I think one of the problems in having free design range is the amount of options can also be paralysing.

You will definitely have a style preference if you've started collecting images, things you'd love, things you will have and things you won't. Good start.

I suggest breaking down the process into immediate and priorities stages of thinking, trying not to get to far ahead of yourself. For example it will be all too overwhelming if your fixating about door styles and handles before realising your layout cannot accomodate your ideas the first place. So collect images you aspire to and just look at them at face value.

Next, your room layout.

Make up a mud map so you start to factor in your own limitations as far as where windows, doors and openings prevent cabinetry, whether or not it adjoinslivingspaces, and how often, how many, and who will use the space at once.

really consider these points.

next, appliances, as they will impact the type of cabinetry you can have, ie wall ovens, freestanding ones, double under bench ones, huge fridges, or a single one, dish drawers or integrated units? Etc.. This will start to paint a picture of needs first!

Then, create a parameter of cabinetry by drawings a plan, or your kitche shape, for example a galley, an l shape with an island, or a u shape,working within your rooms limitations already considered.

having that in black and white, you can consider how you will use it, and what you require storing, factoring in drawers, access and accessories etc..

Play around until it works for you.

NEXT start researching finishes.

What will your doors and panels be made from?

what surface, or finish will they have, gloss,satin, textured, timber ect.

Do you want modern, classic or a mix of both?

Then look back at your images and start eliminating your options by means of cost, style or function, and it will reveal your kitchen.

I recommend then taking your well considered ideas into a cabinetmaker for a good sit down to discuss the finer details and listen how their valuable insights/contributions to make it better. As the homeowner and not the designer, your end result, is a great start for a professional to take things to the next level for you.

good luck

Great point big reader.

we all live and use our spaces differently, and they too will evolve as our family and lifestyles do.

the point above about Undermount sinks etc, relates perfectly to this.

many 'new' cooks, the next generation if you like will have never known a kitchen without a dishwasher, it's part of their kitchen essentials, and links to their ideals, so sinks with drainers may be redundant to them. They load and rinse into a DW, then unload and barely use the sink for much more than to fill a glass or rinse a cup out.

others, can't get past where will I drain my stacked dishes? Like I have done forever? New thinking is that you won't have dishes laying around as much with innovation driving function.

For this reason, and not compromising on style, a double bowl sink provides both a seperate draining or stacking bowl while one is filled, and also leaves your expensive, and, most admired work surface to remain clutter free!

win win