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!

We are doing a portico on our ranch too. Since we are now replacing the roof shingles, I asked our roof contractor and he is building it. It is called a california framing. For the style of the portico I looked at pictures on line. He then made a drawing and took pictures of the front. In our town it requires permits. So he provided the drawings and pictures and we were approved. It is 3K for the portico additional, but I think is very reasonable, it will be 7’ X 7’. Tomorrow they will dig the holes for the columns. I hope this info helps.

Hi Everyone!!! For my senior project, I'm focusing on the topic of interior design. As a part of the project I need a few "interviews" with people in my field. If anyone would be willing to answer some questions (9 fairly quick questions) about interior design, I would greatly appreciate it. Here are the questions: How long have you been an interior designer? In your words, what is interior design? How does a house differ from a home? What are some things that you consider when redesigning a space? What are some things that you can do to personalize a space? In a renovation, there are a lot of workers needed (contractors, electricians, plumbers, etc.). A lot of the time, people do not use interior designers because of the added cost. What is the benefit to using an interior designer in situations like this? To what extent does the interior design of a home affect its resale value? How does preparing a home to be sold differ from preparing a home for a family? What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone looking to go into interior design? If you'd like to reach out to me personally, my email is tyler-wright@outlook.com Thanks in advance! -Tyler Wright

Hi Suzy, Good luck with your new house. Maybe I can help you out with what you looking to do. Please leave me your email in my message box on my profile page and I will get back to you. Good luck