What sort of floors do you have? What shape is your kitchen and where is the fridge? I think an all black kitchen is most suited to a large space with a lot of natural light. If you have that it will be fine. :) In a small space without natural light, it may look dark and the black gloss may be a little overwhelming. If you have a kitchen with a defined back wall, another wall to the left/right and an island, you might want to put the gloss fridge and cupboards all down the side wall and on the island, and use a contrasting colour for the other cupboards. Perhaps a timber or grey timber look laminate and off white to warm up the space and bring in a bit of light. Depending on what you do and do not like as well as what is going to be reflected, a mirror splash may bring in a little more light as well. Goodluck with it all.

We would recommend using the same timber as the floor if you can. This would make sense and keep your material palette as simple as possible - there are some fantastic timber finishing treatments available that will provide a durable surface that is easy to maintain. There may be a way that you can introduce a separate timber element say 40-60 thick that sits on top of the existing solid top... perhaps a bit like the kitchen in this image by 'Beef Architects'http://www.contemporist.com/2013/06/21/riverpark-apartment-by-beef-architects/ap_210613_07/

Hi Lil, I believe your original plan works much better than the revised version. While the notion of ideal working widths is great, the larger problem here is the post. I worked on a project very similar to this last year where a post could either be connect to, or separate from the island. What we found was that by separating the island the space between island and post became very awkward. It's not enough of a space to comfortably walk through or be seated at the island in front of. Instead of your room feeling open and generous in proportion, it is going to start to feel cramped and awkward. We have a kitchen in our showroom (Kitchen Studio Tauranga NZ) with a 6ft gap between bench and back wall and it works wonderfully. It allows someone to work at the sink and a second at the island with ease. Stick with the original plan. It will feel a lot more spacious, without compromising work flows.

Hi Lila The waste pipe can still work with the L shape but if you are concerned, switch the sink and BBQ locations. That way the BBQ fumes will be further from the house too. Access to the back yard is always a consideration but I wouldn't let it rule your overall design as there are always ways around it. I had a mini bobcat come through my house to dig the pool in the back yard when I lived in Brisbane!!! A sail maker or equestrian sewer could easily make a good cover for the bench unit and I've seen it work on several occasions, but I would save up for the pergola to the side of the house which without any issues with the neighbour, could go to within 1.1m of the boundary or just as I drew it. Good luck with the decision making and enjoy your alfresco lifestyle.