, if done properly, can substantially increase the value of your home. A kitchen costs about the same as purchasing a vehicle. However, a vehicle depreciates at a very rapid rate and has many extra costs involved: taxes, insurance, tags, and maintenance and upkeep. In five years time, a car is worth much less than the amount you have invested. A well-designed kitchen, on the other hand, will actually give you close to 100% return on your investment after that same five year period. Hmmm …

My Contractor says you don’t need high-quality cabinets, all cabinets are essentially the same
“Some builders” also drive $45,000 SUV’s and their sum experience in kitchens is getting a beer from the ‘fridge… okay, that was mean … but true! The rule of thumb for a new construction is that he kitchen should not exceed 10% of the total cost of the home. This figure should include cabinetry, countertops, appliances and backsplash treatment. For remodels, this percentage will be higher since improving the space frequently requires altering the existing layout. Labor costs for removing the old items, plumbing and electrical changes, wall and floor treatments, lighting improvements, not to mention cabinetry and countertops all add to the cost of a remodel. In otherwords, if you are building a new home, doing it “right” the first time is much more cost effective!