Just remember that good quality tapware is EXPENSIVE and so is the plumber to change out the tap so go for the best you can afford - tapware will either make or break the look you're going for in terms of big ticket items. But go for what you want - infact take a sample of your benchtop and put it next to the tap and a stainless steel appliance in the Ikea showroom and have a look to decide for yourself - it all depends on personal taste.

I am not sure about the idea that your kitchen needs to look like it is in a display home at all times with nothing to indicate that you use it regularly. I love cooking and still manage to put used dishes straight into the dishwasher and keep the benches relatively clear. Any open plan kitchen layout will have the same issue ie you will still see dishes on the sink no matter where you place it in the kitchen. Stay focussed on the function, walking from one side of the kitchen between the sink and cooktop is not efficient nor safe. Next time you are preparing a meal imagine you are doing it in your new kitchen layout as this will test whether it functions properly for you. Definitely keep your larder/pantry you won't regret it. More than 3-4 stools at the island can be over rated, most people prefer to sit around a table as a family rather than line up at the bench looking at the sink and stove. It sounds like you have always been on the right track, just try not to over think it.

Looking at Asko, Miele and Siemens for oven, induction and dishwashers for a new build. Been to cooking demo’s for all including VZug and Neff. Asko Elements ovens seem like a good pyro and steam oven in comparison to price point for Miele (not paying $10K for one Miele oven), but don’t want to compromise ourselves down the track with maybe spending a bit more upfront for Miele ovens as they have such a good reputation. I also can’t locate many reviews for the Asko ovens. Likely going with Miele dishwashers and induction as Miele induction is built for flush mount and won’t void any bench top warranties. I’ve read really mixed reviews on the Asko dishwasher but price point between Asko and Miele dishwashers wasn’t too much. Range hood looking at Falcem. Does anyone have any experience with the Asko Elements ovens? Or should we be sticking to Miele ovens (combi steam and pyro)?

can't offer an opinion about an Aga but when deciding on my own new appliances i chose a cooktop with timer that turns itself off when i wander away and an oven built in at eye level to avoid bending down and couldn't decide how any other extras would improve my cooking experience... after 18 months i still haven't investigated all the tricks offered by my new appliances but am very happy with my choice