DES PLAINES, IL – Kitchens will remain hot remodeling priorities in homes across the United States throughout 2014, according to a Member Profile Study done by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Kitchen remodels remain a top priority for 82% of NARI members. The association says billing for projects done in its 2014 CotY Awards program, which recognizes top projects in 25 categories, will totaled $73 million.

Consumers looking to remodel their kitchens are selecting open space concepts that are both comfortable and practical. Kitchen islands remain a popular trend, according to NARI members. Improving the overall look and feel of the kitchen was most often cited as the main motivating factor by homeowners for remodeling.

One popular trend in kitchen remodeling is mixing different wood tones and finishes to create a custom kitchen look. Additionally built-in accent cabinets to house china or other kitchen utensils, serve as foundation pieces for the kitchen.

Wine storage is also a popular design factored into many kitchen redesigns today. Integrated wine coolers are popular additions, as well as dedicated butler areas for entertaining, sampling and sharing wine with guests are very popular, allowing the cook the opportunity to socialize while doing food prep.

Popular trends in kitchen remodeling include more decorative task lighting features instead of additional upper cabinetry. Pendant lights over kitchen islands, bring style into the mix, while chandeliers in kitchens add an unexpected sparkle of elegance to a working room. Under cabinet lights, controlled by a dimmer, remain popular and provide ambiance for the room.

NARI is the source for homeowners seeking to hire a professional remodeling contractor because members are full-time, dedicated remodelers who follow a strict code of ethics, observing high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility.