A cabinet can hold two, one for kitchen trash, one for recyclables. You can also get a cutting board with a hole in it that pulls out over the trash baskets, so with one motion the waste goes right in the garbage. They can do that. There are lots of choices. Once people see what's out there, it's like letting kids loose in a candy store.
Many sources say a kitchen renovation is one of the most worthwhile ways to spend money on a house.
As for what style to finally choose, Ms. Stage had this advice. If you're going to live in a house a long time, do what your heart dictates. If you're unsure, go with the style of the house. For information and ideas, Kitchen Design Studio is at 21 South Street in New Canaan. It has a number of model kitchens to get the creative juices flowing.