What if you did a half wall for the length of the wall between the living room and dining room, with columns across? Would open up the spaces but also keep them distinctly separate. Like this on either side of the walkway... (obviously getting rid of the archway).

Personally I love archways, they are classic and a nice architectural touch, especially with such an older home.

I like the wall between the dining room and the kitchen, though a wider french door that matches the exterior french doors might look great... or perhaps consulting a designer would be a great direction to go in so your wife can see all the options available to the space.

Be sure to post after photos so we can see what you decided to do!