The kitchen is a special part of our home – basically the heart of it. As a kitchen designer, one should be able to create functional, aesthetic, and ergonomic kitchen spaces that align with the client’s tastes and wishes. The role is on the one hand pretty demanding, as it requires a systematic approach to learning and improving your skills. On the other hand, it’s incredibly rewarding. If you want to know what it takes to start paving your way into kitchen design, we explain it in our article.
What are a Kitchen Designer’s Typical Responsibilities?
A kitchen designer’s responsibilities aren’t limited to only designing. Here are some examples of the tasks a kitchen designer normally undertakes:
- Holding initial consultations that include understanding clients’ needs, preferences, and budgets.
Making site assessments, including measuring the space, evaluating existing conditions, and identifying structural or electrical limitations. - Initial design concept development, including mood boards and samples of materials, finishes, and fixtures.
Detailed design development, including technical drawings and 3D models made in special design software. - Material selection to ensure that materials meet durability, maintenance, and aesthetic requirements.
Appliances recommendation or selection to fit the design and budget. - Budget management, including detailed cost estimates for the entire project and adherence to the budget.
Project management, including interaction with contractors, suppliers, and other tradespeople. Also, supervising the installation process and addressing any issues or changes that arise during construction.
If you feel like these tasks resonate within you, let’s find out what you need to do to get your foot into the kitchen design business and get one of the remote kitchen designer vacancies without any prior experience.
How Much Does a Kitchen Designer in the UK Make?
Several factors influence this figure, including experience and expertise, location, and the size and reputation of the company you work for. According to the GOV.UK official website, a kitchen designer’s salary currently varies between £22,000 (for newbies) and £36,000 (for experienced designers) per annum. The profession also offers decent freelance opportunities.
Do You Need a Specific Education to Find a Job of a Kitchen Designer in the UK?
One of the ways to qualify as a professional kitchen designer is to acquire a degree. It may be Interior Design, Architecture, or Engineering, or any other related field. However, it’s just the beginning of a long journey. The thing is that with the degree, you get a fundamental understanding of what attractive and effective design is in general. But to succeed in kitchen design, you have to delve deeper and develop specialised skills. The most effective way is combining lifelong education (reading design literature, attending design conferences and seminars, taking part in workshops, keeping up with the latest trends, and so on) and hands-on experience. In such a way, you will have a chance to find out if you have a flair for all of the complexities that come along with the role.
Are there Any Other Ways to Get Into the Job?
Yes, besides doing a college course, one can apply for an apprenticeship, for instance, a Fitted furniture design technician advanced apprenticeship. To get one, you typically need 5 GCSEs with grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Another option is starting in kitchen or bathroom sales roles to learn and grow within the field. Being in sales can provide you with a wealth of knowledge crucial for your future design career, namely product knowledge, client relationships, and organisational and management skills. Later on, you will do some professional development courses, create a professional portfolio, and gradually make it to a kitchen designer role.
What Else Is Important to Become a Kitchen Designer?
Of course, you need a powerful portfolio. It should include before-and-after photos of your projects, detailed plans, and client testimonials. Without a portfolio, employers will be reluctant to cooperate with you, whether you are a professional or an aspiring kitchen designer.
Last but not least – sales skills. For the majority of kitchen designers, a significant portion of their income comes in the form of commissions. You may design drop-dead gorgeous kitchen cabinets, however, what is the point if you’re not convincing enough to make clients buy them from you? Your skill to present and sell your design solutions is directly proportional to your income, consider it before you make the final decision to choose this profession.