Visually I like option 2 the best as well. I think it adds and level of interest and is still in keeping with the overall style of your home. I feel that the pipe/reclaimed wood look is too makeshift feeling in appearance, and clashes with the very nice traditional moldings and other permanent features of your lovely home. From your first picture, the way it is framed visually by the door opening, anything you put here is going to feel prominent and special. So I think that something more moody and masculine is great, but I think the plumbing fittings and rough wood are not stylized enough to carry the space and will look like a place holder. If you DH wants something more industrial, then I would think about similar cabinets in your main area for lowers, but maybe painted or stained a different color. With a countertop that is different (stained polished concrete, matte soapstone, mosaic tiles, etc), and then for upper shaving if you both want a more open feel and different look than the kitchen proper. The last idea picture you posted, with more finished shelves (framed front edge for visual thickness and a more finished look) , for uppers only, could look quite nice. Or possibly pairs of John Boos stainless shelves, or even shallower than typical Upper cabins, with no doors, would give the a look you would like. I would also recommend being sure to add some good access for power outlets, probably a 4 outlet instead of typical dual plug outlet. Then the space can hold laptop, a TV, coffee pot and other appliances, be a charging station, work for crafting, and be all around useful.

I have four kids and they span the ages of 6-12. My oldest has a desk in her room but she prefers to sprawl on on her bed and/or bedroom floor. She only even started using her bedroom last year for homework. However, she does need to use the computer often and like you, I don't allow the computer in private spaces so we keep it on the main floor. My younger two do their HW at the kitchen table b/c they often have questions or need help. It is most convenient for them to do it there. My 10 y/o has a desk in his room, but he mostly prefers doing his HW either at the kitchen table or in the family room on the coffee table. He too sometimes needs the computer. Given that you have the space, I would use it for those purposes, at least until your kids are older and prefer the privacy of their own room. Given that you don't have to worry about clearing the space for meals, I think it would work well. Like others have said, I wouldn't do anything permanently built-in unless you design it so that it can be converted into some other use once the kids no longer use it.

First of all...ignore the rectangular mirror that is not hung at the right height (just seeing what I think about the color of the frame on the wall). Here is the swivel chair and ottoman. This chair is SUPER comfy and I like that it has a lower back. A chair like this could work with a smaller ottoman. Never mind the color, but I do kind of like this set up. Now, I hope to find one in a different color, a different ottoman, and different rug, and a round mirror, lol. jimandanne, you got it right when you mention that closing off one of the doorways will effect the family room as well as the kitchen. Besides, we just remodeled our kitchen last year and I am not looking to do anymore construction to the room right now. Plus I like that it is more open to the family room with both doorways. I'm in agreement that I would like to find a smaller round rug (maybe 6' instead of the 8' one that is there). Room dimensions: doorways next to fireplace are each 36" and fireplace is 5'. From desk to doorwall is 18'6" and from island to fireplace is 12'3". And yes, it is a two sided fireplace. binkerman, I'm not sure what you mean when you said you see a floor protector? I'm thinking you see some of the rugs I was trying rolled up over by the table/chairs. jlc, I really like the poufs! That is a possibility and I will have my eyes open for those. yayagal, what do you think with the darker chair? k9arlene, I like the bench and ottoman, those could look good with no chairs. steph2000, I like that big square ottoman thing that I posted a pic of too, but I have never seen one in person anywhere. Thanks everyone!!

keep it open. L shape kitchen,,,, Fridge on 8 foot wall with side panels so side of appliance not on view. Range and hood in 5.5 foot section on back wall. single sink under 45 in window on right in a 27 or 30 in sink base cab. Run cabs all along back wall but beyond range and hood on left side...into corner....taper them back to 12 in deep for setting out food/coffee/etc. then get a pedastal table opposite stairs on that long left side of room..maybe drop leaf. Furniture choices and placement will be the way to make fun enjoyable living space . dont close in .....simplify kitchen.... dont think island is your best bet...... One single eating venue with flexibility. What is there now? Good upholstered furniture..the correct pedestal table are investments that will last and make the living end work. Plan the kitchen as initial rush to gut is never wise . You'll want to embellish that bit with stove and hood with tile/maybe glass fronted cabs either side/good counters/maybe more upgrades to assist in your aesthetic for Open format.