How is a kitchen designer different than an architect or interior designer?

There are exceptions to every rule, but basically, an architect is responsible for the structure of a home -- the foundation, walls, roof and mechanical systems. An architect is concerned with making the shell of the home structurally sound, functional and attractive. An interior designer uses furniture, fabrics and finishes to make a home beautiful, functional and comfortable. An interior designer will also often modify the actual structure of a room to create a more useful or attractive space. Architects and interior designers do design kitchens. A kitchen designer, however, typically has more in-depth knowledge specifically about the kitchen. Kitchen designers can suggest structural changes, as well as help you pick the finishes and other elements to make a room look like a unified whole. More important, a kitchen designer has experience in the specific areas of cabinet and appliance layout and function. A kitchen designer knows what clearances are required around appliances, how ...  more