THE NEXT NEW THING Trends in home design come and go just like fashion, but since it’s much easier to discard last season’s shoes than remodel your kitchen, décor decisions should not be taken lightly. Gary Roberts of Bamboo Homes pays attention to what homeowners want. He shares the kitchen must-haves with the most staying power.

“Granite, granite and more granite is in demand,” Robert says. “Granite in the kitchen has now essentially become standard due to its practicality. The natural beauty pleases the eye while its surface offers incredible durability.”

Oversized cooktop surfaces are red-hot right now, offering four or even six burners, a griddle, grill and warming area. Homebuyers want commercial-grade appliances and gourmet accessories that would delight any chef. “I don’t believe the demand is based on people having larger numbers of children or wanting to return to family dinners with home-cooked meals,” laughs Roberts. “Buyers are more interested in how these appliances look.”

Style points are also driving the desire for separate freezers and refrigerators. “People like the look of two distinct units, one for refrigeration and the other for frozen items,” says Roberts. "Typically, the two appliances are matching and placed side-by-side in the kitchen.”

And coffee stations have caught everyone’s fancy, converting that everyday cup of Joe into a European experience. “We are putting in appliances that grind the beans right there, brew the coffee, steam the milk, make cappuccino, whatever people want,” says Roberts.