Your Kitchen
Before You Remodel, Find the Right Designer By Chris Linden, executive editor fter nearly 40 years of designing Getting started, Wegner advises kitchens and bathrooms, Dave Wehomeowners to set an appointment. This gner can pretty much say he’s seen it all. first meeting is a time for designer and The designer at Blue Ribbon Millwork in homeowner to talk about project goals, Woodstock has worked his way through materials, finishes and options. Wegner remodeling jobs big and small, easy and also shows examples of his team’s work, hard, and all levels of challenging. And in photographs and in the showroom. more than a few times he’s saved homeThese details help the prospective client owners from contractors and designers to see what they’re getting into. who didn’t know what they were doing. This first meeting may be a good That’s why, when it comes to plantime to talk budget, because things almost ning a remodel, he encourages homeowninevitably cost more than you’d expect. A ers to do their research, because hiring kitchen remodel might cost $30,000 on the right designer – one who listens, who the lowest end, and it can pass $50,000 follows through, and who provides a relion the high end. The price always varies able resource – makes all the difference. with materials and labor. Return on in“A good designer shows he or she vestment may also factor in. cares about the homeowner and wants to Don’t expect a detailed quote uphelp them succeed,” says Wegner. “And front. A thoroughly researched estimate that’s really what people are looking for: takes at least a week or two, as the designsomeone to give you the best service poser gathers renderings, prices and product sible. It’s not just about pricing.” availability – in between the other jobs
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(Bertch Cabinets photo)
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they’re currently juggling. Some designers take even longer, as they detail every aspect of the job, from material and labor costs to architectural renderings. A good designer stands by the client during construction and well beyond. When all is said and done, happy homeowners tend to refer family and friends. “When we’re done, my customers are my friends,” says Wegner. “And they come back for new projects.” ❚ Blue Ribbon Millwork is located at 1401 S. Eastwood Dr., Woodstock, (815) 338-8900.
Smart Living Elite
April 2022
13
