Kitchen layout preference

[fryjack2]

I think I like option #1 the best. Can you put the booth from option #2 under the windows and get rid of the table? I don't know if those are doors or a cabinet across from the fridge, but I would redesign that space and get rid of them to accommodate the booth seating.

Make the booth like it is in pic #2 and add storage into it. Pull out drawers, etc. And flip the island so that people in the chairs face the stove. Add storage to the island as well.

[lolalolalola]

I like #2, it give you more seating, but I' dprobably shrink the island a little bit because it looks tight with the table seating.

I've always had a double sink in the island and love that. I do all of my prep on the island, talk to the kids while i'm in there, etc. I would also try for a full size vs counter dept fridge with 4 kids!

The designer who did our old house renovation was against an over the range microwave as well, she did a built-in. Apparently they aren't nice design wise... Our new house has one and I am 100% good with it.

[flygirl]

I like option 1...option 2 feels like it would be tighter/smaller to me

[jj]

Thanks everyone for your responses. They really helped me clarify my priorities, which until now had been pretty foggy. I knew I needed to fix the kitchen but I wasn't sure how. Priorities are
1) Budget (not doing it super cheap, but staying within our means)
2) Being able to extend our dining table
3) Having uninterrupted food prep workspace.

I just replied to our designer with some of those thoughts. I'll see what she comes back with.