For the bachelor who scratches his head in bewilderment while attempting to boil water for instant coffee, a kitchen complete with the appliances of his dreams might consist of a frost-free refrigerator, a microwave oven, a double-slotted toaster, and the plainest of sinks.

Others, individuals who fancy themselves a step or two below award-winning French chefs, need wide expanses of counter space, double ovens, microwaves, electric grills and barbecues, three-tubbed stainless steel sinks, boxes of hand appliances, and piles of pots, pans, and multipurpose utensils.

Food is always being highlighted by the media. Sales of cookbooks and culinary magazines have reached best-selling proportions. Talk shows serve up celebrity cooks. Medical studies stress how a healthy diet can ward off heart disease, stress, and even cancer. And there’s no denying that everyone has to eat. It’s not something we can elect to pass up. In any household, the primary food preparation area is the kitchen.