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Step 1
Know what you want. Before looking for a kitchen designer, establish your goals for the project. Write a list of problem areas that you want to be the primary focus of the renovation, any new features or appliances you want to incorporate and a "wish list" of things you would like if space and budget permits.
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Step 2
Establish a budget. Unless you're one of the lucky few who can spend as much as you want on home improvements, have a definitive budget for your kitchen project. Go over this budget with the designer you are considering for the job to make sure that it is realistic, and that they are willing to adhere to it.
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Step 3
Be flexible. A kitchen designer who tells you that your budget won't work for the amount of improvements you want to make or that the colors you have chosen aren't complimentary isn't necessarily trying to be overbearing or difficult. Remember that the designer is a professional who specializes in kitchen renovations and listen to what they have to say. Rather than either of you taking over the project, find a designer that you can work with so that the two of you can design the kitchen you want side by side.
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Step 4
Look at examples of past work. Find out if designers you are considering have worked on a kitchen like yours or have done the kind of work you want done in the past. Ask them for pictures or examples of similar projects or let them describe the most difficult or problematic kitchen they have overhauled. Knowing their level of experience with your kind of kitchen will help you determine if they are the right designer for the job.
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Step 5
Talk with former clients. Ask potential designers for references and former clients who can vouch for their work. Ask these past customers about the designer's work ethic, customer service, how well they listen to individual requests and how closely the designer follows a budget and design plan. If the designer is as good as they seem, there should be no shortage of past clients willing to vouch for their kitchen renovating skills.
