So, what did your grandmother's accountant say? I think you were on the right track - either the accountant or the tax attorney.

I'd always have power available at the end of your cat6 runs there's going to be equipment there no matter whether things are passive or active most likely. HDMI peaks out at 45' so you're likely to need some longer distance device any how. You'd probably get better answers on this subject over on the Home Entertainment section of this forum. The only advice I'd give is to run extra. Most of the HDMI solutions these days chew up all 4 pairs in the cat6. If you want to run network or some other wiring as well, you'll want multiple cables.

In our last house, we painted the lower level paneling and the walls in the laundry room the same color, I think we used Benjamin Moore antique white or Navajo white, and it made such a big difference. Brighter, felt more open and cohesive. I had a big double sink like yours. My handyman wouldn't take it out! He said I'd regret it and then be mad at him lol. Well, I decided I did want it removed, replaced it with a sink base cabinet from Home Depot and white utility sink. While I loved having counterspace and storage and it looked pretty, I sure did miss that workhorse concrete sink. It looks like you have room to keep it, lucky you! It will be especially useful during your remodel. I have a cat who is quite, um, energetic in his digging, too. A covered box really helps.

Everyone’s comments are so spicy! I understand there are purists with home architecture but obviously M.R (author) is looking for help and ideas which I LOVE from the Houzz community. M.R don’t be discouraged by some comments, I think your post was honest and sincere. You love your new house, but the kitchen isn’t functional for a family of 5 and that’s okay! I think you have a lot of options and I do agree an architect is even better at thinking of ideas outside the box. My recommendation of combined dining room and kitchen is yes open floor plan, but not drastic, it would allow that room with alll the windows to be enjoyed by your most used space, the kitchen. And the dining room could serve dual purpose as a kitchen table (if islands aren’t your thing) but could also really dress up for a formal dinner with the right lighting. When you specified dining room, did you want it fully separate? I am restoring an 1810 farmhouse, no open floor plans for me but I like not having anyone in my kitchen LOL I decided to forget the dining room for us since we’re just a couple and I don’t host many dinners. To our lifestyle, a room dedicated to a dining room seemed like wasted real estate. I say all this to encourage you to think about the way your family lives and the things that are must haves. Once you get that sorted making these decisions might get easier :) can’t wait to see your project and good luck!