Guess that all depends on your comfort level with the architect plan = necessary/good idea? Sometimes a designer can be beneficial in perfecting a design that you may prefer yet just don't think you can accomplish on your own. Selecting a furniture type, interior colors, room arrangements, convienience, etc can sometimes be a daunting task and assistance from a professional designer can be of some benefit, while other times a simple "do it yourself" design is very suitable and less expensive. I am not sure it is necessary to secure the services of a designer and an architect at the same time unless you are unsure of the architects ability to draw proper plans and provide suitable space/areas for desired decor. That being said. I am sure there are those that would not undertake a major remodel without the assistance of a designer and I am certain designers will tell me I know not what I am talking about. So the decesion is yours to decide. You must only satisfy yourself and not necessarily the ideas of friends eventhough they mean well. Perhaps your friend does not feel comfortable in desiginig such a space, thus the suggestion, do you? You have now answer your own question. Good luck in your decision.

No KD to recommend, but I do highly recommend UltraCraft cabinets made very close to there in Liberty NC. http://www.ultracraft.com/

The first thing that came to mind is a pendant a longtime friend and local jeweler created for me. My DH & I were high school sweethearts and we became engaged during college. To buy me a ring, he worked a side job while attending classes and doing an internship. It was a gold band with a 1/4 ct. diamond in a simple raised setting. I was thrilled with it, but he regretted the stone was small. On our 25th anniversary he surprised me with a new ring. I was touched, but had such a sentimental attachment to the one I'd worn for decades that he had this pendant made - the circle is my original ring. It represents my design philosophy because it's a simple, practical piece made of fine materials that has a personal attachment or connection. I photographed it on an unembellished black cashmere sweater (which also reflects what I'm drawn to - style/color). The ring is yellow gold but the bail and diamond setting was done in white gold, so it works whether I'm wearing gold or silver jewelry. It's casual enough to wear with a t-shirt, but can look elegant with a velvet dress. This piece isn't showy and wouldn't elicit "Wows" but it is unique and special to me. Same can be said about my homes and how I've chosen to furnish and decorate them.

I think what you're running into is Kitchen Designers who are really Cabinet Salespeople. Did you ask if they are NKBA-certified (not a guarantee of a good designer, but it's a good first step)? So many KDs are really cabinet salespeople - they know a lot about their cabinet line(s), but not so much about good design. Did either ask you about your lifestyle, your family composition, your plans for the kitchen, etc.? If not, that's a red flag. Check the Layout help FAQ for the types of questions KDs should be asking you - and that you should be prepared to answer. How do I ask for Layout Help and what information should I include? If you cannot find a good KD, then I suggest starting the design process by posting your space here. We have several professional KDs as well as several talented amateurs who can help you. When you're happy with the layout, go back to the KDs and see what they have to say - both for cabinet specifics in their cabinet line(s) and pricing. If you do find a KD, then see what s/he comes up with. I would still come here and post the layout for additional critiquing. Between your KD and here, you should be able to come up with a functional layout and a nice looking space. Good luck!