The Right Professional for Your Remodel BY NISSA HALLQUIST
Even if a designer appears to be your soulmate creatively, you'll still want to check a bit further. Is their staff friendly and pleasant, people you will enjoy working with for however many weeks or months your project might take? Is their showroom clean and well-planned, indicating care and attention to detail? Most importantly, what do previous clients have to say? Take the time to get a list of references from a potential contractor, and make the calls. Others' perspectives on the quality of work can be invaluable.
T PHOTO COURTESY OF KHOURY DESIGN PHOTO COURTESY OF MK DESIGNS
These days, every cent counts. You can't just go throwing money around. That is especially true when considering a major investment like a kitchen or bathroom remodel. The best way to ensure that you're getting the best value for your money is to have it done right the first time. And the best way to ensure that? Work with an NKBA-certified professional.
Beyond the financial aspect, there's also the fact that the process of remodeling a kitchen or bathroom can simply be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider--plumbing, appliances, countertops, cabinets, and so on and so on. And unless you are yourself a licensed contractor, putting all these components together is very complex; certainly not a do-it-yourself proposition.
That's where a licensed professional comes in. They will take accurate measurements, suggest proper materials and design a functional, safe and cost-efficient space that reflects your personal taste and lifestyle. Whether it is new construction or a remodel, an NKBA professional will add value to your investment with their experience and expertise.
But which NKBA professional is right for you? You'll want to research and talk to several designers/contractors in your area. Feel them out and make sure that 1) they meet your needs, and 2) you feel comfortable talking with them. After all, when it comes to your home, you definitely want to be sure you and your contractor are on the same page.
And there are other things to look for. When you look through a designer's portfolio, look for a broad range of styles--which indicates flexibility and the ability to personalize--complete with interesting, one-of-the-kind details.
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Finally, perhaps the most important deciding factor: NKBA membership. The NKBA has been dedicated to excellence in the areas of kitchen and bath remodeling for OVER 50 years. As such, membership in the organization indicates that the remodeler or designer you're considering has met its very high standards.
All NKBA certification programs require extensive professional experience and education. Just how many years someone has been a member, and how much experience and ongoing training they've gone through are indicated by their certification level within the NKBA. These certifications are:
• AKBD - Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer • CKBD - Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer • CMKBD - Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer
While someone might have more time in, you can feel comfortable hiring someone at any of these certification levels. (For a list of certifications, take a look at page 35.)
Ultimately, what it all comes down to is you should pick the NKBA professional that satisfies your taste and style most. This person should have the professional experience the job requires, as well as be someone with whom you can communicate and work together to get what you want with the budget you have.
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NKBA members are the finest professionals in the industry and can help to make your home remodel or dream kitchen and bath a reality. For more information about how to make your kitchen or bathroom remodel a creative and financial success, read on. Or you can also visit the local NKBA California Capital Chapter's website at
www.sacnkba.org.
14 NKBA ANNUAL MEMBER DIRECTORY 2017 ourses
Whether you’re an experienced industry professional looking to enhance your design skills, student striving to break into the industry or a professional who wants to build their professional credentials through NKBA certification. NKBA’s innovative new approach to Learning & Professional Development is perfect for you. Go to
www.nkba.org/Courses.aspx for information regarding courses offered.
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