You are required a set down area of a minimum of 200mm either side of a cook top (I'd recommend more though as I don't like to feel like my pots are hanging over the edge of the bench). Your 3m width will leave enough for a small sink (400mm width?) so a quick calculation 600mm settle down + 900mm cooktop + 400mm sink = 1.9m... plenty leftover space in the 3m Good luck! Sophie

1 will look lonely and lost, unless its a stunning chandelier, while drawing attention to its self and away from the kitchen overall. Don't forget that lights are there for a purpose and 3 will provide a much more even illumination of the workspace.

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Firstly, thank you all for your contributions! Very much appreciated. CP yes the floor plan has been quite divisive, it is quite a significant change from existing (kitchen currently at dining, stairs currently where powder room is) but my preference is for an open plan/kitchen as this is where we like to congregate as a family. The weird gap is to allow for separation from the cooktop as I am not sure if the 100 gap is wide enough and practical, as well as extended space for appliances (toasters etc) - though I do agree that storage in the island is probably just as good. The double doors I agree are troublesome. This is a strata complex in a heritage area, so getting approval to change these would be cumbersome, and we’re aiming to start works in February next year… Jess, a galley style certainly is an interesting idea! Would allow for a lot circulation and a lot more space. I think The island would be Provide for a bit more seating, correct? Though I guess I’m open to it, ultimately I think you are right - some advice (beyond everyone’s here which is so great!) may be needed. Dreamer, I think I am okay with 900 for circulation around the island - can always just go the other way! Siriuskey thank you for all of the input. Yes, it is a townhouse. The first designs is exactly what I was thinking, but a steam oven instead of a microwave oven. One thing I have always wondered is whether a 600mm bench for 600mm cooktop is enough? What about for pans and handle lids that might extend beyond the 600mm and therefore be hitting the back wall? The side wall (the one with the column) is also a concern. I like the idea of putting pantry/oven/fridge all on the left hand side, it will push everything on the wall side down. I would like the ‘dish washing’ sink to be on the cooktop side and the smaller sink to be on the island. Dishwasher on the cooktop side as well, which I think can fit.