Updating your kitchen? We asked designer Mick De Giulio - who designed his first kitchen when he was 19 and has 3,000 projects under his belt - to give us a list of what he thinks are the essentials. 
1. Natural Light
Look for ways to maximize light, from eliminating cabinets next to windows to using transparent or reflective materials like glass and stainless steel.
Related: Beautiful Designer Bedrooms
2. Comfort
I like to incorporate soft seating, a TV, and - when I can - a fireplace, to make the kitchen the coziest place in the house.
3. Visual Texture
It's the mix of woods, countertop materials, and finishes that creates warmth, personality, and mood.
See More: Kitchen of the Year 2011
4. Stainless Steel
The consummate neutral, it looks great with everything and will never go out of style. I love its organic quality - it develops a well-worn patina over time.
Related: 10 Easy Closet Cleaning Tips
5. An Island
If space allows, an island is essential. It's the social center of the kitchen.
6. A Great Sink
Accessories such as an integrated colander and a sliding cutting board make working there more efficient.
7. Integrated Refrigeration
Creating cabinet facades to hide refrigeration units gives me a tremendous amount of design freedom. By eliminating a large, boxy element, I can make a kitchen feel more room-like.
Related: An Open, Casual California Home
8. High-Performance Appliances
Today, high-efficiency burners and ovens with convection and self-cleaning are really indispensable.
9. A Hook
Every great kitchen has a hook, that one unique element that just pulls you in. It could be a hood, a sink, a pot rack.
Related: 101 Easy Makeover Tips You Can Do Now
10. A Kitchen Designer
Kitchen design is complicated, and the landscape is constantly changing. Hiring a professional is perhaps the most valuable investment you will make.
11. Ice Cream
In my opinion, no kitchen is complete without it.
Do you agree? What do you think #12 is?
More from House Beautiful:
- Kitchen of the Year 2011 with Tyler Florence
- Brilliant Ideas for a Tiny Kitchen
- Eye-Popping Headboard Designs
-
Amazing Bedroom Designs
- Get More Creative Ideas for Your Home: Subscribe to House Beautiful Magazine
