I like Marcolo's idea of switching the closet and adding the cubbies! Here's that option, but I kept a small table for crafts, snacks, breakfast, etc. You said you like to watch the kids out that window, but a setee would look very nice, too. While an island is very nice (and popular) I thought I'd leave the wall (perhaps load bearing?) and make the kitchen easily accessible from both tables. And you still have a little more 'formal' feel in the big dining room. By having the French doors opening into the kitchen, you have the option of closing off the noise...but still seeing the main sink (maybe farmhouse?) and possible 'buffet area' opposite the French doors. I added the extra sink by the fridge, so you have one sink/prep area to the left of the range and another baking area on the right. The dishwasher could go by either sink (or both) but if you have one opposite the French doors, cabinet front or drawer dishwasher might be a nice option. Hope this helps and have fun with your planning :) From Kitchen plans

Hi All, Here's the current layout. I posted it earlier but I think it got lost in all the layouts (sorry!). Catbuilder - you make a great point. I did consider those options. I've lived here for over two years now and the two biggest things missing are a comfortable place for a couple of adults to perch in the kitchen (I have no where to put people when they come by and I am working in the kitchen), and a kitchen table for small dinners and homework. Currently, my son does his homework on the coffee table in the family room and we often sit on the floor and eat there also. I don't want to give up the dining room. It's a lovely room with floor to ceiling windows and we often have many dinner guests. I also don't want to give up the "living room". I put it in quotes because really it's our library/quiet space. It's really nice to read there or work at the computer there. So, for the time being, I'm still trying to fit it all in. That said, I don't want a poor outcome because I tried to do too much. Debrak 2008 - That's a great photo, thanks! It looks a lot like my space. It would mean no kitchen table though, so I'm not too keen on it at this point. Gardenpixie - thanks for the isle measurements. Your thoughts are very reassuring. My space is so small, I would think 42" isles would look out of proportion. Thanks for the encouragement!! Does anyone have an opinion about Marti8a's layout? It does seem to maximize the space, but it seems to lose the definition of the kitchen and just feels a little out of place to me. Thoughts? Many thanks again! -kb

What a great space to have for you and your family! Unfortunately, I don’t think the current blue throw pillows are doing anything beneficial. To warm up the space, it would help to actually add in some warm colors. Think fire: red, yellow, orange, or a variation thereof. Try googling images such as “gray couch peach accents”, “gray couch green accents” (green can lean warm, too.) Find an image that really resonates with the feel that you want your space to convey. This can give you a better idea of what to look for when you do go shopping. You have a fantastic neutral base to build on, so don’t be afraid to add some bold colors, pattern, or textures. I realize these images don’t lean very “Farmhouse”, but hopefully they’ll give you some ideas of just how much you can add to your space and bring it to life. Have fun! ETA: Link to google pictures of Farmhouse, gray couch, turquoise accents.

is one of your objectives to create an entry-way and block off The View into your sliding glass doors? If so can you supply more pictures? You've gotten great advice so far for the TV wall. I'm also a huge fan of sliding a piece of art in front of the TV, they have nice rails you can install above your television.