The kitchen is the central hub of the home, where new and trendy products rule your kitchen design. During a kitchen remodeling, look to the kitchen sink and countertop area to make a statement. Here are some "must have" products to consider.

Granite Countertops Still a Big Seller

Granite countertops are a mainstay in upscale kitchen design. They create a sleek, upscale look and are easy to maintain. Look for granite countertops in tan, brown, or black. These colors blend well with current styles in kitchen cabinets, such as:

• Cherry wood with a warm glaze
• Maple wood in a natural finish
• Rustic pine with knots and heavy grains

Economical Way to Add Granite Countertops

This rich natural stone can be costly, however. If you are on a limited budget, consider:

• Adding a laminate countertop on the main kitchen work area and splurging on a granite countertop for the island.
• Talking to your remodeling contractor or a stone fabricator about a granite countertop made from excess materials or a slab with minor flaws. In either case, you can save 20 to 30 percent of the cost.

Kitchen Sink Styles

As you design around a granite countertop, look to the sink to provide form and function. Among the popular materials are:

• Stainless steel
• Cast iron
• Copper
• Solid surface material

Consider Kitchen Sink Size and Shape

If you want real drama in the kitchen sink area, ask your remodeling contractor about a large, apron front sink that has decorative elements along the front. For a more functional kitchen sink, try a two-bowl design or a one-bowl kitchen sink that is ideal for washing pots and pans.

Try Warm finishes on Kitchen Faucet

Nothing finishes off the kitchen sink area like a stylish kitchen faucet. During a kitchen remodeling, the kitchen faucet often becomes a dramatic focal point around the sink area. Among the popular kitchen faucet styles are:

• High arching kitchen faucets
• Two handled kitchen faucets for an old fashioned look
• Pot fillers around the cooking area
• Any style kitchen faucet that has a pull out sprayer for convenience

Focus on the Kitchen Faucet Finish

Instead of the traditional shiny brass kitchen faucet, look for one with a subtle, warm finish. Try satin nickel, brushed chrome or iron rubbed bronze, which has brown tones. These new finishes will make your kitchen faucet stand out from the rest.

About the Author

Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer and founder of www.renovatorsplace.com. She has been a writer of home improvement columns for 15 years. Her articles have appeared in numerous national newspapers and magazines, and on home improvement Web sites.