A new housing development has made the kitchen its centrepiece room by opening it up to access from an outdoor courtyard.Antler Homes Stone Bank Gardens development in Bardsey has created an open flow of space between outdoor and indoor areas while also creating modern, attractive kitchens. This has included applying luxurious surface materials in and around kitchen sink areas.With stylish granite work surfaces, ceramic floor tiling and French doors opening onto an attractive courtyard, the kitchen is sure to be the heart of the home, says the company.The development also features a range of stylish but functional kitchen appliances including stainless steel double ovens. These would work well with stainless steel kitchen sinks and other matching appliances.Design commentator Susan Dunlap recently wrote for the McClatchy News Service that replacing a kitchen tap is a cost-effective and stylish way of upgrading a home for anyone concerned about staying within tight budgets. Instead of repainting or upgrading major appliances, kitchen owners could use small counter-top appliances to add a sense of fun and colour to kitchen sink areas, she added.