---
title: "Design Alternatives — Kitchen & Bath Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/design-alternatives-pfvwus-pf~218580745
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~218580745.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Design Alternatives"
category: ["Kitchen & Bath Designers"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/3f33b6dd01b10396_1044-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "4000 E. 450 S., Lafayette, Indiana 47909, United States"
latitude: 40.3228
longitude: -86.8881
phone: "(765) 477-1251"
website: http://www.MyDesignAlternatives.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 7
best_of_houzz_awards: 1
followers: 44
last_updated: 2026-08-18
---

# Design Alternatives

Original Houzz profile: [Design Alternatives](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/design-alternatives-pfvwus-pf~218580745)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Kitchen & Bath Designers
- **Location:** Lafayette, IN
- **Serves:** Indianapolis, Lafayette, West Lafayette, Logansport, Monticello, Shadeland, Dayton, Monroe, Clarks Hill, Linden, Westpoint, Romney, New Richmond, Stockwell, Colburn
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (7 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 500 Ideabook Saves
- Online consultation
- Woman owned
- 25 years in business

Although Design Alternatives is a 31 yr. old company, we bring over 41 years of the industry experience to design unique spaces custom tailored to you. Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer Susan Benedict offers the expertise needed to create a useful, effective kitchen or bath space. Experience and creativity allow her to make your space not only beautiful, but more importantly all your functional needs will be addressed, if not surpassed! As a certified designer, Susan has faced many unique challenges in creative solutions, preparing her for any size job. As you peruse the portfolio of all her own work, you can get a glimpse of the amazing results Susan produces with her expert kitchen design in Lafayette, IN.

The kitchens and baths created by Design Alternatives feature the latest designs and technology. Only the highest quality products are used. Susan Benedict’s certifications and memberships ensure expertise and industry-leading methods. These include NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association), NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) and CAPS (Certified Aging in Place Specialist). Susan designs, draws floor plans, sells products and oversees your project to ensure you get results you love. Design Alternatives also specializes in kitchen designs in Lafayette, IN that are tailored to seniors who would prefer to live their golden years from the comfort of their own home. Clients of all ages enjoy working with Design Alternatives for the many advantages we offer:

•We are locally owned and operated, established in 1994.
Owner Susan Benedict is a Certified Kitchen Designer and Certified Aging in Place Specialist.
•We are proud members of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the National Association of Home Builders.
•Our designs employ the latest features and technology to customize your space for your unique needs.
•We are available on Saturdays by appointment.

Kitchen & Bath Design & Consulting (CKD)
Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)

### Services Provided

- Kitchen Design
- Custom Cabinets
- Bathroom Design
- Custom Kitchen Cabinets
- Custom Bathroom Vanities
- 3D Rendering
- Custom Countertops
- Custom Pantries
- Lighting Design
- Design Consultation
- Floor Plans
- Laundry Room Design
- Universal Design
- Project Management
- Mudroom Design
- Custom Walk-in Closets
- Outdoor Kitchen Design
- Pantry Design
- Sustainable Design
- Basement Design
- Drafting
- Handicap-Accessible Design
- Custom Cabinet Doors
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Bathroom Remodeling
- Aging in Place
- Tile Installation
- organization/storage

### Areas Served

- Indianapolis
- Lafayette
- West Lafayette
- Logansport
- Monticello
- Shadeland
- Dayton
- Monroe
- Clarks Hill
- Linden
- Westpoint
- Romney
- New Richmond
- Stockwell
- Colburn

### Typical Job Cost

$500 - 250,000

Tailored solutions to fit your individual needs.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Design Alternatives |
| Address | 4000 E. 450 S., Lafayette, Indiana 47909, United States |
| Phone | (765) 477-1251 |
| Website | http://www.MyDesignAlternatives.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 44 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/designalternativeslafayettein
- Blog — www.MyDesignAlternatives.com

## Offers

Web-Based Design During COVID19! _Available for Virtual Meetings_

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Design Alternatives](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/design-alternatives-pfvwus-pf~218580745)
- **Website:** http://www.MyDesignAlternatives.com
- **Phone:** (765) 477-1251

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- State President of Indiana Chapter of NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association)
- Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer, Aging In Place Specialist
- Chrysalis Award Winner 2019, Best Outdoor Living Award -Indiana Builder's Association -2023.
- 2019 NKBA Design Competition -Round 2 Finalist

- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), 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)
- [Builders Association of Greater Lafayette](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/builders-association-of-greater-lafayette-pfvwus-pf~1225325791)
- [Indiana Builders Association, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/indiana-builders-association-inc-pfvwus-pf~1418621277)
- [NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/nahb-certified-aging-in-place-specialist-pfvwus-pf~471784673)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 7 reviews**

### All 7 reviews

**★★★★ — Zhao Ma, Feb. 2020**

> Susan was really nice and helpful. She helped us design and make arrangement to install cabinets for a kitchen island. We had some issues with how our kitchen island cabinets were installed and Susan tirelessly worked to help us. Not only she got her own cabinet guy to come and help line up the cabinet doors and drawers, she also made multiple trips herself to do touch-ups and other fixes. She tried her best to make sure we are happy with the final results of the kitchen island.

**★★★★★ — Verle & Janet Whaley, Jan. 2020**

> We don't very often write a review or give our opinion to or about things we have done at our home.
> We had Susan a few years ago suggest room colors.  We were very pleased with the results.
> I'm leading up to December of 2019.  Susan again came to our rescue!  She helped us again choose colors to coordinate with our new furniture and carpet in our living room.  She has far exceeded our hopes!
> We, as well as our guests, are so pleased with the restfulness of the colors and coordination.
> Thank you so much Susan!  We would recommend Susan, Design Alternatives, for all home decorating and remodeling before you start.

**★★★★★ — Frank Szendrey, Jan. 2020**

> Susan helped us remodel our kitchen, designing both the kitchen and a new walk in pantry.  She provided us with great ideas for storage, and ensured the design was both stylish and functional.  Susan went above and beyond to find us custom cabinets and hardware that are absolutely perfect.  We couldn't be happier with both our kitchen and pantry.

**Comment from Design Alternatives:**

> Thank you for the kind words Frank! Your kitchen is not only a winner, it's a trendsetter!

**★★★★★ — Lois Maickel, Jan. 2020**

> If ever you have watched HGTV and the program "Love It or List It" then you know of a gal called Hillary.  Susan Benedict was/is my "Hillary".  She was there for me every step of the way, she did all the running around for my selections when it came time for sinks, faucets, lighting, etc.  She saved me the trouble of going from place to place.  She has a wonderful sense of what goes together, suggestions, ideas.  I love my new master bathroom and so does everyone who comes to see.
> Susan has a pleasant personality, easy to get along with, very professional.  This gal knows what she is doing!  Knows products, materials.  Just a delight to work with.  We shared many moments of concern and laughter.
> Give this gal 5 stars!

**★★★★★ — Nancella Dobbins, Jan. 2020**

> Susan helped me with design enabling much greater use of space. She took care of all details in ordering and securing the materials needed.  She gave excellent directive as to which specialists needed to do the work.  She helped me stay within budget.   I would certainly recommend Susan to anyone needed assistance to upgrade or build new.  I love my home now and think often about how much Susan helped me.

**Comment from Design Alternatives:**

> Wow Nan!  Thank you so much! After all these years it's great to know that the services we provided are still memorable and making an impact!

**★★★★★ — melodynoah57, Jan. 2020**

> When I contacted Susan I knew we needed a big remodel but just not sure how to go about it.  I needed someone to take my complaints of what I had and create a dream plan.  This is just what Susan did and more.  Susan came up with a beautiful design for our kitchen and living space.  She found us a contractor that was perfect for the job.  We have so much respect for him and the craftsmanship of his work.  Susan helped me so much with all the details, choosing counters, cabinets, windows and even the new lighting and electrical needs.  I am still blown away by the metamorphosis that transpired.  It is a dream come true!

**★★★★★ — Corinne Donat Zuege, Feb. 2015**

> Susan Benedict is the ultimate interior design professional. Susan designed a new kitchen for us with "aging in place" concepts. It's amazing! She listens well, is dependable in communication, and has great follow-up!
> I highly recommend her for your next project.

## Selected projects

- [Miller Master Bath](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/miller-master-bath-pj-vj~5471248)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 10
- [Farmhouse Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/farmhouse-kitchen-pj-vj~2967405)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 1
- [Swoverland Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/swoverland-kitchen-pj-vj~1416340)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 3
- [A Chef's Dream](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-chef-s-dream-pj-vj~251054)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 16
- [Kenney Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenney-remodel-pj-vj~5471803)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 16
- [Kessler Project](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kessler-project-pj-vj~6043083)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 15
- [Showroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/showroom-pj-vj~1405606)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 1
- [Fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fireplaces-pj-vj~1418650)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 1
- [Zuege Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/zuege-kitchen-pj-vj~1416313)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 6
- [Holden Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/holden-bathroom-pj-vj~5473527)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 6
- [Storage-Interior Cabinets-Cutlery Divider](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/storage-interior-cabinets-cutlery-divider-pj-vj~1963694)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 8
- [Dream Kitchen's](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dream-kitchen-s-pj-vj~1168462)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 1
  - Description: Miele 30" Induction cooktop, Miele Tempori Grill, Miele 48" Island Range Hood:adjustable heigth Custom Cupboards Knotty Alder wide Rail Shaker cabinetry, recessed arched glass tile niche, tiled niche, LED accent arched niche, granite countertops, 2" x 6" white subway backsplash tile, Polished Nickel hardware, 2" wood blinds with ladder tape
- [Aging In Place](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/aging-in-place-pj-vj~251039)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 3
- [Shoe Storage Drawer](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shoe-storage-drawer-pj-vj~767818)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 1
- [Reconstituted Veneers:Purdue Solar Detathlon House 2012](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reconstituted-veneerspurdue-solar-detathlon-house-2012-pj-vj~251066)
  - Location: Lafayette, IN
  - Photos: 3
- [Oreovicz Project](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oreovicz-project-pj-vj~6043098)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13

[See all 16 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/design-alternatives-pfvwus-pf~218580745)

## Ideabooks

- [Gibson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/180733794/list/gibson) — 17 ideas
- [Barn Office](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/156551977/list/barn-office) — 42 ideas
- [wood  and gray tops](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/168636320/list/wood-and-gray-tops) — 6 ideas
- [Dawn Hayes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/138341025/list/dawn-hayes) — 112 ideas
- [Cheryl COffin](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/143940103/list/cheryl-coffin) — 3 ideas
- [Kenney Remodel-Tuscan](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/143026702/list/kenney-remodel-tuscan) — 9 ideas
- [Susan Powell](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111379436/list/susan-powell) — 18 ideas
- [Mary Beth Kenney](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/105040994/list/mary-beth-kenney) — 9 ideas
- [Hardesty](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/99242831/list/hardesty) — 25 ideas
- [Amy Haseman](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/89274556/list/amy-haseman) — 23 ideas
- [Lacey Jacobs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84750365/list/lacey-jacobs) — 21 ideas
- [Jacobs Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84806845/list/jacobs-kitchen) — 1 idea
- [Kathryn oreovicz](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84726960/list/kathryn-oreovicz) — 30 ideas
- [Melody Noah](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/82109461/list/melody-noah) — 2 ideas
- [Susie Eros](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80643177/list/susie-eros) — 1 idea
- [Ronda Ooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72997430/list/ronda-ooms) — 21 ideas
- [Gretchen Miller](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/57003608/list/gretchen-miller) — 1 idea
- [Jen Larson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56036640/list/jen-larson) — 3 ideas
- [exterior colors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20919625/list/exterior-colors) — 21 ideas
- [fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20743673/list/fireplaces) — 4 ideas

[See all 20 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/susanbenedict)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Small Bathroom door question** *(in Design Dilemma)*

I have a small bathroom 5x8' with the sink next to the window. (See pic) I would like to place the door so the window doesn't get blocked. In researching the question, I've come across the setup below that would not block the window but seems would bang the knees of anyone sitting down. The site shows this as the standard way to place the door in order to hide the toilet but to me it seems that the door should swing toward the wall on the left (where my window would be). What are peoples thoughts on this setup. My alternative would be to have the door swing out. Thanks

A: I would recommend you also consider where the bathroom is placed in your home. If it is placed centrally in the home or near bedrooms the door opening toward the toilet may not be as great a problem as if the door is directly off the foyer and toilet is exposed when door is open.  You also might want to check your local code. Door swinging out into hallway is against code here because of fire egress.

**Q: Advice needed! Middle of remodel, getting transferred out of state!** *(in Design Dilemma)*

I posted this to an old thread Anyone tired of their white subway tile backsplash yet? because
in my search online for "are white subway tiles outdated or still in
style" this was one of the results. I find it interesting that the thread in the link above was
started five years ago (when I was not even planning a remodel and
oblivious to the subway tile trend/look) and now that I am in the stage
of selecting my backsplash, it seems to me, that subway tile is still
very popular. However, having said that, I too wonder, as the original
poster, if you have tired of it, or if it's "on it's way out." (Other
than if you have a farmhouse style home or other type period home that
calls for subway tile)
I had a beautiful cement tile chosen and we have found out we are
being transferred (right after we are nearing the completion stage of
our two year remodel) and we may keep the house and let our two twenty
year old's rent it from us, or we might have to sell. So either way, I
am now making more neutral selections (and less expensive) in case we
sell now, or when we do sell in the future.
Would
you still choose white subway tile for your backsplash, especially
if you might have to sell in the next year? And if not, what other,
"neutral" kind of tile would you go for? 
I am having a hard time letting go of my vision of my lovely little remodel, to just lowering expenditures, making this a neutral, but nice finished home. I can't leave it in the stage it's in, we have already invested too much to sell it now as a "needs work" house. Thank you!

A: Excellent, but don't forget some type of pencil liner tile or stone to separate the subway from the herringbone!

**Q: What is the flooring?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: 12" x 12 vinyl tiles

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-18.*