Hi, A wood floor will obviously help and they are right a cork floor would be even more absorbent than a harder wood floor. Obviously the disadvantage is being softer it can damage easier and does not always look great. I have added a link to a engineered wood floor that uses cork and oak and is not expensive. Its worth fitting a acoustic barrier below this also on link. http://www.flooringsupplies.co.uk/accessories/651/natura_sonic_gold_acoustic_underlay?adtype=pla&keyword=&gclid=Cj0KEQjwyozABRDtgPTM0taCrKsBEiQATk6xDkeDsY6vQX1Pnj8zGPWFkjp1BZ9Nak6bOchDYO2hWpQaAiW88P8HAQ http://www.parkettkaiser.de/epages/62324980.sf/?Currency=GBP&Locale=en_GB&ObjectPath=/Shops/62324980/Products/EGG_K_485991/SubProducts/STK_EGG_K_485991-0001&ViewAction=ViewProductViaPortal&gclid=Cj0KEQjwyozABRDtgPTM0taCrKsBEiQATk6xDtcpJ4g44V7_zi4jbobK3RX-ZRUTm1LMjEQckA660H8aAtH58P8HAQ

Conscious Forms is a small London based concrete specialist design and make studio established in 2004 by Concrete Artisan Junior Phipps. Junior and his team of master craftsmen collaborate with private clients; architects and designers to create bespoke cast in-situ, seamless polished concrete furniture and surfaces. Sealing and Maintenance With in-situ cast concrete there are 2 main types of surface seal, 1. Topical seal, a bit like a varnish on top of the concrete surface, a non-breathable finish. Advantage of the topical seal is that it is less prone to staining due to the acrylic or polyurethane barrier. Disadvantage of the topical seal is if you puncture the surface moisture/water can get underneath leaving white bubbly pockets resulting in the delaminating of the topical seal. Topical seals will also add a slight discolouration as the topical seal ages. Also vulnerable to acids like red wine, vinegar, lemon juice which may etch the seal leaving a slightly 'milky' patch, if not wiped up soon after spillage. 2. impregnating seal which soaks into the surface to seal the concrete top layers but allows concrete to breathe. If the concrete gets wet this type of seal allows the concrete to dry out naturally. Disadvantage of the impregnating seal is it is more vulnerable to acids like red wine, vinegar, lemon juice which may etch the surface leaving a slightly dull unsealed patch. Impregnating seal very slightly alters the final colour of the concrete finish. At Conscious Forms we recommend that Lithofin Cream Polish and/or Lithofin Easy Care be regularly applied to the worktop after being sealed with an impregnating sealer like Lithofin MN Stainstop or Lithofin MN Stainstop Plus. Concrete worktop should be cleaned with a damp cloth only or with mild soapy water (no bleach or aggressive chemicals, chlorine based cleaners are fine). Do not cut or place hot pans directly on the surface or you may damage the seal. The sealant is effective against most dirt and grease but acidic spillage’s and liquids will have to be wiped up as soon as possible to prevent staining. Stains can be reduced and removed and we can advise on this. Contact us to discuss the surface repair treatment or resurfacing of your polished concrete worktop. Best regards Junior

Thanks everyone for the helpful comments :) I probably should've explained that we have a separate lounge diner with a large table and chairs, so we want the table/seating in the kitchen to feel more relaxed and only for 4 people (but don't want it breakfast bar height). And in terms of the prep space I was thinking we would use the space next to the sink, immediately behind the hob - but maybe that wouldn't be practical? Our current hob is actually where you suggested J but I hate it there as when I'm chopping and cooking I've got my back to everyone sat at the table. We were hoping to create a combined space rather than have very distinct areas of kitchen and table, which it is currently. I quite like your alternative idea Jonathan, it's similar to the other option we're considering (but the hob and sink are swapped over).

So much can be added to a classic kitchen in the form of lighting, accessories, furniture, paint and wallpaper to make it your own. It won't date and you can change it up over time as your tastes and needs change. I LOVE crazy decor but would rather it was in restaurants, bars and hotels than my home where. Does that make me boring?!