Let the drafting begin!

After many bubble diagrams to map out the space, I have a design in mind. The hardest challenge was trying to give the family seating for 6 as well as the large laundry list of other wants/needs. I ended up designing an island with seating on two sides so that they can face one another somewhat. It may end up ovular on one side to provide even more face to face seating(sitting in a single line is not very conducive to conversation). The island will also include the sink and dishwasher. I initially wanted the range there, but realized that then there would be a large range hood over the island. I have to make sure that this would not in fact impede Steve's caretakers from a clear line of sight into the living room. I may end up switching back as I'd like to put in a nice sized window looking out into the yard and if I put the range on the yard side it's going to be tough to also fit windows and some wall cabinets.

In order to give the most room for their bulk storage needs I am fairly certain I'm going to have to scrap the separate wall ovens in favor of a duel fuel range (induction top). This will allow plenty of tall pantry storage where the wall oven/microwave would have gone.

The children will have their own 'prep' area near the door to the garage. An under counter refrigerator and counter top microwave will be within reach so that they will be able to prepare their school lunches at night and not be in Marilyn's way as she's preparing dinner. I want to make the back splash in this area either a chalkboard or cork board so there is a message center to help this busy family without taking way too much wall cabinet space.

All the work aisles are 48" with the exception of the kids prep area, where I hope to have 60" to play with in case someone is in a wheelchair they can at the very least have enough room to turn the chair around.