In our last house we had a small peninsula bench that allowed an overhang with space for two barstools. Our new house allows space for maybe three or four. Realistically, it's nice to have a place that folks can sit on, drink in hand, and chat to the cook. I don't find overhangs on island or peninsula benches attractive for actually having a meal. At all. I think a lot depends on how much space you actually have. An overhang and a couple of barstools can give you a bit of flexibility without taking up too much room but if the space can be better used elsewhere, go for it.

That is a dream bench top. exactly what I had and what I would do again. Once your kitchen is finished it is going to look great. Your original vision and gut feeling for what you wanted was right. You just need to see the bigger picture when it's in the middle of the build. The overhand is perfect. Too small and there would be nowhere to put your knees. Cant wait to see the finished room. Also dont fret. Once decorated with pots pans, coffee machine etc.. you'll be in total love with it.

@purplekristi - yes the kitchen has a gable window which makes all the difference to the light! @oklouise - sorry that's the latest floorplan I have, although most of the changes we complete before we bought the house. we did fill in the cavity slider (highlighted green) off what is marked as dining area on the plan. I've made some measurements on the attached plan. the filled in green area has been made a front hall with entrance door at the end. and the carport made a filled in garage. I do know the highlighted orange wall is definitely loadbearing, but would have to check on any others. thank u all for your input!

I really like the ceiling, as others said it gives it atmosphere and frames the view. When you say pine, I'm thinking you mean the finest of all the pines - Oregon which is fine grained and a warm honey colour. I have a cathedral ceiling and I would gladly swap my bland white faux Hamptons look with you any day! I would look at a large rug for the floor - if the budget is small, find a carpet that you like and get it edged as a rug - my favourite hack. I agree to bring in some black in the curtain rods and swap out al that cream/yellow paint for a neutral white. Your kitchen reminds me of mine circa 1998. Change the splash back to something neutral. Even white painted glass or a white textured or interestingly shaped tile. Swap out your bar stools for timber and introduce some timber elements in the kitchen to match the roof. Think chopping boards,, timber bowl for fruit, utensil holders, pot plants. Paint the walls white as well. All the creams in the world won't help the ceiling look better. you need to work with it not against it. Good luck and keep us up to date!