"There is a trend toward open floor plans and fewer upper cabinets. Especially when the sink or cooktop is placed under a window with views of nature."
- Paul Dybdahl, architect, Middleton, Wisconsin
"My clients can't live without an island. They are so versatile: a work area for large projects like decorating cookies with the kids, preparing complex recipes, staging dining room dinners or informal buffet serving."
- Liz Firebaugh, kitchen designer, Petoskey, Michigan
"Alternative storage, such as drawers for dishes and tall pantry cabinets for more than food,are increasingly popular."
- Kristin Okeley, kitchen designer, Indianapolis
"Midwesterners have high expectations of this space. It's about lifestyle as much as it is about functionality. They want to hang out in their kitchens with areas for both work and socializing."
- Mick De Giulio, kitchen designer, Chicago