I agree with Jonathan and would remove the worktop return under the window and would have a larger island. Having the hob on the island is a very personal choice, some people like the sink there, others prefer it clear. I spent lots of time searching for people's opinions on kitchen colours and islands and everyone's opinion is different depending on their taste and what suits them and their family. Kitchens cost such a lot of money and I was so worried about getting it wrong. I'm having an induction hob on the island which will be split level, the seating area is higher than where the hob is, which again some people like, some don't, however it will suit us. I almost went for white gloss cabinets as it's a safe bet, but every time I looked at a picture of a grey kitchen I loved it so I thought, be brave and go for grey. I think the light and dark grey units work really well together. You need to think about what will work best for you and what you like and go for it, I'm sure it will look amazing.

Great advice guys. Regarding the sink / dishwasher - I completely agree, an oversight at 2am (it's addictive this planning). With regards to the middle of the house, I'm completely torn. I have drawn several other options where we have created a den for the kids in the old kitchen, the utility and W/C up against the living room wall and then used the breakfast room as a study/homework room but my better half is very keen to replicate the ability to see throughout the house as much as possible as we have this in our current home. An earlier drawing blocked off the existing hallway after the stairs and had a crittal style window in enabling you to see into the kitchen but provides more wall space for units - freeing up the other end for full width industrial Windows/doors....... Decisions decisions. On that note - any recommendations for architects/designers (suitable for drawings to be submitted under permitted development/structural engineers report and tradesmen instructions) that cover north Kent (Medway)? Thanks all

I would lose the wooden counter top and pull out larder. Put the hob next door but one to the sink with an extractor above. This will break up the run of wall units. Also think about when you are cooking pasta, filling up a saucepan with water and then draining it. You don't need to cross the room. Where you going to put bin, dishwasher and microwave? I would agree you need more drawers. I love my new pan drawers they hold alot. But my pull out larder does not and things fall down the back all the time. Also when you are taking something out of the oven, where are you going to put it? I never understand why designers put oven and fridges next to one another.

So many lost opportunities: Click on the image to expand 1) the long extension is blocked by the office. Far more dramatic if the full length and outlook and light at both ends can be used. 2) The kitchen is contrived but doesn't work, as you say. 3) A powerful symmetry can be gained in all aspects of the kitchen/dining/slobbing seating area. 4) space for a big bookshelf/tv wall in the casual seating area 5) space for coat hanging in the hall and utility (none in the original) 6) Kitchen and dining are interchangeable depending on preference. 7) a less space wasting office with direct access to the garden. Could alternatively be a kids room for the avalanche of plastic. 8) Significantly less expensive because the wall is kept, but the chimney is removed in this floor. 9) I would use sliding doors at the ends. Minimal frame type with just 2 panels. Bi folds are really ugly when closed (most of the time). 10) you could extend the kitchen worktop outside as an outdoor kitchen. I did this out of personal interest because I could see lost opportunities and it bugged me so I had to solve it. But if you want help or just to discuss, please get in touch. Leesmunday.com