Pro Chefs Talk About Home-Kitchen Design

A Sink or Two
A big, deep kitchen sink is a must for chefs; it needs to be generously sized to accommodate large pots. "My big, white porcelain sink works for me," says Pope. "I like the look of it — I have enough stainless steel in my life [at work]. Kreuther recommends, "If possible have two separate sinks; one is for washing vegetables, leaving the other free for dishes." The position of the sink is also important. Stowell likes the sink centrally located, in a line between the refrigerator and the stove, with counters between. Ponzek had a sink installed in her island, "right behind the stove, so I can turn from the stove to this sink with just one step."

When it comes to flooring, chefs favor functionality but also want good looks. Stowell says, "The ideal surface depends on the house." He likes concrete flooring but says it doesn't mesh with the rest of his house. His home has hardwood floors and, in the kitchen, the hardwood works well with the rustic look he favors. Bernstein says the flooring is a favorite part of her kitchen. She brought the terrazzo used elsewhere in her home into the kitchen and loves the look and the durability. Ponzek likes the large rose-tan, terra-cotta tile she has on her kitchen floor so much that this is the second home she's had it in. "It really does hide the dirt of kids and dogs and it cleans up so well, and that is important."