Best-Selling Kitchens of 2011

Last year we saw a lot of innovative kitchen designs where designers and architects got creative with storage solutions and working with smaller footprints. You also saw the kitchen open up into the great room and dining areas to create a more functional gathering space.

Here are five of The House Designers' most amazing kitchen designs from 2011:

1This gorgeous rustic kitchen has tons of great built-in storage ideas to maximize space and efficiency. The center island offers extra seating and plenty of workspace, including a full size sink. The rich cream cabinetry and dark hues of the wood floor and exposed wood beams give this home a taste of Old World charm and elegance.


2 One of the newest designs for 2011 is the Cariati House Plan, which features 5-star amenities including this L-shaped kitchen with a marble countertop and seating for four, a formal dining room, sunken media room and breakfast room overlooking the pool and patio.


3 Enjoy the timeless design of this traditional home featuring multipurpose rooms that are open, flexible, and functional. The large kitchen with oversized center island and dining room are a perfect combination that serve similar functions and make for a perfect entertaining space. This is a cook's dream with all the latest appliances and innovative cabinetry to stay organized.


4 An elegantly arched entryway welcomes guests into this efficient kitchen featuring three water-saving faucets, including a pot-filler and beautifully etched cabinetry. Glass doors allow you to showcase your favorite glasses and china. Pendant lighting over the snack bar illuminates the marble countertop.


5 This luxurious home features gorgeous high-end cabinetry rich in detail and storage space. The granite countertop island is the ideal place for food preparation and entertaining. The combination of rich finishes and textures create a beautiful and elegant space.

	Although it's not a new trend, going green is here to stay. It's easy to see the impact you can make on the environment and your utility bills by making a few simple changes like using water-saving kitchen fixtures. Look for fixtures that have been certified to meet the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) WaterSense® labeling criteria to ensure superior performance and water-saving elements.