Whether it merits mention within the discussion of kitchens or on its own, a surprising number of designers noted the popularity of hearth rooms. Hearth rooms have been around many years and are traditionally provided a "hearth" or fireplace incorporated in some way with the kitchen. Typically, they serve as a second living space within the home. Bruce Hollenbeck, describes the hearth room as an essential element for homes in every price range in the Kansas City market.

Larry Rigg, a designer for Home Design Alternatives in St. Louis, MO, has seen hearth rooms play a part in the way living spaces have evolved in his market.

"I remember the days of the living room/family room combinations very well. With the advent of the great room, I am seeing the hearth room sort of taking the place of the family room, in a sense."

It is important to note, that hearth rooms seem to have more regional popularity than other rooms. There are some areas of the country where hearth rooms are neither accepted nor wanted. But those areas, it seems, are becoming fewer by number or, as mentioned earlier, other alternative "living" spaces off the kitchen have developed instead.