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The Daily Insight

How much should a designer charge for a kitchen?

Author

Abigail Rogers

Updated on February 27, 2026

Fees for a high-end kitchen designer can represent 8% to 10% of your project costs. The lower figure generally applies to more expensive projects—those costing $127,000 or more. The national average for kitchen design services is $12,250, with the minimum range for an independent designer running from $1,500 to $3,000.

Should I hire an architect for a kitchen remodel?

As a general rule of thumb, architects are recommended if the cost of your project totals 5% or more of your total house value. In most cases, you hire an architect before you hire the contractor. You will meet with the architect to go over all of your needs and create a complete plan of action.

How do I find a kitchen designer?

Start your search for a designer online at the NKBA website (nkba.org), which can point you to designers in your area. Then visit the websites of the designers or contact them directly. Get names from friends and neighbors who have remodeled their kitchens.

Can you design your own kitchen?

Planning a kitchen can be challenging. You want your kitchen design to be functional and attractive, but also affordable. Create a floor plan of your kitchen, try different layouts, and visualize with different materials for the walls, floor, countertops, and cabinets – all in one easy-to-use app.

What does a kitchen designer do?

A kitchen designer is a type of interior designer who works with clients to discuss all aspects of creating, remodeling, or updating the kitchen area of their home. You would discuss building materials, themes, colors, patterns, and room layout with a client.

How much does an architect cost in California?

Fees typically range from $2,014 to $8,375, with an average of $5,126. But fees can be much higher than that, depending on the size and complexity of the job.

How many hours does it take to design a kitchen?

Designing a kitchen – approx. 25 – 30 hours from start to final walk-through.

How can I get a free kitchen design?

Help from Home Improvement Centers and Kitchen Materials Stores. Big-box home improvement stores such as Lowe’s and The Home Depot offer free kitchen design advice as a marketing tool for promoting their cabinet and appliance product lines, and also as a lure simply to bring customers into the stores.