Using kitchen specialists vs general contractors

You can and should be allowed to choose whoever you want. However, neither an architect nor a GC will take responsibility for other people's work. The idea of having a GC is so they can manage the project for you. We always like using our own crews or subs so we can stand behind our work. If they screw up, it's on us. If you hire another company, that's a different story.

Bottom line, go with who you want, but bear in mind you may run into problems if something goes wrong. Both architect and GC may charge you extra for correcting any major mistakes by your other service providers. Definitely speak with both your potential archi and GC regarding this issue. Companies have slightly different policies when working in conjunction with other subs.

Good Luck.

Hamptonsrmr.com

Nyloftapt,

As a contractor I do prefer to use my own trades to preform certain tasks. However if my clients want to use a different Millshop or Kitchen place I do not have a problem with that. My clients either pay me a nominal fee to supervise the installation or they just let the kitchen people come in and install.

As a designer with an MArch I have worked with a kitchen design company and would not recommend it. The design is not free, it is built into the cost of the product, which I have found to be substandard. Because of this lack of transparency, I would recommend a good millworker in the city working with your contractor for the best outcome. All the Best, Elyse.

HamptonsRMR and Primer05 -- many thanks to you both for the responses, which make a lot of sense. They are very helpful as we start to think about this renovation. Much appreciated!

Elyse -- thanks for your feedback!