Hi there - I am the new owner of a '71 ranch and am doing a budget kitchen overhaul. So far I've removed the ugly brown laminate upper cabinets. Woo hoo! My plan is to remove soffits (think this is possible but not 100% yet) and install cabinetry above and to the right of fridge, but not over sink or peninsula. I like the look of open shelving so want to try that there. The room is wide enough to extend the peninsula for more counter space, so I'll probably do that as well. I don't want to get into moving the range, but am wondering if having that open expanse of counter behind range is going to be an issue. I'm used to having a wall behind the range. Where do I keep my salt and pepper, even? In a drawer below? Otherwise I'm worried the countertop will look cluttered since it's so flat. Should I try to move stove to right of fridge? Not alot of room . .any advice on u-shaped kitchens would be helpful.