Homeowners are continuing to invest in quality kitchen equipment such as stainless steel kitchen sinks despite the economic downturn, it has been suggested.An article by GE Appliances Lighting notes that while many people chose to buy smaller homes during the recession, the kitchen has continued to expand and now dominates a much larger percentage of many properties overall square footage.It also observed that the impact of the downturn served to reduce the spending power of ordinary people, leading more homeowners to stay in and cook at home rather than eat out.The company therefore suggested that consumers are continuing to invest in their kitchens by upgrading appliances and opting for quality finishes.Stainless steel is still the appliance finish of choice, especially for high-end appliances, commented Robert Rogers, general manager of merchandising at GE Appliances Lighting.Meanwhile, interior designer Julie Cosyns recently told Sowetan.co.za that homeowners can make their kitchens more functional and easy to navigate by devising various space-saving solutions.