The kitchen products on this year's Top 100 list represent the latest designs and trends in a variety of products, from concrete countertops and eco-friendly cabinetry to stainless steel sinks.

Functional and hygienic, stainless steel sinks have become design statements, complementing colorful countertops with their shiny, clean appearance. Accessories add to the practicality while enhancing design. For instance, Kohler's 8 Degree stainless steel sink (No. 95) has a beveled edge that supports an out-of-view wineglass drying rack that frees up countertop space. In addition, the bevel retreats back to the bottom of the sink at an 8-degree angle, making the sink larger on the bottom than it is on the top.

Unique accessories and storage options also are at the top of buyers' lists for cabinetry. Three kitchen cabinet manufacturers made the Top 100 list this year, with eco-friendly features such as FSC-certified wood and healthy finishes capturing particular attention. For example, Holiday Kitchens' line of custom frameless cabinetry (No. 62) utilizes low-VOC finishes and the company recycles 100% of its wood waste, turning excess into cutting boards, sawdust for animal bedding, and landscape materials.

Adding an organic element to the kitchen is No. 38 on the list, J. Aaron's stainproof concrete countertops, in nature-inspired colors. It was one of several unique items capturing readers' attention, along with an industry-first ductless downdraft cooktop (No. 65) and a reverse-osmosis water purification and desalination system (No. 68). --Jennifer Goodman

#38 J. Aaron. Handcrafted with a high-tech mixture of additives along with specific finishing techniques, these stainless concrete countertops are 100 percent stain- and acid-proof and do not require topical sealers, the maker says. The 2-inch-thick countertop is available in nature-inspired colors, including gray, cream, charcoal, and brown or tinted to match any Benjamin Moore paint color.
866-583-4200. www.jaaroncaststone.com.

#68 PureOFlow. The PureOFlow whole-house reverse-osmosis water purification system features a special membrane technology from GE that provides desalination and purification in one system. According to the company, the system reduces up to 98 percent of substances such as arsenic, lead, and radium, and it softens the water without the need for salts. PureOFlow fits alongside the furnace and water heater, using the same amount of space as a traditional soft water system. It delivers up to 5,600 gallons per day. 702-834-6570. www.pureoflow.com.

#41 Elkay. Created with luxury designer Fu-Tung Cheng, the Cascade sink features a sleek, rectangular bowl with an attached drainboard sculpted to guide water. Homeowners can personalize the sink with a range of integrated accessories, including a three-piece stainless steel drain cover, a wood cutting board, and a sliding colander. The bowl measures 9 inches deep and 34?3/8 inches long; in whole, the unit measures 16?1/2 inches front to back and 72?1/2 inches long. 630-572-3192. www.elkayusa.com.

#65 Jenn-Air. The ductless downdraft cooktop, the first in the industry, according to the firm, allows for installation virtually anywhere in the home without a major remodel to accommodate ducts. The appliance includes electronic ignition and automatic re-ignition, electronic touch controls, and continuous cast-iron grates with a porcelain coating. Gas and electric models are available in 30- and 36-inch configurations. 800-536-6247. www.jennair.com.

#84 Plain & Fancy. Offering a softer side to modern design, Safarience With a Glimmer of Shimmer cabinetry is characterized by a reverse flat, solid-panel door. It is available in wenge, zebrawood, and other wood species with metallic accents and glass doors. 800-447-9006. plainfancycabinetry.com.