More than just a place to cook, the kitchen has become the heart and hub of the home. It’s where we entertain friends, spend time with family, and indulge in a moment alone. The modern kitchen has to be equipped for working, studying, socializing, and hanging out; it should be functional without sacrificing an ounce of style or comfort. Now, homeowners are putting more of themselves into the kitchens they renovate or build, working to create spaces that reflect their personalities and complement the way they live. In Lyn Peterson’s Real Life Kitchens, the acclaimed designer and decorator tells you everything you need to know to transform your kitchen.

This practical book is packed with cutting-edge ideas and information, from the latest options for appliances, countertops, and cabinetry to advances in seating, lighting, flooring, and kitchen configurations. Lyn Peterson’s Real Life Kitchens takes you step-by-step through the decisions you’ll need to make on all of the most important functional and stylish elements.

The Big Picture: Deciding when and why to update, knowing how to optimize your space, nailing down a budget, and learning from the shortcomings of your previous kitchen

The Layout: Thinking outside the traditional kitchen triangle, matching an island to traffic flow, and putting your plan to paper

The Appliances: From cooktops to warming drawers, dishwashers to refrigerators, the latest advances and options in all of the working elements

The Cabinetry: Choosing between ready-made, semi-custom, and custom; judging quality construction; saving money on this most expensive element of your renovation

The Surfaces: Floors, countertops, and backsplashes, from painted to pine, tile to granite to limestone—the choices seem endless, but here’s how to match your budget to the style you want

The Lighting: The looks, the lingo, and the low down on task, natural, ambient, accent, and mood lighting

The Auxiliary Spaces: Pantry and storage options, wine cabinets and cellars, mudrooms, and a “desklet” for kitchen office activities like checking e-mail and scheduling

A Survival Guide: Must-have information for working with contractors, designers, and architects, as well as creating a substitute kitchen while yours is under construction

The Resources: A host of all-important sources to help you start your search

Sprinkled with enlightening recollections from families who are veterans of both high-end and budget-conscious renovations, and packed with no-fuss advice for getting the most out of your space and your budget, Lyn Peterson’s Real Life Kitchens is the key to achieving your dream kitchen.