When we first began as remodeling contractors, there were two basic options for kitchen countertops—ceramic tile and plastic laminate. Occasionally we were asked for butcher block, but almost exclusively laminate or tile were requested.

In the late 1980s, a local countertop fabricator suggested that we add an amazing new solid-surface countertop product to our showroom. It was called Corian. He agreed to supply and install a complete countertop in our showroom free of charge—no strings attached. The top was installed, and almost a year passed with no interest from any of our clients. We tried to interest folks in the innovation; it had the groutless beauty of a plastic laminate and the durability of ceramic tile and was easy to clean, good looking and easy to repair. Yet no one was interested.

We eventually got a call from the fabricator. "Hey, what the heck is going on with you guys? We installed a countertop for you over a year ago and you haven't had a single sale." We couldn't explain it. About a week or so later, a customer asked for a quote on a Corian shower. It turned out to be one of the most beautiful showers we had ever built. For no apparent reason, the product finally began to sell, and folks who remodeled their kitchens regularly asked for prices on ceramic tile, plastic laminate and Corian. Soon after, several other companies began to manufacture solid-surface countertop materials—and the race was on.

A few years passed and our more affluent clients threw a new request into the mix—slab granite. Although not many made the purchase, almost everyone wanted to know the cost. With the coming of Corian—which was more expensive than tile but less costly than slab granite—consumers were slowly moving to fancier and more unusual kitchens. Everyone seemed to want "unusual." Many opted for granite tile. The grout lines in granite tile are narrow and usually colored to closely match the granite. Also, granite tiles typically are 1-foot square—making for even less grout than would be found in a conventional (4x4-inch or 6x6-inch) ceramic tile installation.

As the countertop metamorphosis was taking place, other changes began to occur. Our customers began asking for fancier appliances, better flooring, finer cabinetry and more extravagant lighting systems.

Where the end of a cabinet was once a flat piece of plywood, recessed panels that match the doors are coming on strongly. Adjustable shelves are a standard rather than an option. Concealed (European) hinges are in vogue. Oh, and note that you don't have the best unless they adjust six ways and allow snap-off door removal.

Even cabinet drawers are being scrutinized. The drawer boxes themselves must have dovetailed joints and full extension drawer glides. The dovetail joint is not new, but is the strongest of connections. Also, it is the most costly. Full extension glides allow the drawer to be pulled out all the way. In the open position, no portion of the drawer remains within the cabinet. The entire drawer box is fully available when open. Consumers are even beginning to ask for drawer glides by weight rating. "I want 150-pound glides," one might demand.

Today, consumers are better informed and enjoying the kitchen as much as any room in their home. Where we once found ourselves explaining how to design a kitchen that was simple and comfortable, we now find that the average consumer wants to be surrounded by something that looks like a restaurant—with the luxury of a castle.