I have definitely seen harder water than 5-12 gpg, but it is more than would be considered soft. That is in the range where I would want a softener in the DW and I would try to get a model that has one. Not *necessary* by any means, but a good thing to have.

The run of cabinets with counter space in this layout is about 3 ft longer than my current layout. Those are shelves/cabinets on either side of the banquette to organize the mail, papers etc. and create the cozy window seat nook that I have always wanted. We have a peninsula now and its useless. It limits the prep space on the right side of the sink and collects mail and papers. When we have a large crowd no one stands along the edge as you get trapped in the corner. I also feel it creates a barrier getting to the table. Without the peninsula that counter provides more prep space. I wanted to treat the prep and dining spaces as one rather than cutting in half with a peninsula. I noted that the kitchens I loved the most had continuous cabinetry from one wall to the other. The island is intended to be a place for 1, at most 2, people to sit for quick meals and a place for people to stand and/or food to be served when we have guests. Length will be 8' or less. It will also be designed to be totally open on one end and look more like a table and not a long, skinny heavy "block". Perhaps the pic attached shows it better. I am primarily concerned with the DW. I know the counter depth fridge will not be flush and the range needs to protrude from the cabinets. I wanted to be sure that the sides of the range are not exposed though. Just checked the AJ Madison site and the Fisher Paykel comes up as fully integrated 22 1/2" depth. I've read that Miele and Bosch are recommended for totally flush. Bosch fully integrated depths vary but none less than 22 1/2" so I'm guessing the Fisher Paykel will be flush. I'll probably make a trip to the appliance store sooner rather than later tho.

My kitchen renovation was in progress when the pandemic hit, and toward the end of 2020 we had had numerous products that had been promised within a few weeks that ended up delivering months out, up to 7 months in one instance. Nothing is guaranteed--absolutely nothing. I would have a contingency plan even if in 4 weeks you don't have it. It's just a memory you're making renovating during a pandemic or what is now basically the aftermath of the pandemic.

I have an old house that needs a new dishwasher. But I have old cabinets, and it needs to be under 34 inches tall. The issue is, we will eventually remodel but don't want to replace a new dishwasher just to fit the new cabinet height which will likely be 35 inches. We are looking at Fisher and Paykel double drawer dishwasher or the Bosch 800 series ADA compliant. Both of these max height below 35 inches. Will this be an issue with the new kitchen? In other words, can we do something so we don't have a gap in the new kitchen? Also, if you have an opinion on either of these dishwashers, much appreciated. Thanks!!