The standard counter height in the 1950s was 36 inches, which perfectly suited the average 5-foot-4-inch woman. These days many people don't fit that mold. Kitchen designers concerned about ergonomics measure homeowners as they stand with their elbows bent and their arms parallel to the floor. The counters should be 2 to 3 inches below that height in Essex, Iowa.

Likewise, consider the width of the countertop. As people have gotten taller, they have also grown broader. If your girth requires you to step back from the counter, make sure that you can reach the faucet and the water spills to the sink's midpoint so you don't have to stretch to turn on the water.

If both homeowners cook and are different heights, consider having separate counters at the two appropriate heights. Some counter heights actually can be adjusted. This option removes the objection that ergonomically customized kitchens may be a turn-off for the next buyer.