It would be possible to put a play corner in the first two drawings but not in alternative 2. I would recommend a corner of storage furniture to corral the toys. I am usually a fan of built-ins but not in this case because eventually the kids will outgrow their toys and you won't need that storage there anymore. The built-in exception would be a window seat under one of those windows on the plans. Some of the storage could be cabinets or bookshelves for bins or toys underneath a window seat. I'm not a fan for toy box style storage because they either become a black hole or the kids throw everything out of them looking for what they want and then do't put the rest of it back. As for the kitchen placement, near to the deck would be best in you like to eat outdoors on the deck or entertain on the deck. We entertain a lot and the kitchen is on the other side of the house from the patio. It's a real pain and a big part of my design brief for the architect was for the kitchen to be next to the patio. I even wanted a pass-through window from the kitchen sink to the patio for ease of clean up but unfortunately I wasn't able to work that out.

My living room layout is very similar! I had my couch horizontal in front of your window creating a entryway, maybe put a console table behind the couch.

I like the general layout you have, with maybe Beverly's change to some chairs for lightness. Large end-table and lamp in the corner -- that leaves room next to the door for a smaller entry table with a drawer, if you need a place to drop mail or hide mittens. Large piece of art over the two chairs or loveseat. I'd try to use all art in this space, and keep the family photos in the more residential/private zones. You don't necessarily need decor around the TV, although some prefer it.

I like your rearrangement. Now for suggestions.....The coffee table is too big. I would like to see a round ottoman there. I would put your little mirrors around the bookcase...three to each side. Get a end table with lamp for the end of your couch nearest the dining room. Maybe a tall plant on the other end of your couch. To soften the room, if you want to, I would get some sheer curtains for the windows Also I would pull your sectional out away from the windows...looks sort of shoved in. Pretty dogs.