We enlarged the space my ripping out a powder room that was part of the old kitchen (nice to look at when you're cooking!), but not expanding the existing outline. The wood floors match what was already in the rest of the house. Cabinets were locally made but used IKEA glass Rubrik fronts on the island and the uppers.

Thanks to what I learned here, I saved lots of money on appliances by picking up floor items: Fisher Paykel double ovens, Miele six-burner gas cooktop, Ventahood. I already had a Miele dishwasher (the best!) and though I would like a French door refrigerator, I'm keeping the much-repaired GE until it quits. I also had a local sheet metal fabricator cut the backsplash, which I like to so much I'm going to do a mini version behind the sink. I splurged on the Grohe faucet, Rohl dispenser (the Never MT is not a splurge!) and the white carrera marble countertops, which I love. I went with a Ticor sink thanks to all the recommendations here and it's huge.

IKEA was the souurce of the utensil holders, knife rack and trivets. Specialtybottles.com supplied the canisters.

I guess that's it. I love having storage space, I love having the microwave off the counter and out of sight, I love having lots of vertical storage over the ovens and refrigerator. I finally have a pull-out trash (with a recycling bin behind it), which is great!

Again, this site was an enormous help; thanks to all who lend their experiences to newcomers.

Kat :)

May you enjoy many years of cooking in your new space!

Breath taking.

Your now bookmarked as one of my favorites.