Kitchens are no longer a simple cooking space. They’ve transformed into the heart of most American homes as a preferred gathering place for family and friends. However, with nearly half of all U.S. homes being 42 years or older, their kitchens may no longer meet modern family needs.

“The way people used their kitchens 42 years ago are no longer the way they're being used,” said Laura Reid Riggin, designer at Woodville House Kitchens in Zelienople. “The kitchen is the centralized family-zone in the house.”

This shift in how families use their kitchens is driving a wave of renovations that prioritize function and flow. Homeowners are increasingly removing full walls and half walls to create open-concept spaces where the kitchen seamlessly connects to other family areas.

Today’s kitchen design focuses on creating spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. Islands remain popular, particularly those with seating that allows families to gather around. Round shapes are especially sought after for their welcoming, communal feel, Riggin said.

One significant trend involves relocating appliances to reduce visual clutter. Under-counter microwaves are becoming standard as designers work to keep countertops clear and showcase design elements like beautiful backsplashes and open shelving.

“We're trying to focus on the functional and pretty things in a kitchen rather than walking in and seeing a stove and a microwave,” Riggin explains. “Having appliances on the counters takes away from the aesthetics.”

Color schemes continue to evolve, with white maintaining its cyclic popularity while warm tones gain traction. Shaker-style cabinet doors and wood grains that differ from traditional 1980s styles are replacing dated looks. Interestingly, wood panels on appliances are experiencing a resurgence after being out of favor, offering homeowners a way to help appliances blend seamlessly into their kitchen's aesthetic, said Riggin.

Today’s modern kitchens accommodate larger appliances. Refrigerators have grown wider and taller over time, requiring more space in kitchen layouts, Riggin warned. This presents challenges for owners of older homes where existing spaces may not accommodate these larger units.

“It can be an issue for owners of older homes because the space isn't wide or tall enough,” Riggin notes. So, when she redesigns, she leaves ample space for future growth.

Larger ranges are also in high demand. Riggin features a 48-inch range in her showroom, noting their popularity stems from their flexibility with dual ovens and additional burners that provide more cooking options for busy families.

A successful kitchen remodel begins with understanding the homeowner's vision and budget, Riggin said. She starts by meeting clients in her showroom, where she can demonstrate different styles and discuss realistic expectations.

“A lot of people don't have any idea what a new kitchen costs, especially for taking out walls or putting in new windows,” she said.

Following the initial consultation, Riggin visits the home to take measurements and observe the existing decor throughout the house. This step is crucial for ensuring the new kitchen integrates seamlessly with the home's overall aesthetic.

“I never want to put a kitchen in a house that's so different from everything else,” she explained. “We want a kitchen to seamlessly melt in with the other decor of the house.”

The design phase can vary significantly in complexity. Some layouts fall into place quickly, while others require working through challenges like puzzles, with solutions developing piece by piece. Once clients approve the preliminary design, installation can be scheduled.

Riggin works exclusively with four trusted installation teams, refusing to work with unfamiliar contractors to protect her reputation for quality work.

“They're like the exclamation point at the end of a sentence,” she said.

Riggin also matches contractors with clients' personalities to ensure the smoothest possible project experience.

Unlike the quick transformations shown on television, real kitchen remodels involve more complexity and potential obstacles. Riggin emphasized that construction projects almost always include minor hiccups that require creative problem-solving.

“This isn't HGTV,” she warned. “If there's construction involved, there's almost always going to be a hiccup. You just work around it.”

Water damage under existing flooring represents one of the most common issues, potentially requiring subfloor replacement. When this occurs, contractors must identify and address the source of the damage to prevent recurrence.

Hidden obstacles within walls can also create challenges. Drainpipes and other utilities may not be apparent until demolition begins, requiring installers to adapt their approach. Riggin's said her teams are equipped to handle these unexpected discoveries creatively.

“It's a kitchen emergency,” she tells clients facing construction challenges. “No one lost their lives. No one was robbed. No one is missing. There's nothing that can't be solved.”

Many homeowners make assumptions about kitchen design that can lead to functional problems. Modern refrigerators, being larger and having more moving parts, can’t be placed directly against walls where doors might be restricted from opening fully.

Similarly, dishwashers and ranges shouldn’t be positioned next to each other to allow for a full range of motion of all moving parts.

Riggin consults with clients on appliance selection, often directing them to Don's Appliance to explore options while providing professional guidance on choices that will work within their design.

While design software has made kitchen planning more accessible to homeowners, Riggin emphasized that professional expertise remains valuable for avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring optimal functionality.

“Everybody thinks they're an expert because they can use design software,” she said. “But there are things that can happen if you're not experienced at designing a kitchen. That's why it's best to work with a trained designer to save you money by preventing mistakes.”

Professional designers also help homeowners avoid trendy choices that may become dated quickly. Riggin deliberately avoids overly current trends, instead focusing on timeless elements that will remain appealing for years.

“If we did every kitchen based on what was in style right now, they'd all look alike, and then there'd be no point in using a designer,” she explains. “It's my job to help them make the space useful and functional while making sure it won't be outdated in a few years.”

For homeowners considering a kitchen remodel, she said the key is to understand the process requires patience, realistic expectations and professional guidance. While the journey may involve unexpected challenges, the result — a kitchen that truly serves as the heart of the home — makes the investment worthwhile.