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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Do you have any small kitchen design tips for homeowners who actually cook? Regrets? Or sources that you found useful? The Mainline Kitchen Design blog had a post about how the most expensive kitchens they design are typically never used, so it seems like I generally can't rely on the design sites for this. And I should avoid some items that are often featured (white fireclay sinks, SubZero appliances, pot fillers, etc).

Here's our list so far:
* [b]Kitchen sink[/b]: Wide and deep stainless steel, perhaps this Rohl, or a 32inch ish one. https://www.ferguson.com/product/rohl-culinario-37-78-x-18-in-no-hole-stainless-steel-single-bowl-undermount-kitchen-sink-rruw3616sb/_/R-7525739?fromplp=true&trackSignal=true. This size and material will help with washing lots of big pots, etc. According to Mainline and some other sources, those fireclay ones aren't practical.  Don't have windows by sink go all the way down to the sill as those are difficult to clean.
[/quote]
Agreed. I bought stainless steel sinks online in my last 2 houses and they held up very well. I have an on-the-sink cutting board that I use all the time. Also, having a sink grid will extend the longevity of your sink while only adding a few minutes to the daily clean-up.

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Cooktop[/b]: Induction. Don't bother with Wolf.  Kenji seems to think induction is fine for the vast majority of dishes. Also much easier to clean.* NO pot filler, try to find spot for wet bar/ second sink instead. Mainline said they can cause damage. I also put water in hot water boiler first anyway.
[/quote]

Induction in the way to go! Everyone is Europe uses induction and it is amazing (the environmental benefit is just a bonus). I am not familiar with Kenji, but have been happy with all Wolf/Subzero appliances I have bought in the past.

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Wet bar/ coffee station[/b]: Try to find spot for extra sink (if possible), coffee station, and small drink fridge. Helps with foot traffic and incorporating kitchen into open dining space.
[/quote]

Love this idea and will try to do the same in my next kitchen. We are going back-and-forth about whether to add a prep sink to the island. (The island is already plumbed for it.)

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Hood[/b]: Worth getting one according to another thread. Not sure which kind...seems like some are more about show.
[/quote]

I read the hood thread, but we are happy with the downdraft and will probably keep it. This may be form over function though...

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Oven[/b]: Wall oven. Easier to use for heavy items, helps avoid arm burns (I have many). Don't necessarily need to use up space for a double.
[/quote]

We have a wall-oven and convection microwave combo (rather than double-oven) and love it. Most of the time, all we need is the convection microwave.

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Fridge[/b]: 36 inch, counterdepth is big enough. French door. Don't bother with Subzero, probably do Bosch. Our appliance repairperson said to avoid LG and Samsung, and that Subzero compressor is same as cheaper fridges. Think about fridge placement, as we should avoid foot traffic coming through the cooking area; wet bar/ small drink fridge would also help. Wonder whether we should not both with panels as that would limit options.
[/quote]
I've loved all my Subzero appliances, and the Bosh appliances that we have in our current kitchen are just terrible. I will never buy Bosh again. Not having panels definitely gives you more options. We have  another fridge in the garage and use it all the time.

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Countertops[/b]: Have at least one area of continuous/ longer counter space. Not sure about material. Seems like granite is the most practical, but are there better materials now? Is butcher block ok for the island?  I don't mind if it looks used, but wasn't sure if there are other downsides.
[/quote]
I would go with quartz over granite. Less hassle and more durable. I have never used butcher block. I would worry about water damage...

[quote=Anonymous]
* [b]Storage[/b]: Drawers are better than cabinets. Can place pull out drawers for pans under the cooktop, like here https://www.thekitchn.com/cooks-country-editor-eva-katzs-homey-hardworking-kitchen-kitchen-tour-215478?. Ask for toe kick drawers https://www.kraftmaid.com/toe-kick-drawer/.  Try to find spot for full length pantry, even if it's in the (casual/ open concept) dining area.
[/quote]
Agreed on drawers. I love having a pantry!

[quote=Anonymous]
*[b]Small appliances[/b]: Have spot for toaster oven, which we use more than microwave. [/quote]

If you have space, consider adding a second dishwasher. [/quote]

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