The kitchen remains the “heart of the home” according to Andrea Vollf of Andrea Vollf Interiors. Consumers interest in remodeling their kitchens should consider a well-designed, open, airy layout that integrates the kitchen into the rest of their homes. Jeff Dross also suggests new countertop materials in lieu of granite, such as quartz stone or binding, crushed recyclable glass underneath a solid smooth surface for those seeking green alternatives.