Last piece of advice simonsays - never "assume" anything - more often than not people sorting through this stuff on their own misjudge, either in under or over estimating what's involved, incorrectly thinking that it will be either easier or harder than it actually will be to achieve whatever it is......you need to define your various project requirements/details etc as a starting point, and have clarity on what aspects are more or less important for you. This also must include your budget BEFORE you put pen to paper working through the design solution...so if you want a 2-way fireplace, consider it now, and factor it in within the process of working through the costs (which should be occurring simultaneously.........also, remember that "design" is a process, working towards an outcome, which as always is about resolving project requirements to budget within a particular context/conditions.......the project outcome, whatever that is, will be very much determined by the design process and the extent it is invested in and executed....hope this all helps and best of luck with it all :) PD

Hi liisabb, I have drawn up my thoughts from my original post. In your original post, you have said you would preferably like the island in the same orientation as plan posted. With my thoughts the island will change. Looking at kitchen on left hand wall, I suggest a full enclosed appliance cupboard, pantry, storage area. With sliding doors, as per photo. If you must hide your dirty dishes, put them in there and close the doors. I have put the dish washer in the island, with easy access to those dirty dishes. Back wall is a window splash back with sink and cook top. Left hand wall is wall oven more storage and fridge. With door to laundry as per your revised plan. This kitchen gives you plenty of bench space, place to put and use appliances, hide dirty dishes, easy access to dishwasher as per your original brief. The reason for open plan is to be part of your gatherings. In my opinion I would not like to be stuck in a butlers pantry/scullery preparing meals, when my friends are in my kitchen. Thanks.

Hi Sarim, at first I thought that this gap was incorrect. But then I looked back on photos of our home when we built, and the builders did the same. Our kitchen is wonderful, no problems with benchtop or little creatures into our home. I have attached photos of before and after.

Have you considered using a window as your kitchen splashback? Splashback windows can be placed behind your benchtop and come in two forms: fixed or operable. Both showcase your view and invite natural light into your kitchen. Operable splashback windows provide for extra ventilation and airflow. Perfect for dimly lit kitchens as well as a practical, stylish, and modern kitchen feature. Which style do you prefer? - A Fixed or Awning window splashback. Option 1 - Fixed Window Option 2- Awning Window