First question...does your architect have a certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) on staff? Most architects are not known for creating functional kitchens...they're more for form over function (i.e., looks are more important than how the kitchen actually works for the cook!) If your architect does NOT have a CKD, then I would either look for one yourself or have a lot of input on what your kitchen ultimately looks like...with a lot of help from here!

Next question...do you have a layout for us to look at? At least a floor plan of the space you'll be using for the kitchen? There doesn't have to be anything on it other than a drawing of the space with dimensions (wall/door/window widths and distances between the walls/windows/doors). Then, tell us what you want in that space...you have a good start in your first post for that... Just

* draw it up on graph paper

* pencil in the walls, doors, windows, & dimensions of each

* show us what rooms are off the kitchen (a quick sketch of the entire first floor in addition to the Kitchen floor plan would be helpful)

* take a digital picture of it or scan it in

* post it here.

Graph paper can be found either in a store like Walmart or Target or an office supply store. You can even download a free graph paper template from the internet.

As to your specific questions...

• First, unless you're planning to sell your house in the next couple of years, I wouldn't worry about pleasing some unknown potential buyer. Why should you live with something that isn't for you just b/c some unknown person, someday might like something different? This is your kitchen, not someone elses! [Besides, not only do you not know what that unknown buyer wants, but what is "in" today for resale may very well be "out" in a few years!]

Sink in islands...Yes, you can do it, but if you can avoid it, I would. You run into several issues w/a sink in an island...first is space, you have to have a very large island to fit a sink + DW + sufficient workspace around the sink.

Next, if you plan to have seating at the island, you need to add extra overhang to avoid splashing anyone sitting behind or near the sink (at least 18" is advisable).

Third, a main sink in an island breaks up what the wonderful expanse of workspace an island presents. Lots of room for projects...baking, crafts, school, etc.
BTW...a cooktop or range in an island is even worse. There are safety issues to that arrangement as well as aesthetics (range hood hanging down in the middle of the kitchen!)
Range vs cooktop + wall oven(s)...If you rarely use a second oven, then I think your idea of a 48" range w/double oven is a good one. You'll have a second oven for those rare occasions when you need one and you won't be taking up precious storage space w/an oven that you rarely use.

However, if cost is an issue and it really is less expensive to get a cooktop + double ovens, then we can help you work it...

Hi valleigh. Just a thought regarding large range vs. smaller range and double ovens.

By the time you add in the cost of the cabinetry required to make up the difference (extra cab to make up for smaller range plus a wall oven cab) you might find that your pricing isn't all that different. The actual difference will depend on your cabinet pricing.

Hope you can post a floorplan for us. You'll get lots of help then.

Sandy