Doug's wife would hate my fridge location, lol. And, Lavender, I'm not so organized but was raised by a mom who would yell at you if you stood with the door to the fridge open for very long as it let "the cold out!" so I automatically think through what I need and where it's at so I don't let too much cold out. mlogin, it's great that you're striving to incorporate the 31 Rules into your design. Just know that many of us find we have to compromise on one or more of them. I chose to do so on my fridge location and it is working out just fine for me. Below is my kitchen showing the former fridge placement and the current one. Current placement is actually in the opening between the laundry/pantry room. It does impede traffic through that route once in awhile but only for a few seconds so it isn't a big deal. I would rather experience a bit of congestion there than at my sinks, range or dishwasher locations. Or at my prep space or baking area. I just strongly feel that the fridge is the appliance you are standing at doing something the least time of all the appliances. If any appliance has to be placed in a less optimal position, I would choose the fridge. Remember that you also want your fridge on the edge of your working spaces so that someone who just wants to access it for a drink or snack isn't walking back-and-forth inside your work areas. I just don't see another place in your kitchen plan where your fridge is accessible to both cook and a drinker/snacker. Of course, someone more creative than I am may suggest a layout none of us have thought of yet but I think it would require re-arranging most of the rest of your kitchen to find another good location. Again, I'm not writing to try to influence you one way or the other but just to give you as much info as possible to consider in order for you to make the best decision for you and your family.

Hi Kendrah, Thanks! I want something a little less “diner-esque.” It feels either that or clinical, especially in addition to the amount of stainless already in the kitchen. I do plan/hope to redo the kitchen but instead of a full remodel, I think I’ll be more likely to piecemeal it for now by changing the vent and cooktop, the undermount sink and maybe the backsplash for now. It’s the most poorly done tile backsplash I’ve ever seen and it goes to the ceiling. 🤦🏻‍♀️ In 5-7 years when I feel justified in changing all of the floors (the house is only two years old so I feel wasteful doing if right now), I may do a full remodel with new cabinetry and new countertops, but hope to reuse the cooktop and range come that time. I do plan to get new counter seating. I don’t like these much either but I bought them off of the first owner for a bargain because i didn’t feel like spending money on new counter stools (and six of them with spare for one more!!) until I knew what look/feel I’d be going for in the kitchen.

... with internal blowers? If so: - Which hood length and blower do you have? - How would you describe the noise levels? at 1/2 (med) speed, and full speed? - (if you know) Can you describe your ducting? Thanks!

My kitchen is about 20'x22'...larger in both directions and I don't feel like I have space for 2 islands. Mine is 5'x8' with 4' walkways. I also have tons of storage, the side under the 16" overhang is of course not as usable, but great for rarely used items. My island has legs and seating for 5 on 3 sides. I think just downsizing with better design is the way to go for you :)