How I Became a Kitchen Designer

I know that a lot of people dream to become some kind of designer one day. I also recognize that I dream to become a clothing designer, but is just a dream that someday who knows . Today for those who want a little inspiration, I ve asked Susan Serra from Thekitchendesigner to tell us her story, on how she became a kitchen designer. Enjoy !

I think one knows early on in life, what one s passions are. Those passions can move into interests and work that can last a lifetime and be very fulfilling. At an early age, I was interested in, no, passionate about, working with space in the home.

I enrolled in Parsons School of Design, and along the way, it became clear to me that my strong interest was the design of kitchen spaces.The path toward being a kitchen designer. however, is not a straight path! Training and education can come from several areas and disciplines, and should. Eventually, I became an NKBA member (National Kitchen and Bath Association ) and worked my way toward becoming a CKD ( Certified Kitchen Designer )

There is also the school of experience, as nothing can substitute for real, live, clients and their unique needs. Having a mentor also is important. In my case, my experience began with what I call a baptism by fire! Shortly after beginning my NKBA studies, and starting work at a high end kitchen showroom, the store proprietor left to take a job at NKBA s offices, the next state over, leaving me, inexperienced, to manage the showroom and design kitchens!

My first client (ever ) was a cranky, elderly, malpractice attorney with an historically registered home and a big budget! His contractor was equally cranky. Faxing my plans and ideas to my employer saved the day. The kitchen was perfect, and I was on my way!

On my way, through a windy road, to working with a passion, always. To winning awards, lecturing on kitchens, having my work frequently published, to building an online community (the only one ) for professional kitchen and bath designers, becoming a go-to-source for editors, AND, becoming acquainted with some of the very best blogs, such as Freshome.com . always on my list for material that will make me happily procrastinate in my work for (unfortunately ) long periods of time, looking for new, fresh, ideas!