What do you want to use this extra seating for? Is it just for casual chit chat while someone is cooking? Do you need the extra benchtop? Do you want to eat meals here? I think that all makes a difference. You have room for a medium round/oval table in that space which may be more comfortable and flexible. It could be a more casual seating area where people could face the kitchen, I see your dining table at the far end means people have their back to the kitchen. If you really want to extend the bench, I like Feioi and minnie101 ideas re using a different material and more rounded. I would go for wood or colourful laminate and you could have a more rounded/wider end so some people could sit on the end, facing whoever is in the kitchen. A colour would look great, the yellow, orange from your painting would make it zing and look fab! Same if you decide to get a table, make it fun. Beware cold materials like marble or metal as people will be more likely to be leaning on them and those are cold on your arms. I find this even in restaurants with marble/metal tables. Personally I don't like sitting on stools and prefer chairs where your feel can touch the ground, much more comfortable so you could consider making the extended bench a lower level. Remember to post 'after' photos!

Do you want to be closer to your partners and feel warmer in this winter? A bench is a great choice for you.

The wood shelf matches our worktop and cupboards. Here is a picture of how it was in the showroom (we have a similar but larger set up). The shelf is in a different place but we got a replacement as it was damaged underneath with a scratch so thought we could try a bench. If moving the legs in won't help perhaps I need to rethink the leg style. It's only 26cm in width though - any suggestions of a leg that may be suitable.

The left-hand door is a pain - every door in this bungalow was installed right against a wall. I don't think a bench will work here but I'm in a ruling things out phase and wanted to be sure I am not being overly negative or ruling things out too quick. This earlier post (very wordy - sorry) shows photos of the overall tricky space I'm working with Check out this discussion on Houzz - https://www.houzz.co.uk/discussions/6464756/ideas-to-make-this-space-off-the-kitchen-work-harder-please