Ask the Experts: Kitchen Design Advice from the Pros
Planning a kitchen can feel overwhelming—budgeting, designing, and making sure your space is both functional and beautiful. That’s why we’ve tapped four seasoned kitchen experts to answer your most common questions. Whether you're starting from scratch, trying to stretch a tight budget, or just giving your space a facelift, these pros have the insights to help you make smart decisions.
Where Do I Start When Planning a New Kitchen?
Step one: talk to a designer.
According to Michael A. Bish, the first move should be to “set an appointment with a trusted kitchen designer and bring in some rough dimensions. Have ideas pinned on Pinterest or Houzz and sit down to go over wants vs. needs.”
Dennis Tschudy agrees but adds a deeper layer: “Ask yourself what your goals for the space are. Then set a realistic budget.”
Laura Pisarski recommends getting inspired and getting organized: “Establish a budget to share with the designer. Look at inspiration pics on Pinterest, Houzz, Instagram, etc., and research contractors.”
Lee Eckelberger keeps it simple: “Start with a reputable company like Modern Builders Supply who will guide you through the process.”
Working on a Tight Budget? Spend Here, Save There
All our experts agree—splurge on quality cabinets. That’s the investment that truly pays off over time.
“Go with a mid-range cabinet (not the cheapest),” says Bish. “Accessories can always be added later.”
Pisarski echoes the sentiment: “Spend on cabinetry—you don’t want something you’ll need to rip out in five years. You can always upgrade countertops and backsplashes later.”
Dennis Tschudy recommends looking for specials on appliances, flooring, and hardware while putting your money toward good cabinets and countertops.
Meanwhile, Eckelberger praises the budget-friendly impact of laminate: “Laminate tops look very convincing as a solid surface substitute.”
Updating a Kitchen Without a Full Remodel
Not ready to start from scratch? There’s plenty you can do to refresh your kitchen without gutting it.
Bish suggests: “Put on new cabinet pulls, a new faucet, possibly a new countertop and backsplash. If the cabinets aren’t oak, repainting is a great option.”
Pisarski and Tschudy both stress the power of updated lighting, hardware, and paint, while Eckelberger keeps it clean and classic: “Painting and hardware.”
Even small changes can breathe new life into the space.
What’s a Good Kitchen Color?
This one came with a unanimous subtext: it depends on your style and your space.
Tschudy advises timeless neutrals: “Soft white, light gray, or taupe depending on how you want the space to feel.”
Pisarski says if you’re unsure, stick to white or light stain, but notes that: “Color accents can be great—try using them on an island or backsplash.”
Bish likes a mix of paint and stain for balance: “White perimeter cabinets with a wood-tone island.”
And for Eckelberger, context is key: “Whatever goes with your home overall. Off-white and brown are popular, but might not fit a contemporary home.”
Best Storage Hacks for Small Kitchens
If you’re tight on space, creative storage is your best friend. Here are the pros’ favorite tricks:
Tiered cutlery dividers & tray inserts (Bish, Pisarski)
Open shelves above counters or doors (Tschudy)
Undershelf baskets & door organizer shelves (Tschudy)
Over-fridge 24” deep cabinets (Bish)
Tilt-down sink storage (Tschudy)
Ceiling-height cabinets with crown molding (Pisarski)
Pantry if possible (Eckelberger)
Simple additions like rolling carts or hanging hooks for mugs and utensils also go a long way.
Top Kitchen Trends to Watch
Trends with staying power? Think warm tones, smart storage, and intentional design.
Pisarski notes: “Light maple or white oak finishes, warmer tones overall, and accents on islands or pantries.”
Tschudy highlights a tech-savvy future with: “Bold hardware, mixed cabinet colors, open shelving, and tech-friendly designs.”
Eckelberger reminds us trends should suit the user—and that sometimes, comfort is the ultimate trend.
Best Design Choices for Hosting
All four experts emphasized flow and functionality for entertaining.
“A comfortable island—not just lining people up in a row,” says Eckelberger. He also recommends separate zones for buffet and prep to avoid crowding.
Pisarski and Tschudy agree: islands offer bonus storage and serving space. Tschudy adds that beverage stations and layered lighting make a space feel welcoming and intuitive.
Final Thoughts
From layout planning to smart budgeting and stylish updates, our experts agree: start with function, focus on quality, and build around how you want the space to feel.
Whether you're creating a chef’s dream or simply maximizing a cozy corner, a kitchen designed with care—and the right advice—makes all the difference.