the kitchen reflects today's hottest trends in performance and looks. the refrigerator is sub zero with a stainless steel front; the stove is a commercial-grade viking; and the stainless steel bosch dishwasher is practically noiseless. the johnsons said they allowed some leeway in the budget, which came in handy since they upgraded their appliances.

"i knew redoing the kitchen would make a big difference in my appreciation of the house, but i didn't conceive of just how big a difference it would make. making dinner is one of the highlights of my day now."

- shelly johnson.