I have one sink ( from Ikea) that is 80x60cm that I use for washing and rinsing and it is wonderful. When I am not using it, i have a board ( IKEA) that fits on and makes more bench space. If you don't want to replace windows...(I wouldn't...very expensive) there is nothing you can do about the bench height unless you are very short so I suggest you let that frustration go. Maybe the area behind the bench could be a herb garden in some way if you give up trying to open that lower window. I actually think this kitchen looks good...if you just wanted a mild change, replace bottom cupboards with drawers, change all doorknobs and colour some sections of cupboard doors like an artwork. Get rid of the large dishwasher and install new sink.

The above counter cabinet doors are MDF 2 pack poly with metal mesh inserts and the floor to ceiling cupboard are MDF 2 pack poly with v grooves. Does that make sense?!

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 think the decision rests with whether you NEED a butlers pantry! No point in putting one in just because the room is there. But as one post suggested you could loose the current pantry, thus enlarging the family room, and then you maybe have need for a large pantry. I am a little dubious about a 'butlers pantry' idea in general - a storage pantry is most useful but having appliances etc in another room just means more walking from room to room during meal preparation. I think deciding to include a butlers pantry would require a great deal of thought on exactly how you would use the space. A cleanup space - yes that could be handy; where dishes and pots could be stashed during a meal, saving the kitchen proper for serving up. Still means a lot of walking! I think the kitchen work triangle is still a useful concept! And those big island benches with a sink - so your guests can sit and chat while you cook, and watch the dishes piling up under their noses? Ugh! Not for me! They look lovely when clean and EMPTY, but as a usable sociable area, not practical. (Sorry for the rant; has nothing to do with your question or your kitchen, but this is a bugbear of mine!)