FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Kitchen & Bath Design FAQ

Find answers about planning your project, kitchen and bathroom design, countertops, and cabinet hardware.

General FAQ

Start here for questions about consultations, project coordination, budgets, and our service area.

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How does the kitchen and bathroom design process work?

We start with a consultation to understand your goals, style, and budget. From there, we measure your space, create a personalized design and 3D visualization, help you select products and finishes, and coordinate the materials needed to bring the design to life.

Do I need to visit a showroom to get started?

A showroom visit is the best way to explore cabinetry, countertops, hardware, finishes, and design ideas in person. From there, we can schedule an in-home visit to take measurements and better understand your space.

Can American Home work with my contractor?

Yes. We can work alongside your existing contractor or coordinate with one of the builders we work with. Our team focuses on the design, product selections, and materials needed for your project.

Do you offer options for different budgets?

Yes. We offer a wide range of cabinetry, countertops, hardware, and design options at different price points. Our designers help you balance style, function, and budget throughout the selection process.

What areas does American Home serve?

We serve homeowners throughout Greater Lansing and Mid-Michigan, with showrooms in Okemos, West Lansing, and DeWitt.

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Kitchen Design FAQ

Explore layout, cabinetry, storage, and the details that make a kitchen work for everyday life.

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Should I keep my current kitchen layout or change it?

Start with what works and what gets in your way. Consider movement between work areas, appliance access, seating, and storage. Share those priorities with your designer so you can compare improving the existing layout with a different arrangement. Changes involving plumbing, electrical work, or walls should also be reviewed with your contractor.

What should I consider when choosing kitchen cabinets?

Look beyond the door style and color. Cabinet construction, interior storage, finish care, and available sizes all affect how the kitchen will function. Bring inspiration photos and a list of your priorities so your designer can help you compare options that suit your space and budget.

How can I add more useful storage to my kitchen?

Begin by listing the items that are hardest to store or reach. Drawers, pull-out storage, pantry organization, and corner solutions can make better use of the available space. The right combination depends on your cabinet layout and the options available within your selected cabinet line.

Should I choose my appliances before finalizing the kitchen design?

Confirming appliance models before the design is finalized helps establish cabinet openings, clearances, and placement. Share the manufacturer specifications for appliances you plan to keep or purchase. Your designer and contractor can then coordinate the layout around those requirements.

How do I coordinate cabinets, countertops, and hardware?

Choose a starting point, such as a cabinet finish or countertop sample, and compare the other selections alongside it. Consider undertones, texture, contrast, and the lighting in your home. Viewing samples together can help you create a coordinated kitchen without making every finish identical.

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Bathroom Design FAQ

Plan a bathroom around your space, daily routines, storage needs, and preferred finishes.

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How do I choose the right bathroom vanity size?

Consider the available wall space, door swings, walking room, and the location of existing plumbing. Think about how much countertop and storage space you need as well. Bring measurements or a floor plan to the design discussion, and confirm final dimensions before ordering products.

Can a small bathroom still have useful storage?

Yes. A carefully selected vanity, drawer organization, or storage that uses available wall space can help reduce clutter. Start by identifying what you need to keep in the bathroom. Your layout, clearances, and product dimensions will determine which storage options fit comfortably.

Should I choose a single-sink or double-sink vanity?

Think about how many people use the bathroom at the same time and how much countertop space you want to keep. A double-sink vanity needs enough room for both sinks and comfortable use. A single sink may leave more usable counter and storage space in a smaller bathroom.

What should I consider when selecting bathroom materials?

Consider moisture exposure, cleaning requirements, durability, and how the finishes will look together. Products suitable for one location may have different requirements in another. Check the manufacturer guidance for the intended use, and discuss ventilation, waterproofing, and installation requirements with your contractor.

Can I coordinate my vanity, countertop, and bathroom hardware?

Yes. Compare samples of the vanity finish, countertop, and hardware together, along with any fixtures or finishes you plan to keep. They can share a similar tone or provide a deliberate contrast. Your designer can help you build a coordinated selection around the look you prefer.

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Countertops FAQ

Compare countertop materials, appearance, care requirements, and how they fit the rest of your design.

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How do I choose a countertop material for my kitchen or bathroom?

Consider how you use the space, the amount of maintenance you prefer, your design goals, and your budget. Compare samples and the care requirements for each product. A surface that suits one household may be less practical for another, so share your everyday needs with your designer.

What is the difference between quartz and granite countertops?

Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces, while granite is natural stone. Both offer a range of appearances, but color variation, care requirements, and individual product characteristics differ. Compare actual samples and manufacturer guidance rather than choosing by material name alone.

How much maintenance will my countertop need?

Maintenance depends on the specific material and finish. Ask about recommended cleaners, stain prevention, heat protection, and whether sealing is required. Follow the care instructions for your selected product; a cleaning routine that suits one countertop may not be appropriate for another.

Can I choose countertops to complement cabinets I am keeping?

Yes. Bring a cabinet door sample or clear photos, along with samples of other finishes you plan to keep. Compare countertop colors and patterns against those existing elements. Seeing the materials together can help you choose a surface that refreshes the room while respecting its current style.

What should I consider when choosing a countertop edge and backsplash?

Consider the overall style, how much visual detail you want, and the options available for your selected countertop. The edge profile and backsplash can support a simple look or add contrast. Review samples together and confirm product compatibility and installation details before making the final selection.

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Cabinet Hardware FAQ

Find answers about knobs, pulls, finishes, sizing, and updating existing cabinetry.

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Should I choose cabinet knobs, pulls, or a combination?

Any of these approaches can work. Consider the cabinet style, the size of the doors and drawers, and what feels comfortable to use. Try handling samples when possible. A combination of knobs and pulls can create a coordinated look when the shapes and finishes work well together.

How do I choose the right hardware size?

Look at the proportions of each door or drawer and how the hardware feels in your hand. Larger drawers may suit a longer pull, while smaller fronts may need a different scale. Compare samples against the cabinetry, and confirm dimensions and placement before drilling new holes.

Does cabinet hardware need to match my faucet and light fixtures?

An exact match is not essential, but the finishes should feel intentional together. Similar undertones can help create consistency, while a limited mix of finishes can add contrast. Compare physical samples where possible because finishes with similar names may look different between manufacturers.

Can I replace cabinet hardware without replacing my cabinets?

Often, yes. Check the condition of the existing cabinets and measure the distance between screw holes on any pulls you are replacing. Matching that spacing can simplify the change. Switching hardware types or sizes may require new holes or repairs, so review the fit before purchasing.

What should I bring when shopping for replacement cabinet hardware?

Bring a sample of the existing hardware, the screw-hole measurements, and photos of the cabinet doors and drawers. A cabinet finish sample is helpful if available. Include the number of pieces you need and any comfort or accessibility preferences so you can compare suitable options.

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Still Have a Question?

Tell us about your kitchen or bathroom project. Our team can help you take the next step.

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For additional background on space planning, explore the NKBA Kitchen & Bath Planning Guidelines.