If you're just going to mow and pull the occasional, non ground-engaging attachment like a dump cart, broadcast spreader, sweeper, etc, I think either tractor will probably be just fine. I've got a Husqvarna YTH2348 lawn tractor and it handles all these tasks without a problem. Looking at the specs for the two models you mention, the Husqvarna GT you mention sounds like a much beefier tractor. Both run B&S V-Twins, but the Husqvarna has a more HP. It also has larger rear tires (23x10s instead of 20x8s), a beefier frame (10 or 11 instead of 12 gauge steel) and it also weighs a lot more than the 500lb Snapper. It has a beefier hydrostatic transmission and a deck that's 6" bigger so it'll take you less time to mow. On paper it would seem that the Husqvarna is the "bigger" tractor. The Snapper sounds like it's more in line with the ~$1800 YHT2348 Husqvarna which has the same Tuff-Torque K46 Hydro tranny, and same wheel size, but still features a larger 48" deck and 11 gauge steel frame and 23 horse Briggs v-twin. In your shoes, I'd probably opt for the Husqvarna GT or even one of their bigger lawn tractors like the YTH2454 (24 horse B&S with 54" deck ~$2000), YTH2348 (23 horse B&S with 48" deck ~$1800), or the YTH2146XP which has a 21 horse Kawasaki v-twin, 46" two blade deck and uses the same GT frame (~$2400). I really think either one should do just fine for what you want though.

I think you are probably wise to go with your lesser choice and have the sink in the island. You loved the island plan and it had the sink there. Anyway, you are so much closer to the look you'd hoped for than when you first posted the plan with the bilevel peninsula. I tried to draw things out. I'm not sure how you want to move the fridge and how large you envision the pantry. So here's just an attempt in which I tried something a little different, because if you want a hutch looking piece I'm afraid it has to be wider than you have? I might have some of the measurements off from what you plan for that wall. Also, if you want the sink centered in the island you will have to have 2 ft on each side, which squeezes your dining area. Maybe you didn't plan it centered, though. I have it centered in this plan and you can see how it affects the length of the kitchen to see what you think.

What a great home you have to start with!! I love the look of modern furnishings in traditional homes, below are some houzz photos that came up with that search. IMO it adds instant warmth and uniqueness. I think sofa and accent chairs will give you more flexability and a more open sight line will be achieved with a low back sofa. I think the art and decor you should take your time with and let it speak to you and your families interests and tastes...is the art modern and artsy, or classic with a love of nature, is it fun and colorful with a nod to the bold. The backs of the built in bookcases could be wallpapered to reflect this too, and lighting will add a huge statement about you and how you want others to feel in your home.

I use a 36" runner on my table for the holidays. I like the length because I can place a centerpiece on it but it doesn't interfere with setting the table. This vendor on Etsy can make any size you want. https://www.etsy.com/listing/684541238/74-x-15-handmade-black-white-damask-1?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=borders+table+runner&ref=sc_gallery-1-3&plkey=d43fa35d1cf79135adaa77c39ab8e4a20e898926%3A684541238