Tribbletrouble, thanks so much for the info, it's great to know that there's a bit of a black trend happening, as the black accessories... Handles, lights, sink, legs were what we really liked when choosing but now seeing it all together it's taking a while to get used to. Like you said though. I probably just need to get the furniture and laying done. Really appreciate your thoughts, links and suggestions :)

Kitchens are the heart of s home. You need breakfast stools at your bench so people can chat to you whilst prepping/cooking. Or kids helping or eating brekkie. tables are lower so don’t work as well. It’s not about the view for these purposes. 4 stools at least with backs hopefully and allow them to tuck under bench top to clear circulation to sliders. I would keep all within current footprint. Island: min 900 (at ends) & 1200 from other benches. If u go too wide it makes it more difficult to work. Too many steps. I can stand next to my dishwasher and unload into drawers opposte without moving with 1200. And can work on island whilst someone at sink behind Up to 1500 from sliders if having stools there. Love to see finished pics I like your style. Good luck

Thanks Kate, that's good to know! No I haven't gotten a price from a cabinet maker but from doing a lot of research online, it will most likely be a lot more expensive. I'm doing an ikea kitchen, walk in pantry and laundry so there will be a lot of cabinets. I'm more than happy to go with a cabinet maker but don't really know of many that would be the same price or cheaper than ikea. Not that I expect them too either.....they are craftsman :-)

Looks beautiful. The pendant lights provide some balance for the open shelving, which being open with no upright against window add to spaciousness of window. By contrast your design is boxing in the window