How to Find a Pro

Ask family and friends for references. Personal referrals are a great way to obtain a list of professionals to consider.

Interview several candidates. Look at portfolios of their work; better still, arrange to see some of their work in person. This will give you an idea of the scale of rooms they've worked in and the types of ideas they've implemented. Get references and talk to past clients whenever possible.

Check credentials. Make sure your candidates thoroughly understand kitchen or bath design. Cabinet salespeople, interior designers, and architects may not match the expertise of someone with specialized training or extensive experience in kitchen or bath design. You can find certified designers in your area via the National Kitchen and Bath Association (877-NKBA-PRO).

Do your homework. Whether you're hiring a designer for hourly consultation or looking for someone to coordinate the project from start to finish, be prepared. Develop a list of goals for the remodeling, and have a rough budget in mind as well. (See next page for how to find inspiration.)

Draw up a plan. Show the dimensions and layout of your existing space and make a mock-up of what you're envisioning. This way, a potential designer will understand the scale of your project.