just to add some more info.

the layout with the L shows a range on the
cooking side just to show what the countertop
would look like without the wall oven as depicted
in the original layout. Also I think the cabinet
above the L should probably be larger. Agree?

I think a bookshelf for cookbooks would be a great idea! Although i collect them and am always looking for storage space so I *might* be biased! LOL!
Cheryl

how about a window seat? Or a lower counter for baking?

Absolutely definitely with this or any layout would personally want more counterspace by the stove.

Regarding the window, how low would a counter be (and how tall are you)? A lower counter makes a terrific workspace; my old baking bin table is 29" tall and the pull-out boards are 27", and it's great workspace (but I'm 19th-century short too). Do you have pets? If so, how about a windowseat for them and you other guys, with a feeding station underneath? How about the windowseat with bookshelves? Agree just bookshelves could be very nice, but a lot of people are finding standup desk stations more workable than a kneehole and chair in the kitchen; how about one of those? With bookshelves too?

good ideas all! I'm actually 6'' 3" tall so that height
is kinda low. I think the height there is 29-30 inches
but I'll double check.

I've got 2 cats and that is an idea for a window perch
but I don't want them on the counter. Actually that though
just made me nix another idea I had of having a small indoor
herb garden on top of the book case! The cats would love
that! Maybe just window seat/bookshelves.

I'm afraid to ask the GC how much it would cost to get
a new shorter window and rebrick the outside...

P.S. the countertops will be at 38 inches meaning that
the cabinet tops will be at 36.5 inches.