Can't wait to renovate your kitchen?  Planning is the one thing you won't want to rush.  We suggest keeping a journal to record how your kitchen is used over a period of several weeks.  Is a shortage of space forcing you to get creative with food storage?  Do you need a traffic cop to get people in and out?  Once you realize what your needs are, you'll be able to think of creative ways to satisfy them.  Consider incorporating some of the following items when you are designing your new kitchen.

Of course, while understanding your needs is important, there may be some things you just want.  Some you may already know about, others may not be as obvious.  Finally, it's important to be realistic.  If budget or size constraints doesn't allow you to have everything you want, don't let it dampen your excitement.  Like they say, you have to break a few eggs to make an omelet.  And this is a kitchen we're talking about.