Yes, I got to 42" by adding the 24" and 18" cabinet widths of cabinets 8 and 10. And yes, there will be a panel on the "dining room" sides of cabinets 7 and 9, the living room side of cabinet 10, and kitchen side of cabinet 8. I didn't think about the 1" overhang on the working sides of the island, thanks! I've seen the recommended minimum overhang for counter height seating is 15", and we "field tested" some of the kitchen displays at IKEA. None of them were 15" (two were between 11" and 13") and they didn't feel narrow or awkward even for my DH who is 6'1". I was hoping to save an 1"-1.5" there if possible. This home was built in 1952, and we learned after our first winter in the house last year that the exterior walls are not insulated... We've been told by one contractor that he can install a header and remove the studs, so we're planning on recessing about 3".

Wow, those are huge! I am not sure Nahema can climb tall here in zone 6a though. I planted one from Palatine in the garden this spring to test it out. Have another one in pot since last year, it's more than 7' tall. My friend in NC lost hers last winter, so did her friend. I might still plant my potted Nahema in a protected area since I have too many potted roses...... Kelly's Nahema made through in zone 4 last winter, that's a good news. Good luck to all of us growing Nahema in cold zones.

Waaay too long. Get a proper sized sofa and one or two chairs. It will look much better and be more versatile. If you want to put your feet up, you can get an ottoman.

I dont really think the picture of the under construction space will be very helpful but here you go