I definitely appreciate everybody's input and advice, so, thought I'd come back and give you all a little update. There are some issues with changing the layout, specifically moving the range to the interior wall. The venting is going to be problematic, because of location of the garage doors and also some HVAC equipment in the path. Would involve a rather long, inefficient run with multiple turns to avoid these things. HVAC guy basically said, Please don't move it there. Not only that, but the small wall that Karenseb suggested to remove - is part of a larger load-bearing wall. I have a healthy mid-range kitchen budget but these changes could be a real budget buster. Especially as we don't know what other surprises are lurking once demo begins. With that in mind, and my husband's wish to have the range and hood as a focal point centered between the windows, aesthetically nicer than staring at a fridge from the island seating, as well as simpler ventilation, any other suggestions? Should we keep dishwasher to the right as it is now? I plan to move the sink further down the run, ending at the right end of window instead of centered, to increase counter space on right side of range. For the few times a year I would cook a large spread of food for entertaining, I do have a butcher block island on wheels that can be rolled over to serve as surplus counter. Plus the big island directly behind. Other changes - we are leaning towards forgetting the separate oven and going with the aga range (plus my trusty Breville smart oven). I think then we would just make the beverage center section all countertop, space for Breville, and center the bar sink on that run. I asked my kitchen designer to draw up an L shaped window seat, into the alcove, maybe shelves or small upper above. As we can have lots of pantry space, with affordable shelving instead of cabinets, in the current hallway/future walk through pantry.

I find your apartment luxurious in the layout you now have and I updated your space without major construction, i.e. not moving the dishwasher or changing the downstairs bathroom. Living in NYC, we have welcomed guests and accommodate them as best as we can. Down the road you may want to consider enlarging the master bedroom bathroom to include a bathtub and laundry (!!!). This would enormously increase the resale of your property. I love the hot plates, but a small stove top and convection oven can do everything and more permanent, again increasing the property value. Don't spend the unnecessary expense of moving the sink or dishwasher, just to turn that corner and work with what you have. A decent size counter is a large workspace and dining area. I've had the biggest and best Thanksgivings in a teeny tiny NY kitchen!

Katie Parker - I hadn't seen your earlier post on flooring, but now that I have - a few comments: closing the wall opening in kitchen would seem to help with tv placement in the family room closing in the side door opening is a good idea, but you could consider replacing with a window with a textured glass that would hide the not so attractive view you have a vaulted ceiling in the family room, so possibly you could vault the kitchen ceiling as well, and perhaps add skylights for more daylighting. the arch into the family room adds architectural interest, and goes well with existing flooring, but it feels like there should be a matching arch in the living room (assuming you keep the existing general layout). the house has some real charm, so I'd develop floor plans (furniture layout and kitchen design) all at once to maximize its potential. ETA: I don't think you'll have any problem getting everything you want in the kitchen - it's not a big list. Getting rid of wall oven and side door will add maybe 6-ft of counter space.

How many people will be eating at the table on a regular basis? Are you removing the other window coverings because I think they look nice and relate well to the living room. One suggestion would be to have bench seating under your crosses (please keep them) with a narrow long rectangular table and 2 to 3 chairs across from the bench. It would tuck it closer to the wall so you have walking space. You could then put china cabinets or bookcases on either side of the door. Another suggestion would be to set up a table that goes from a console to a table to sit 8-10 peopls. You could set it up as a desk for everyday. It's a hard room because of the doorways.