Answers

Most fail to take the time and write down the scope of work they need to have completed. Think of all the trades involved in a kitchen project. Will you need new counter tops? cabinets? sink, faucet? are you putting in new appliances? Range hood or microwave oven? are you adding or removing lighting? Many go stright to a cabinet suppier when they actualy may need a contractor or better yet a Design build firm. Most cabinet supplies are not properly licenced or qualified to install counter tops, plumbing (sink, faucet, dishwasher) install appliances (ehxhust hood, reinstall outlets) Etc. They usally are only licenced to install cabinets. Ask to see the licence. This will eliminate the pretenders.

Best bet is to list the scope of your project and talk to a company that is licenced to Design, build and install your project.

Being too trendy especially if you are going to sell the home in a few years.  Also, if you are staying in your home, installing cheap cabinets like IKEA is a big mistake.

Here is a list of what "not to do" with kitchen remodeling....

http://freshome.com/2012/10/23/10-mistakes-you-dont-want-to-make-in-your-kitchen-design/

Here is actuall pictures in houzz you can see as well. Good luck!

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/828020/list/kitchen-design-flaws