I know you said the microwave will go in the pantry, but your plan shows a "micro drawer".

My last kitchen -- 1) recessing the full-depth fridge so it was a little less 'bulky' and enclosing it on all sides with cabinetry so it looked somewhat built-in; 2) having an easy-access step stool (I had a separate 9" cabinet for it in the island), 3) great lighting (halogen in my case) over the prep area, 4) a condiment pull-out next to the cooktop (my very favorite thing, which I am doing again in my new place); 5) all gadgets and utensils within easy reach, and a separate set of [cheap] silverware to use for prep and stored closer to the prep space as opposed to the silverware drawer which was closer to the cleanup space; 6) my beloved double-bin trash pullout, 7) prep sink between the refrigerator and the prep area, with disposal, 8) drawers, drawers and more drawers.

Thanks for the input. And yes, you found one of the changes since I made the last diagram of my kitchen. After much struggle and even having electrical put in for three different locations for the microwave since I couldn't make up my mind, I finally and definitely have decided to put it in one of the pantry cabinets. Luckily, there is an outlet inside (#4 microwave location) however, I have to check with the electrician to make sure my microwave won't trip the breaker at that spot).
My refrigerator was one of the hardest compromises I had to make. The good news is that I have room in the broom closet (if I put brooms somewhere else) to add a secondary fridge (though still quite small at less than 24 inches deep).
I particularly like your idea of a second set of silverware for the prep area. I have room for the step stool under/adjacent to the island - I will probably follow your example on that too since that will help me reach into the tall pantry cabinets especially. Thanks again!

I wouldn't be concerned with your 39 inch aisle space. Mine is about the same and I feel that it works perfectly for me. I had a table that was bigger than my island plopped in the middle of my kitchen for years and it never got in the way so I felt confident that I could use an island.

The only thing that I would have missed had it not been for GW is an over the range hood. I planned for an over the range micro and swapped it for a hood. I do think the otr micro would have worked fine because we really only use it for softening DH's ice cream or to reheat a quick plate from time to time.

If you haven't already, you may wish to check out the attached thread. Everyone has been posting really great ideas for designing a kitchen with aging or disabilities.

Here is a link that might be useful: Kitchen design with aging, disabilities in mind

If you can't figre out a way to hide them altogether, then horizontal outlets.....some people prefer them to be low.......I wouldn't have thought of it myself (expert cited: gardenwebbers)

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[Eclectic Kitchen[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/eclectic-kitchen-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_709~s_2104) by Los Angeles Interior Designers & Decorators Kelley & Company Home

Remember there are no rules just guidelines! When you say a 39" aisle width do you mean from cabinet to cabinet or countertop edge to countertop edge? In our personal kitchen we have 39" from countertop to countertop in the work space and prefer it from the previous 45". I have consulted on several projects where 39" has never been a problem. Sometimes the narrower space won't work depending upon the overall layout and traffic patterns. Other times people read a "suggested" width of 42" and become fixated on that number. There is nothing magical about 42" and I believe if your 39" aisle width takes into account the countertop overhangs you will be just fine. Good luck and I look forward to seeing your progress.

Good luck on your project!

We had a local cabinet maker, so my options were virtually unlimited.

Do your cabinets go to the ceiling? In several of my upper cabinets, I ordered an extra shelf, so I can store more things without stacking (coffee mugs, canned goods, etc). I have a small kitchen, and needed to maximize storage space.

DH's favorite things in our new kitchen are a built-in cutting board between the sink and range, and a knife insert, so our knives go in a drawer instead of in blocks on the counter.

We have a spice rack mounted on the inside of a cabinet door, next to the range. It's wonderful!