7 Best Kitchen Designers in Chicago for Expert Home Renovations

Finding the right kitchen designer can really change the game when you want to upgrade your home.

I get how crucial it is to have a kitchen that’s both functional and stylish, and actually feels like it fits your life.

Chicago has so many choices, honestly, it can get overwhelming fast.

I put together this list to help you find the 7 best kitchen designers in Chicago, looking at their experience, style, and what customers say about them.

These designers can turn your ideas into reality, keeping your budget and space in mind.

Whether you want a simple update or a full remodel, the right expert can guide you through the process and help you feel confident about the choices you make.

1) Guided Design Cabinetry & Interiors

When I stopped by Guided Design Cabinetry & Interiors on Lincoln Avenue, I immediately noticed how clean and inviting their space felt.

They focus on turning your ideas into real, custom cabinets and unique interiors.

The team really works closely with clients, paying attention to the little things that matter.

Their in-house designers and craftsmen stick with you from the first sketch to the final details, offering plenty of options to match your style.

They don’t just do cabinets—they handle kitchen and bathroom remodeling too. I liked how they mix creativity with practical solutions.

They also do custom furniture, which isn’t something you see everywhere. People say the team listens and comes up with smart ideas, even for smaller jobs.

If you want a kitchen that’s truly your own, with personal attention, this place is worth a look.

Rating: 5 (44 reviews)
Location: 2742 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: (312) 989-6333
Website: Visit Website

2) 312 Kitchen & Bath

312 Kitchen & Bath impressed me with their focus on luxury kitchen and bathroom remodels.

The team works closely with top contractors and suppliers to make smart, stylish designs happen.

They handle everything from quick upgrades to full home renovations.

The process is pretty straightforward—they start with a free estimate, then set up a consultation by phone or video.

They walk you through remodel proposals and help you pick finishes, offering expert showroom support.

What really caught my attention was their commitment to value.

They offer competitive pricing and often match or beat bids. Their general contractors manage each step, keeping things running smoothly and on schedule.

The owner seems to really get how remodeling affects your home’s value.

They focus on designs that strike a balance between beauty, function, and affordability.

If you want a high-end look without breaking the bank, these folks make it much less intimidating.

Rating: 5 (24 reviews)
Location: 401 N Michigan Ave #1200, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: (312) 833-3006
Website: Visit Website

3) Areté Renovators, Inc.

I checked out Areté Renovators, Inc. and liked how thorough their process feels from the start.

They kick things off with a free onsite consultation, taking time to get your vision and budget right.

The team asks smart questions to shape a plan that actually fits your needs. Their showroom is a great spot to see and choose materials.

I appreciated the variety of options—cabinetry, tile, countertops—you can actually touch everything. This hands-on approach makes design decisions much easier.

A dedicated coordinator manages your project, keeping you updated daily with photos and status reports.

The team prepares detailed drawings and estimates before construction, which gave me a lot of confidence.

They stay involved and keep communication clear at every stage.

Once construction starts, they organize a pre-construction meeting with everyone involved.

At the end, there’s a final walkthrough to make sure everything meets your expectations. Their focus on clarity and teamwork really stood out.

Rating: 4.9 (139 reviews)
Location: 3821 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Contact: (773) 683-3033
Website: Visit Website

4) Habitar Design

Habitar Design stood out to me because their team really tries to make each kitchen fit the owner.

They don’t rush—they spend time figuring out what you want and need.

Their designs balance looks and practical use, which I think is key.

They handle everything from the first idea to the final build, which keeps the process smooth.

Since they have their own construction company, any changes get managed quickly. That helps keep things on time and within budget.

Their spaces feel thoughtfully planned. They also do bathroom remodeling and interior design, not just kitchens.

When I met the team, I could tell they value respect and teamwork in how they work with clients. That makes a difference.

Rating: 4.9 (36 reviews)
Location: 1520 N Sedgwick St APT 5A, Chicago, IL 60610
Contact: (312) 274-2299
Website: Visit Website

5) Assembly Squad Chicago inc

I recently visited Assembly Squad Chicago inc, right in downtown Chicago.

The team is sharp and professional, making the kitchen remodeling process feel simple and clear.

Their office on Michigan Avenue has a modern vibe that matches their design approach.

They handle both kitchen and bathroom remodels, plus other construction work.

If you want a contractor who can juggle multiple parts of your project, this is a solid pick.

They’re organized and keep communication open, which helped me feel confident the whole way through.

The crew respected my ideas but also offered helpful tweaks to improve my plans.

They mix creativity with hands-on skills, and the work I saw was clean and finished on time.

They clearly care about customer satisfaction and quality. That’s always a relief.

Rating: 4.9 (82 reviews)
Location: 205 N Michigan Ave Suit 810, Chicago, IL 60601
Contact: (312) 544-9150
Website: Visit Website

6) Arete’ Renovators

I visited Arete’ Renovators’ showroom and was really impressed by how many materials they have on hand.

You can actually touch and see different cabinetry, tiles, and countertops, from granite to marble.

That hands-on experience made it easier to imagine the finished kitchen. During the first consultation, the team takes their time to understand your needs.

They come to your home, measure carefully, and talk through your design ideas and budget. Their clear communication helps set the right expectations from the beginning.

They assign a Project Coordinator who updates you daily with photos and progress reports. That kept me in the loop and made me feel involved at every step.

They also handle permits and approvals, so you don’t have to worry about paperwork.

Before construction begins, they hold a meeting with everyone involved to make sure the plan is clear.

I liked how professional and organized they are. It really helps avoid misunderstandings once work gets underway.

Rating: 5 (35 reviews)
Location: 3821 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Contact: (773) 683-3033
Website: Visit Website

7) 210 Design House

When I walked into 210 Design House, the place felt modern but still inviting.

The showroom’s packed with high-quality cabinetry and furniture, most of it from Italian and American brands.

They show off a range of styles that work for both traditional and contemporary kitchens. It’s a nice mix that doesn’t feel forced.

This family-run business has nearly 30 years of experience. They focus on blending good design with practical function, which really matters in kitchens and bathrooms.

They take on projects of all sizes, from small homes to big apartment buildings. That kind of flexibility is pretty rare.

What really stood out was their attention to detail. The team listens to what you want and sticks with you from start to finish.

Rating: 4.8 (9 reviews)
Location: 210 W Illinois St Floor 1, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: (312) 644-1300
Website: Visit Website

Key Trends in Chicago Kitchen Design

Chicago kitchens in 2025 walk a line between style and function. Homeowners want kitchens that look modern but still feel inviting.

People care about durability and looks, so their choices tend to reflect both. I see a lot of thought put into materials and design styles lately.

Modern vs. Traditional Styles

Modern kitchens here usually have clean lines and a minimalist vibe. Designers love stainless steel appliances, glass surfaces, and open layouts.

It’s all about easy maintenance and a sleek appearance. I get why that appeals—less clutter, more light.

Traditional kitchens bring in warmth with wood cabinets and classic touches. Chicago homeowners seem to like combining old and new, which makes transitional styles a favorite.

Flat-panel cabinets with classic hardware are everywhere. That combo keeps things fresh but still familiar.

Lighting matters a lot too. Under-cabinet LEDs add modern energy savings while keeping a cozy feel.

Popular Materials and Finishes

Durability is non-negotiable, but style follows close behind. Quartz countertops are everywhere because they resist scratches and stains, and come in tons of colors.

Cabinet finishes usually lean matte or satin. Those finishes hide fingerprints better than gloss—honestly, a lifesaver if you cook a lot.

Wood tones range from light and natural to deep, dark stains. There’s plenty of room for personal taste.

Smart surfaces like porcelain tile backsplashes and concrete floors keep popping up. They’re tough and look good, which suits city living.

Here’s a quick overview of common materials:

Material	Benefit	Common Use
Quartz	Durable, stain-resistant	Countertops
Wood	Warm, classic feel	Cabinets
Porcelain Tile	Easy to clean, stylish	Backsplashes, floors
Stainless Steel	Sleek, modern	Appliances, sinks

All these choices make kitchens that can handle daily life and still look great.

How to Evaluate a Kitchen Designer

Picking the right kitchen designer means looking at their experience and the quality of their past work. How well do they communicate? That’s a big one too.

Credentials and Certifications

I always start by checking a designer’s credentials. Certifications from groups like NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) show they’ve had proper training and stick to industry standards.

Those credentials mean they understand kitchen layouts, safety, and materials.

Licenses matter as well—a licensed designer follows local rules, which helps you avoid legal headaches.

Insurance is important in case something goes wrong. I also like to ask how long they’ve been in business.

More experience usually means they can handle surprises better and know what works in real homes.

Portfolio Review Tips

When I look at a portfolio, I try not to get distracted by pretty photos. I want to see variety in styles so I know the designer can handle different tastes.

Details matter—cabinet layout, lighting, and where they put appliances. All those things affect how the kitchen works day to day.

If I can, I look for before-and-after photos. They give a clearer idea of how much the designer can actually transform a space.

Reading reviews tied to specific projects helps too. It makes it easier to judge reliability and quality, which isn’t always obvious from pictures alone.

Client Communication Practices

Clear communication really matters in a kitchen design project. I want designers who actually listen to my ideas and take the time to explain options without making things confusing—or rushing through details.

Regular updates make a big difference. I appreciate quick responses to questions, too.

This keeps everything on track and helps avoid those last-minute surprises nobody likes. I always check if the designer will explain budgeting and timelines upfront.

Transparency about costs and schedules shows real professionalism. It also helps me plan better, which is honestly a relief.