I guess it depends on how much walking space you want. In this current configuration you have quite a lot of space for moving around, but do you want that? I would personally go for an L shape to maximise bench space with one section at a different height for seating. Alternatively, you could just have a standard L shape with seating on one side. Either way it's going to be quite a nicely sized kitchen.

Hi Lil, I believe your original plan works much better than the revised version. While the notion of ideal working widths is great, the larger problem here is the post. I worked on a project very similar to this last year where a post could either be connect to, or separate from the island. What we found was that by separating the island the space between island and post became very awkward. It's not enough of a space to comfortably walk through or be seated at the island in front of. Instead of your room feeling open and generous in proportion, it is going to start to feel cramped and awkward. We have a kitchen in our showroom (Kitchen Studio Tauranga NZ) with a 6ft gap between bench and back wall and it works wonderfully. It allows someone to work at the sink and a second at the island with ease. Stick with the original plan. It will feel a lot more spacious, without compromising work flows.

It really depends on the style of pool you are after. No.5 is a great look for a formal pool with full width steps leading in. This can be a stunning look when connected to an alresco or formal outdoor dining area, like this (by Natural Pools): Or even this one: The steps then become multi level seating for all ages. Children can sit on the top step, while adults can sit lower down and rest their elbows back on the higher step. This can be annoying, however, if you want to be swimming laps (short laps in a 9.0m pool) and would prefer to touch to the wall. Another detail to keep in mind is the exposed points on your steps. For a tiled pool, these can be quite sharp and a higher potential for scraped feet or legs. No. 4 has three exposed points, No.1 has one and No.5 does not have any. So if you didn't want the full width steps, I would go for No.1. It has a clean line of a continuous ledge across the pool and then the one step below that for access. All the best with your project!

Got my answer - non combustible material such as, natural stone - marble, granite or concrete etc.