The process works best when a client can work with a kitchen designer they trust, one that listens to them, really listens. “Then it’s two ears and one mouth,” Ross from Poggenpohl says.

That first meeting isn’t about measurements. It’s about getting to know you. Do you entertain? Are there kids in the mix? Are you a one-pot wonder or a Sunday roast type? All of this shapes the final design. “Each kitchen is unique, and it’s designed for the individual.”

A good designer isn’t trying to push you toward a particular style or trend. They’re trying to understand how you live, how your kitchen needs to function for your day-to-day life. That’s the foundation of a layout that works.

Ross from Poggenpohl emphasises that it’s not just about layout. It’s about flow. While most people know about the kitchen triangle, he prefers to think in circles. “You go from storage to ovens to cooktops to workspace to then sinks, dishwashers, cutlery drawers.” That circular rhythm creates a kitchen that simply works.

This concept of flow becomes even more important in households where more than one person uses the kitchen at the same time. Whether it’s partners cooking together, kids coming in for snacks, or guests gathering around an island, a well-planned kitchen needs to accommodate movement without creating bottlenecks.

Once a designer has a sense of your lifestyle, they can create an initial concept. This isn’t the final plan. It’s a starting point. But having something visual to respond to makes it easier to get clarity. It’s common for people to feel overwhelmed when faced with a blank page. A concept gives them something to push against or build on, and that often sparks the best ideas.

How to prepare for meeting a kitchen designer

• Collect images that reflect the look and feel you want, even if your style isn’t fully defined.
• Write a short list of how you use your kitchen: who cooks, when, and how.
• Think about any frustrations with your current layout and what you wish you could change.

A great kitchen doesn’t just look good. It works well. It feels natural to move through. And it supports the way you live, every single day. That’s what smart design is really about.

Thinking of upgrading your kitchen?

If you’re planning to renovate your kitchen, our Renovating Your Kitchen Guides will walk you through the process. They cover everything from layout and storage to finishes and functionality, so you can make confident, future-proof decisions that truly fit your home. Whether you’re staying put in your home or selling, Join MyTrends to unlock a full library of guides designed to support you at each stage of your property journey.