The dream of homeownership. A beautiful home in the San Francisco Bay Area is a good start, but there's always the question of the kitchen. According to an Isopublic poll, nearly 60-percent of respondents don't like their kitchen.

Finding a kitchen contractor in San Francisco may not be too difficult; finding a good kitchen contractor, however, will prove to be a challenge. According to San Francisco kitchen designer Peggy Deras, Bay Area homes are usually Victorian-era or postwar tract homes. "Neither is suitable for today's living in its original state without compromise to its inhabitants," says Deras.

In order to understand your limitations in kitchen design, you need to first address your needs. Ask yourself some questions. What kinds of cooking do you do? Will your kitchen habits change over time? Do you have a dining room? Do you have children or pets? Each answer will come with its own set of requirements in order to meet the need.

Once your needs are met, you can address your wants. For example, if you would like to frequently entertain guests, you should consider making room for an island or bar in the kitchen, as well as a wine cellar, nook or storage area. If you love fixing up your favorite stir-fry, then go for a gas range, rather than an electric stovetop.

Homes in the Bay Area are often limited by space, especially in San Francisco. Often, you'll find that you have no room for your wants, much less your needs. This is a situation in which a qualified kitchen designer can help you create space or save space, depending on your budget and wishes. A kitchen designer or contractor will also help you complete the layout of your kitchen using computer software, and then move forward with the plans by obtaining the proper permits from the city.

• Countertops: Whether marble, granite, tile, or even wood, kitchen countertops are largely determined by your own aesthetic needs and uses--and, believe it or not, the messiness of your cooking style.
• Appliances: Stainless steel is all the rage lately, as are 'additional' appliances such as mini-sized wine cellars with temperature control. There are now refrigerated ovens with automatic cooking for the homemaker who's also a working professional.
• Layout: Take a look at "Kitchens for the Rest of Us" (Taunton Press; $29.95). This coffee table book is packed with examples of kitchens, some from the Bay Area, that have best utilized space and layout to create impressive renovations.

One final word. If the decisions involved in your kitchen remodel seem overwhelming, consider using a service that offers reviews and ratings of local companies. You'll be able to find information regarding qualified kitchen remodeling professionals who specialize in the San Francisco Bay Area. You'll also find out which remodeling professionals to avoid. Good luck with your kitchen!

http://www.insidebayarea.com/insideout/ci_3254157
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