I keep it on the counter, on a pretty cake pedestal, next to my tomatoes. I don't eat it all at once so need a place to keep it until all used. If it sits around too long it starts to smell strongly of garlic, that's when I know it has gone off. Otherwise it does not have an odor, and it is very pretty in its show white gift wrap.

Hmmm, I initially had same idea as bigreader about fridge placement where microwave shelves are, but I doubt there's ample width for a fridge there. Then there's issue with fridge door opening into same area as that door that we are wondering about. What size is your fridge? It sounds like you are considering placing the fridge on the carpeting with the back in the dining/living space. Is that correct? It's generally not a good idea to place a fridge on carpet in case of leakage and subsequent damage to the carpet. Do you own the apartment/unit? If so, this may give you more options. If you were able to remove the bench/cabinet to the right of your stove and the overhead cabinets there, that could be enough space for a fridge. But you would lose food preparation and storage space. As has been suggested, the wall opposite the stove could accomodate more overhead cupboards. It would be helpful to know what that door is for, the size of your fridge, and if you are able to do renovation to the apartment.

annb1997 - I’m not sure if I was clear. The microwave and the fridge are currently side by side. Currently the fridge is to the left and the microwave to the right. I was asking about swapping them around - ie the fridge to the right and microwave to the left. Reason was to create better access for the fridge as it’s further from the island bench. The APP cupboard near the external stacker doors is just a normal full height cupboard - it was supposed to be the appliance cupboard but decided on a normal cupboard. Must update the plan to reflect this.

Hi Siriuskey, thank you, that is really a great option. Floorplan-wise it makes sense and makes use of the hallway space (hallways being somewhat redundant). Also makes use of the radiant power of solid-fuel heating to heat the bricks up. I would estimate around $7K to do the structural work, just cant do that right now, but I may keep that up my sleeve for down the track. I think you 'get' the sense of scale, by not putting any cupboards on the wall it's a good way to open the space in this reno The more I get into it I realise the difference between renovation and restoration. Probably been edging on the side of restoration (ie heritage focus) but am getting more pragmatic. Thanks again, cool layout