Sign of the design times for kitchens

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ARA – The number of kitchen styles and design options for homeowners to consider during the building and remodeling process is enough to make a person go crazy. Avoid feeling overwhelmed by simplifying your options.

Keep an eye on trends

Traditional? Transitional? Contemporary? National Kitchen & Bath Association recently surveyed more than 350 designers to identify the top trends and styles they tend to incorporate into their kitchen and bath designs. According to this survey, transitional style, a combination of traditional and contemporary, is now the most popular style in both kitchens and bathrooms.

This marks the first time (since the NKBA began tracking annual design trends) that "traditional" is no longer the most common type of design. The survey also showed contemporary is the next most common style – with shaker, arts and crafts and cottage also following as frequently used styles.

Richer, warmer and darker wood species and finishes are dominating in popularity.

"Hickory cabinets are catching on, as the dramatic grain variation is ideal for creating a rustic look," said Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education for QualityCabinets.

Determine your style

While it's good to be aware of the trends, keep in mind that you are the one who will have to live with this kitchen. Incorporate design elements you and your family will enjoy for years to come. If you don't plan to stay long, consider resale value and how kitchen design might help or hurt it.

Determining your personal style is the most crucial step before the kitchen remodeling process can begin (after budgeting, of course). Take pictures of other kitchens and tear out pages from magazines. Scan home and design blogs to get ideas. Apartment Therapy recently revealed the best home design blogs with its award (as nominated and voted by readers), The Homies 2012. These blogs are a good place to start.

Several websites offer great resources and inspiration galleries for homeowners trying to plan their kitchens. QualityCabinets has an Idea Gallery that showcases a wide range of options, from more formal and traditional to sleek and contemporary. Pinterest is another great place to collect home and design ideas.

Work with a professional designer

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While many people think they know their desired kitchen style, many have a difficult time articulating and identifying exactly what they want. A professional designer can help you design a kitchen that is comprehensive and consistent in design style.

The difficult task is designing a room that comes together as a whole versus bits and pieces. This is where a designer comes in and can turn a nice-looking kitchen into one that is stunning and functional. Designers also can help you add a personal flair through the accessories, organizational features, hardware and finishes you choose.