Well I think my husband mainly wants to hide the chocolate stash away from me as where I would use it to store vases and everything else that you usually keep in the top of the pantry(you only get out once or twice a year). He does have a point but I am worried about boxing ourselves in - no room for growth. He is definitely not itching for his next project (we have been working weekend, after weekend on this house - decking, paving, etc) I worry about the lack of storage. Mainly because I really just like to finish a room and move on. Because I use this space every day its annoying me with how uncompleted it feels to me. I do think it needs something to finish it off and look complete. But I'm glad you like it though Madeline :) I have been researching with what people have suggested and the main trouble I foresee having is actually getting the right product delivered and available. Most don't ship to where I am (I live in a small coastal city) and its about 5hrs drive from the only Ikea in the state or I will have to wait 8 weeks for delivery from over east. So I really have to plan it right. I am reading the reviews on open shelving... well lets just say that is interesting. Thanks again!

How about moving a fridge to where a pantry is per you idea, then make the rest of the right hand side cabinet a full height cabinet all the way in, and move oven and microwave to this right hand side wall. You should have a bit more storage space. For a sink, you can opt for one big single bowl either a 500 or a 700. I have had one 700 bowl for a few weeks and really like its functionality over two bowls sink of similar footprint. Keeping breaky area is nice, perhaps free up the space below like in the above comment is a good compromise for visual aspect. you could also opt for a glass top to make it a bit less intrusive.

Can i contact your sales agent on phone tonight?

Does anyone know if the Bosch stainless steel finish is similar to GE Cafe series? I'm thinking of getting a GE 36" Cafe range for our new home and love the Bosch stainless wall vent hood. Anyone know if the finishes are similar or would they clash? Would appreciate any feedback. Thanks.