the kitchen

I remember the Perrot kitchen in California.  It was the size of two large kitchens with double sink areas, double dishwashers, an island long enough to be a serving bar, a wall of stoves and oven burners (think commercial kitchen) and cupboards that went to the ceiling.  The fridge and freezer were stand along (subzero), but David remembers the Butler's pantry best - a separate room for meal preparation - microwave, sink, counter tops, etc that let you prep a meal and then close the door so no one could see the mess!  
Every kitchen should have a hidden walk-in pantry, a center island and breakfast bar, etc.
I am a cross between country and romantic.  Here is a romantic traditional:


 I like the warmth of wood.
Romantic Victorian design (below).  Not that I would use all those different wood colors, but I love carvings and details.

paneled doors:

having a dining area off the kitchen is a plus - if it were a bay window, even better!

Use slide-out drawers in the home for spices and pantry items

Add a small cabinet to extra space in the kitchen for cleaning supply storage.

Install your outlets underneath your cabinets so you don't ruin your backsplash.

Use kitchen drawers as cutting boards you can hide.