Absolutely yes! It's a specialty design are that function is more important than form. There are so many things to know that you coud never keep up with the innovations unless you specialize.

You need the right kitchen designer. I can't imagine having done my kitchen reno without mine!!

What does your renovation involve?

Wife and I collaborated on our kitchen design and are very pleased. We have no corners, just a 22' x 10'6" galley kitchen with a built in double pantry recessed into a short wall a few steps from both range and microwave.

Our sink location was dictated by previous location and window. DW and cabinets for dinnerware and utensils immediately right of sink. The DW and dinnerware area is directly across from dining area through a large walk through.

Our design was easy with no corners and very happy with results (last wall of cabinets due this week).

BUT

Most people need a design professional. I am used to designing spaces having designed newspapers and my wife knew where she wanted things. Our space, after knocking down a wall, was simple to work with.

Be wary of a designer trying to sell you on lots of unnecessary bells and whistles or a particular brand of cabinets. Getting the layout right is the most important aspect of the reno.

Some of our pictures.

yes, a kitchen designer is valuable. they can spot right off an error in traffic flow, and they will be the one ultimately signing off that plans are correct to the cabinet company and installers. even though i designed 100% of my kitchen having someone else be the point person gave me a lot of peace of mind.

I would definitely say yes. Mostly because they are trained to think of things that you may not think of yourself. Like working triangle, prep zones, clearances, and overall functionality. But beyond that typically it is free to work with one. Most cabinet companies offer a designer that you can work with for free. The trick is don't be afraid to switch designers if you find the one you are working with isn't right for you or if they don't know what they are doing. You are allowed to ask for a new designer and you may hurt their feelings but in the long run i'd rather hurt someones feelings than be stuck with a kitchen for 20+ years that I'm not happy with.

i recently saw a dilemma posted where the sad homeowner hadnt left enough clearance in a corner for drawers to open past the adjacent stove. kitchen designers catch things like that, and if they dont the homeowner wouldnt have to pay for the reconfiguration.