This $100,000 LA kitchen remodel by West Remodeling Inc., complete with stainless-steel appliances, attractive tile backsplash, high-end countertops and comprehensive lighting plan, illustrates the hottest trends in consumers' kitchen preferences. See more pictures of this dream kitchen below.

Many consumers are remodeling their kitchen because they want to be investment-oriented in their spending.  Kitchens have long been high traffic zones, however today's homeowner wants their kitchen to be not only functional but luxurious.

So, what are consumers looking for in a new kitchen?  What are the most popular finishes, trends and styles? 

Late in 2005, Renovation Experts surveyed over 500 American consumers who had recently built or remodeled their homes, and asked them about the decisions they made in remodeling their kitchens.  What was on the top of their wish-lists?  Homeowners have developed an appetite for high-end kitchens replete with granite countertops, appliances in stainless-steel, and chic lighting solutions.

In the past, a luxury kitchen seemed exclusively for the well-to-do. Our survey however, uncovers that regardless of where they live and what their budget may be, consumers want this opulent look. In order to accomplish the look within the confines of a smaller budget some homeowners make some concessions, like purchasing lower grade appliances in stainless-steel, or deciding to spend more on one or two high-impact finishes and less on other areas of the kitchen that are less important to them.   

The deep cherry lower cabinets are capped with granite countertops providing ample workspace. White upper cabinets, some with glass doors, maintain the clean, open feel of the space.	The dramatic design statement made by the professional-style range and stainless-steel hood reflects what is popular now with homeowners. The colors from the whole kitchen are brought together in the mosaic tile providing a decorative backdrop.

The results of the survey show consumers' design and style preferences. These findings are shown in graphs and charts on the next page of this article. This information can inspire homeowners and help them to map out their objectives. Kitchen designers and contractors alike will also find the data invaluable in understanding their customer's must-haves, expectations and concerns.

Ambient and task lighting are among the must-haves for today's savvy consumers. Notice the effective use of lighting shown here. Spotlights and undercabinet lighting brighten the various work stations, while decorative lighting enhances the overall atmosphere of the kitchen.

Survey Results Menu:

• Type of Home
• Motivation Selecting a Designer or Kitchen Contractor
• Project Budget
• Top Distinctive Features
• Top Kitchen Styles
• Top Kitchen Features
• Top Cabinet Styles
• Top Cabinet Finishes
• Top Appliance Preferences
• Top Countertop Finishes
• Top Faucet Styles
• Top Faucet Finishes
• Top Sink Styles
• Top Sink Finishes