I have a husband, three kids and a hairy dog. For example, many people faced with a separate kitchen, dining area and family room want to merge the three into one large but cozy space. Designers are also up on trends and can advise against something that in a few years will make a kitchen look dated. Sub-Zeros are always in. Six-burner stoves, double ovens, and halogen lights are in.
Fluorescents are definitely out.
On the subject of cabinets, laminate is out. Oak is out. Cherry and maple are the woods du jour. Framed cabinets are more popular than frameless. Anything that stands alone is definitely in.