Hi Nicole, thanks for your message! I do love my kitchen. Our layout is absolutely perfect. I honestly wouldn't change anything. The island is 3m x 1.2m (nice and big) and the distance from cooktop bench to island is 1120mm. Cooktop bench is 2380mm. Sorry, on second thought I would change just one detail! The cupboards under the island on the stool side are push-open and it is actually very irritating as my kids don't sit still so they're constantly kicking them open with their feet/legs! Other than that, I love everything. I like having the sink in the island as I'm washing up more often than cooking so I can keep an eye on the rest of the house. We have a big bin drawer for separated rubbish and recycling next to the sink. Our dishwasher is on the other side. The microwave is under bench too with a drawer underneath and next to this is a smaller cupboard for kids plates, bowls, beakers (easy access for the kids to help themselves) and chopping boards. It all works well. Goodluck!

Hi Gioenne... We are empty nesters but have two dogs (one large) which is why there is no coffee table. I've ordered two small side tables from a local furniture maker which will have a modern feel but made from reclaimed wood.. We let our dogs on the furniture so it has to be durable... I'm leaning towards modern low sofas. We entertain a lot in summer...

Yes, you can still achieve a retro look with modern products. There are a lot of wall panels for bathrooms on the market. And wood or wood veneer wall lining for other rooms. For example, Bunnings have lining boards in a variety of wood looks. Both in a gloss or matt. They are around 9-10mm thickness. http://www.bunnings.com.au/cedar-gloss-lining-board-90-x-9mm-x-3-6m-glosswood-10-pack_p0071387 I believe the board you're thinking of was wood veneer that was quite popular in the 70's and was thinner. I think it still can be found but not sure if in the quantity you would need.

you could have a desk in the corner I presume you have a computer or something like that, and a nice chair , replace the tv unit with something bigger and enclosed so you can hide all the staff you have lying around . Try to get one with lots of drawers it's more practical and it shouldn't be to low , when you're sitting down tv should be straight in your eye sight. Hang most of your artwork on one wall like a gallery wall (behind the to).A large rug would be nice and maybe one side chair or couple footstools for when you have visitors. Table lamp and floor lamp would complete the picture.