Thank you for all responses/advice. Very helpful/useful. Excavation is supposed to start this week (that's how early we are in the build, no dirt has been dug yet). Cabinets have not been ordered yet (but need to decide/order soon). I do not like the idea of having the kitchen in the front of the house (where the dining room currently is), irregardless if a wall separates it from the entry foyer. What is most important to me is an open concept between the kitchen and great room. Moving the kitchen to the front of the house is not an option. Additionally, I do like the idea of having a more "formal" dining room, rather than a common eating area shared with the great room. I spent anywhere from 1-3 hours in the kitchen daily between cooking/near the stove, prepping, and washing dishes by the sink. I want to see the great room and converse with whomever is in there. Having said that, I don't like any plans with spending majority of time staring/looking at the staircase, either regular staircase or stairs down to the basement. I've asked before - can't move the porch or add bay windows to the front of the house. :)

Yes, we plan to have a closet/utilize the space under the stairs leading up to the 2nd floor (this closet accessible via the study). No closet under the stairs that lead down into the basement currently. Can you fit a closet in this one? Only concern is this is the only real wall in the great room. Unfortunately we need all 3 spaces - formal dining (now serving as main eating area), study, and guest bedroom. I don't want books/computers/laptops/electronics in the dining room. I play the cello - need separate music space/area, so I'm combining music area (place store music books, cello, music stand) with a small desk/books located in the study. Both in-laws live out of state (as do most siblings) and for various reasons, we've had family stay with us for extended periods of time (i.e. months), so don't want to go into guest bedroom to access my computer, electronics, pay bills, etc. Live in northeast OH, so mudroom area/place for coats is essential. benjesbride - That floor plan you sent is almost identical to ours! Only difference is the right side of the house continues to come forward, ours doesn't - ours has to recede due to lot restrictions. If it helps, here's the topo (house on the pie shaped lot)

Update in case this is helpful to anyone in the future: I have decided to go with Timbertech Pro legacy Tigerwood. It’s described as “blonde, tan” there is a lot of variation which I think will look good with the composite decking and is lighter, like my floors:

II agree, can't go wrong with leather. Just make sure it's not bonded leather. We have PB performance "suede" and love it, probably not for kids tho. I would trust their performance fabrics. I don't know anything about slipcovers. I found this quote on woodstockoutlet.com If durability and luxurious feel is most important to you, consider something made with a premium full grain leather. For the most affordable real leather upholstery on the market, a pigmented or protected split leather may be the answer. However, for the best compromise of durability, style and affordability, you may want to consider a high quality top grain leather.