--- title: "The Kitchen Specialist — Kitchen & Bath Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-kitchen-specialist-pfvwus-pf~218125085 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~218125085.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "The Kitchen Specialist" category: ["Kitchen & Bath Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1b939eff040235fd_8071-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "3407 University Dr., Durham, North Carolina 27707, United States" latitude: 35.9631 longitude: -78.9315 phone: "(919) 490-4922" website: http://thekitchenspecialist.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 35 best_of_houzz_awards: 5 followers: 125 last_updated: 2026-09-12 --- # The Kitchen Specialist Original Houzz profile: [The Kitchen Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-kitchen-specialist-pfvwus-pf~218125085) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Kitchen & Bath Designers - **Location:** Durham, NC - **Serves:** Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Morrisville, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Gorman, Research Triangle Park - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (35 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2015–2019), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves At The Kitchen Specialist, we have been creating elegant kitchens for more than 25 years, using our expertise and creative vision to design countless kitchens and bring our clients' dreams to life. Today, infinite choices are available to anyone who is thinking about building or re-designing a kitchen. However, there are few places where you can rely on the eye of a professional kitchen designer to help you make the right design and material choices. That is why The Kitchen Specialist is unique. Our design experts know that it takes planning, knowledge, and careful attention to the small details to help you create that special space that will enhance your lifestyle and give you pleasure for years to come. ### Services Provided - Kitchen Design - Custom Cabinets - Bathroom Design - Custom Kitchen Cabinets - Custom Bathroom Vanities - 3D Rendering - Custom Pantries - Mudroom Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Pantry Design - Custom Cabinet Doors - Kitchen Remodeling - Bathroom Remodeling ### Areas Served - Durham - Cary - Chapel Hill - Apex - Morrisville - Carrboro - Hillsborough - Gorman - Research Triangle Park ### Typical Job Cost $10,000 - 2 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | The Kitchen Specialist | | Address | 3407 University Dr., Durham, North Carolina 27707, United States | | Phone | (919) 490-4922 | | Website | http://thekitchenspecialist.com | | Followers on Houzz | 125 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/thekitchenspecialistinc/ - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-kitchen-specialist-inc./about/ - Blog — http://thekitchenspecialist.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [The Kitchen Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-kitchen-specialist-pfvwus-pf~218125085) - **Website:** http://thekitchenspecialist.com - **Phone:** (919) 490-4922 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 - **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2015–2019), for Service. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [National Kitchen & Bath Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-kitchen-and-bath-association-pfvwus-pf~1351084655) - [North Carolina Home Builders Association](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/north-carolina-home-builders-association-pfvwus-pf~93544693) - [NKBA Eastern Carolinas](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nkba-eastern-carolinas-pfvwus-pf~2048082878) - [HBA of Durham, Orange & Chatham](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/hba-of-durham-orange-and-chatham-pfvwus-pf~1989637100) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 35 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 10.0 - Communication: 10.0 - Value: 10.0 ### Reviews **★ — HU-385406332, Aug. 2022** > We spent almost $200,000 on cabinets in a renovation. > We had an installation problem (per their own installer) and they refused to cover the cost of the repair. > I would never use this company again. **★★★★★ — E Ross, Jan. 2019** > A friend who had worked with the Kitchen Specialist on several projects recommended Mac Junker when we were ready to tackle our kitchen renovation. And, Mac was great to work with! She has the perfect combination of design knowledge, creativity, great listening skills, and true kitchen expertise - all translating into our loving every detail of our kitchen transformation. Mac was always available to answer questions, work out a problem's solution, or smooth the way for the best decision. She knew exactly what I wanted and made it happen. We couldn't be more pleased! **★★★★★ — Ann Koermer, June 2018** > My husband and I recently (April, May 2018) used Mary Leigh McDonald of The Kitchen Specialist (Durham, NC) to help us in the total renovation of our kitchen. > > We are extremely pleased with the results. In addition our experience with Mary Leigh was outstanding. We would certainly recommend her to others without hesitation. > > Mary Leigh was instrumental in all aspects of the kitchen design. She was very professional, easy to reach, prompt, followed through on all commitments and details and delivered a fantastic product. > > Mary Leigh assisted us on each step of the process including, cabinet, tile, appliance and countertop selection as well as steering us to excellent suppliers. She knew when to offer spot on design and help in the selection process without being overbearing or imposing her personal tastes or preferences. > > We are thrilled with our new kitchen and glad to recommend Mary Leigh MacDonald highly. > > We also would like to add that we enjoyed the whole renovation and we are very proud to show our new kitchen to our friends and neighbors. **★★★★★ — Carla Wright, March 2018** > Mac Junker, of The Kitchen Specialist, has to be one of the most talented and professional Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer in the Triangle area. From the measurement of the kitchen space through every precious design detail, she was knowledgeable, accommodating, and responsive. She keep me abreast of any scheduling changes (due to inclement weather). > > At the time of delivery, she was at my residence (ahead of the truck) ready to receive and inspect the cabinetry. In addition, The Kitchen Specialist showroom has a great selection of cabinets. No matter your style, you WILL find the perfect products needed to create a kitchen beyond your highest imaginings. I certainly did! **★★★★★ — Suellen Aldina, Jan. 2018** > Mary Leigh was fantastic to work with! She made the entire process easier by setting up appointments and going with me to review options for cabinets, counter tops, light fixtures, sinks and more! > Her eye for detail, her skills in interior design and providing CAD drawings and making excellent recommendations were so helpful throughout the entire project. > Mary Leigh was a pleasure to work with, always punctual, professional and we had fun doing this project together. **★★★★★ — C Spooner, Dec. 2017** > When we bought our Fearrington Village home, we knew the tiny galley kitchen wouldn't work, but I convinced my husband it was fixable. Thanks to Mary Kate Bedell, it was! New to NC, we contacted The Kitchen Specialist based on their Houzz reviews, and the reviewers didn't steer us wrong. Mary Kate understood our style from her very first visit and paid close attention to our priorities and budget. The galley kitchen is still a galley kitchen, but Mary Kate made it beautiful and so very functional that it doesn't need to be any bigger. > Mary Kate's professional guidance made the many choices much, much easier. Her suppliers and professional contacts are top notch, especially DiRienzo Builders who managed the construction side. Her cabinet installer, Stephen, is an artist---he took great care with every detail in appearance and function. > We've been through several kitchen and bath remodels in the past, but this one was the best: > lowest in stress, highest in end result, all thanks to Mary Kate Bedell and Marc DeRienzo. **★★★★★ — Rob & Sara Euler, Oct. 2017** > We purchased a home on a wonderful property adjacent to the University of North Carolina campus in Chapel Hill, NC, in 2015, thinking that a small addition would make it perfect for our retirement. That morphed into a $1 million+ renovation that included reconfiguration of interior spaces, relocating garage and driveway entrance, and other outdoor spaces. After selecting a great builder and architect, we chose Kitchen Specialist to help with the creation of a new kitchen/family room/powder/laundry room space, a high-end outdoor kitchen, as well as renovation of three full bathrooms attached to the bedrooms in the house. Mary Kate Bedell was outstanding from the start, taking a very efficient, business-like approach to the project, but most importantly helping us select the most wonderful cabinetry, countertop, tile, lighting, and hardware materials for beautiful spaces. **★★★★★ — Steve Tippie, July 2017** > The Kitchen Specialist greatly exceeded our expectations on our recent renovation of a kitchen and two bathrooms - all to-the-studs, gut jobs. Our consultant, Mary Kate, provided top notch expertise in designing the rooms (Thanks for being persistent on the soffit removals!) and guiding our materials choices. She listened carefully to our wishes and requirements and worked closely with us throughout the process, making it an enjoyable and collaborative process. > > We were extremely satisfied with the contractor, DiReinzo Builders, and the cabinet installer, Darren, both of whom she recommended. It was a very tight team and worked well together. Every single detail was followed through carefully and quickly, and the job didn’t finish until we were all in agreement everything was completed to our satisfaction. > > At one point, Darren noticed a slight imperfection in the finish of one of the floor to ceiling cabinet doors. Mary Kate handled it quickly and efficiently, making sure the replacement was consistent in grain and color and the manufacturer made it a rush order. Mary Kate delivered the door personally. > > Mary Kate demonstrated exceptional integrity and attentiveness to the project and her communications were right on target, same with the builder. At no time during the lengthy process did we feel abandoned, and considering the changes we made during the process, the project finished on time and within our budget range (kudos to The Kitchen Specialist and DiRienzo). > > We highly recommend The Kitchen Specialist and Mary Kate! **★★★★★ — Molly Frommer, May 2017** > Mary Kate is creative, detail-oriented, and flexible, and she has excellent vision. We worked with Mary Kate at Kitchen Specialist on our home renovation, which entailed remodeling the kitchen and family room, as well as building a small addition. Throughout the project, Mary Kate was mindful of our lifestyle and budget, patient with our decision-making, and team-oriented (she coordinated with our architect on design elements and recommended an outstanding contractor, who we used and loved). Mary Kate worked tirelessly from start to finish, is extremely knowledgeable about her craft, and quickly fixed a few minor issues that popped up during installation. Our home would not be the same without her! **★★★★★ — Laura Baxley, Aug. 2016** > We worked with Mary Kate of The Kitchen Specialist to renovate our dated kitchen. She had terrific ideas and helped us create our ideal plan. In addition, she listened to our vision for flow, appearance, and functionality, and she incorporated our wishes so that our end product truly is our dream space. **★★★★★ — kkpeterson123, July 2016** > Mary Kate Bedell is a pleasure to work with. She guides you easily through dozens of decisions by first listening and getting to know your tastes and preferences, then offering thoughtful suggestions. I also had a few tricky space problems, but she came up with creative, practical solutions that I am really happy about. **★★★★★ — Dream Kitchen Builders, July 2016** > I've known Mary for over 20 years, both professionally and personally. I am always impressed with the creativity and high quality of her kitchen designs. If you haven't been to visit The Kitchen Specialist showroom lately, I would highly recommend it. Mary's integrity and dependability is exceptional. I highly recommend Mary Liebhold and The Kitchen Specialist. ## Selected projects - [Contemporary Stunner](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-stunner-pj-vj~2613450) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 4 - [Red, Gray, and Cherry City Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/red-gray-and-cherry-city-kitchen-pj-vj~685404) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 4 - Description: Open floor plan kitchen with SieMatic cabinetry, Silver Pearl granite, stainless steel, and Brazilian Cherry Butcher Block countertop. - [Contemporary Loft](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-loft-pj-vj~2613430) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 3 - [Transistional Charm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transistional-charm-pj-vj~2613456) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 7 - [Craftsman Style](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/craftsman-style-pj-vj~2686215) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 3 - [Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-pj-vj~2613468) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 4 - [Transistional White Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transistional-white-elegance-pj-vj~2613446) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 5 - [Black & White Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/black-and-white-elegance-pj-vj~2613463) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 6 - [Pure Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pure-elegance-pj-vj~2432629) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 6 - [Modern Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-elegance-pj-vj~2432556) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 2 - [Our Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/our-kitchens-pj-vj~585453) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 10 - [Distinctive Elegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/distinctive-elegance-pj-vj~2432634) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 2 - [Elegant Chapel Hill Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/elegant-chapel-hill-remodel-pj-vj~2432344) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 5 - [Transitional Charm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transitional-charm-pj-vj~2432553) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 2 - [Anegre Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/anegre-contemporary-pj-vj~888367) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 3 - [Southern Charm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/southern-charm-pj-vj~624853) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 3 - [Durham Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/durham-farmhouse-pj-vj~2432563) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 1 - [bistro and white contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bistro-and-white-contemporary-pj-vj~623076) - Location: Chapel Hill, NC - Photos: 4 - [Historic remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-remodel-pj-vj~789297) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 3 - [Durham Transistional Beauty](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/durham-transistional-beauty-pj-vj~2432613) - Location: Durham, NC - Photos: 2 [See all 45 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-kitchen-specialist-pfvwus-pf~218125085) ## Ideabooks - [wine](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/77279665/list/wine) — 2 ideas - [Pro Minute Video](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/67671107/list/pro-minute-video) — 18 ideas - [game table lights](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/52669795/list/game-table-lights) — 6 ideas [See all 3 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/tksinc) ## Community Q&A **Q: what kind of products are these cabinets made of?** *(in Photo Questions)* need cabinets 30"w x 42"h...3 cabinets. space of wall is 90" Thanks A: Hi Ruthene, Our cabinets can be made from different materials and it varies from line to line. Usually, cabinets have an furniture board or plywood box. The doors can be made from materials ranging from solid wood to aluminum framing, depending on your individual tastes and needs. Thanks! TKS **Q: do only certain brands of refrigerators allow panels like this one. ?** *(in Photo Questions)* i like the cabinet front refrigerator . how do you get one like this? A: These are by Sub Zero, but many different manufacturers make built-in units that take panels. I would not recommend putting panels on a unit that is not a "built-in" **Q: orange hanging lights brand?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Unfortunately, the manufacturer discontinued this pendant, so they are no longer available. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-12.*