Design Process
“Remodeling your home can be one of the most rewarding experiences."
With over 20 years of experience, Andersonville Kitchen & Bath follows a step-by-step process to support our clients from start to finish.
Let’s get started!
DESIGN CONSULTATION
The first step in the design process starts with scheduling a complimentary consultation in our boutique showroom with our designer. All design consultations are per appointment only.
When you visit our showroom, we will:
- Learn about your project vision
- Discuss your budget
- Help you get acquainted with our selection of high-quality products
- Provide feedback on project timeline expectations
- Share contacts from a network of contractors, should the client need a referral
Helpful items to bring for your consultation include:
- Dimensions/layouts
- Photos of your current space
- Design inspirations; Houzz/Pinterest Ideabooks
AKB Chicago is affiliated with the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
We will offer design feedback that reflects NKBA standards and guidelines.
*If you are interested in simply replacing your existing cabinetry layout with the same cabinet dimensions, we can provide a quote for you upon your selection of our cabinetry products. If you are interested in further design work, or any kind of adjustments, read on to our next design step!
IN-HOME MEASURE
Once you are ready to begin the design process with AKB Chicago, our designer will visit your home to obtain precise measurements in order to begin designing your space.
- For kitchen remodels, a $1,500.00 design retainer, applicable to purchase of proposed cabinetry only–this is required to schedule the in-home measure and start the kitchen design process.
- For bathroom remodels, a $1,500.00 (per bathroom) design fee includes one in-home visit from our designer, for the purpose of measuring the space, ascertaining the current storage capacity and discussing
needs that the current design does not meet, and one in home or showroom meeting with contractor and/or owner prior to ordering will be offered as needed to discuss necessary
alterations to the existing space and placement of plumbing/electrical fixtures per proposed design.
DESIGN PLANNING
After our designer measures your space, she will begin producing a custom design, tailored specifically to your needs and style. We will then schedule a time to meet with you again in our showroom for a design presentation, in which our designer will share with you realistic renderings of your envisioned space.
Topics discussed in your presentation will include:
- Functionality of proposed design(s)
- Purpose and placement of each individual cabinet
- Reviewing samples of projected materials for your design
- Any revisions you’d like to see rendered
Services that are not included:
- Architectural blueprints, including but not limited to: lighting, electrical, plumbing, structural engineering or HVAC plans
- Advice or assistance in acquiring city/township building permits
- General contracting or project management services. Should you decide to employ one of the contractors we recommended we will not be responsible for, nor are we able to facilitate communication, estimates, work schedule, payments or timeline of the chosen contractor
- Existing cabinetry refacing or replacements of doors and drawers. If an order is covered under warranty we will provide contact information for warranty replacement
REVISIONS AND ORDERING
A revision is any change to the proposed layout. Two revisions to the originally proposed layout are included in the initial $1,500
Design Retainer. If more revisions are needed there will be an additional $2,000.00 retainer to furnish 3 more revisions.
Non-refundable full payment for cabinetry is required at the time of the order. Once the payment is processed, our designer will
send our Letter of Agreement Document along with a detailed layout and cabinetry specifications with installation notes for
review by the client and signature/initials indicating client approval in proceeding with the order. Order will NOT be placed until
we receive signed documents.
Should the client request release of the detailed layout with cabinetry specs and installation notes
before the order is placed a 50% non-refundable cabinetry deposit will be required. This deposit will be applied to the cabinetry
purchase in the proposed design plan only. Full payment for countertops is required to schedule a field measure. Plans,
dimensions, or cabinet lists will not be released until the 50% cabinetry deposit or full payment for cabinetry have been collected;
no exceptions.
PROJECT COORDINATION
After the order is placed, our Project Coordinator will be communicating with you regarding:
- Elements of the project timeline
- Scheduling deliveries, measure appointments, countertop or shower glass installations
- Checking on project status or concerns
- Resolving any unforeseen product issues