Here's an initial attempt at a design that keeps the dining room essentially as it is: Here's a perspective view to give a feel for what it looks like, with some furniture added in the dining room: For some reason Sketchup didn't export all of my dimension measurements when I created the picture, but there is about 4.5' between the table and the wall in the mud room. There is 4' between the range and the island and 3' between the island and the wall with the stairs. The island itself is 30" wide, and the black box is a dishwasher, which would open toward the sink. Here's what I don't like about this layout: Having the fridge, range, and sink all along one wall seems awkward. This range is 30", and I was hoping to fit a 36" range. This layout has the microwave over the range, but that may not be possible if I go for a range requiring a big hood. The only other option seems to be under the counter in the island, but' I'd like to avoid that too. I'm also not sure what to do with the pantry space. Here's another view that shows it: As you can see, it has a tall pantry/broom closet, a lazy susan, room for wine or beverage storage under the counter, and an appliance garage. I'm not sure what to do with the space above. Perhaps there would be a better arrangement? I'd appreciate any thoughts! --Optimus

I will look to see if I have a floor plan, but if not, how would i go about creating one for you. I know I sound like an idiot but obviously I am clueless as to this kind of stuff and wish my husband would just let me hire a decorator lol! However, he just now gave me another big fat NO to hiring one lol! So needless to say, I am going to have to learn how to do this on my own and asking for help, however annoying I may be, is the only thing I know to do! So I apologize in advance for my ignorance! I will look for the floor plan! Thanks for responding!

I have open concept with an island with a sink and after reading many threads here I scratched my plan to have clear glass and went with ribbed glass and a lens which spreads the light downward. You’ll need good lighting at the sink. Your inspiration pic has a large skylight and no sink in the island. I would not do a lantern type. Where is your dining room. Would it be the space from where the perspective originates? If it is, you could use a different color/material since there is some space separation with the wall opening. I would also repeat the chosen color/materials in another way in the decor of the DR.

Lets talk about why there is not recessed lighting in your kitchen before I nag about that. lol. This space just needs to be recessed no more no less. IF you cannot do that we need to talk about functional lighting in a work space. Do you have under cab lighting? I need more info on the electrical and what can be done.