Just bumping in case anyone willing to help. Thanks

I think you need to post a floorplan of the entire duplex so we can see how the homes are connected, how the pantry wiil be shared, where the dog door air lock fits in, etc.

Just a quick change to the plan you posted--I'd put the DW on the left of the sink, basically flipping the island. That way the DW is out of the prep area, and dishes can be kept in drawers across from it. With the dishes in that location someone can set the table without interfering with prep or cooking--put those guests to work. ;) With such a nice, wide island, an occasional helper can also work diagonally across from your prep area, or on the short end by the DW.

Thanks to all! MamaGoose, your switch of the DW makes a lot of sense. Don't know why I was fixated on having it to the right, but this works much better. Stan, I had the feeling it was a bit short on counter space. I probably should do way with the tall cabinet on the deck end. Lucy, I am not comfortable posting the entire plan, simply because it is our architects work, but I can post a bit more so you can see how the spaces relate. This is not a mirror image duplex. Our side has master and an office on the main level with a guest suite up, while the kids' side has living dining kit and a small guest room down and master bedroom, laundry, another bedroom and two baths up. Both sides have the potential for a finished basement, walkou on our side. The air lock for the dog door is simply under counter space that can be closed off or kept partially closed.

Thank you for posting more detail. I was very curious as to how a duplex would share a pantry. Clever design.

Thanks, Lucy! We have planned some unique features for our lifestyle, but all things that can be changed easily for resale in the future (not that that's in our plans, but the kids might want to someday after we're gone). Notice the doorway at the stair landing? That is designed so that the (30 something) kids,can use our upstairs guest suite, when they have overload. SIL comes from a large family and by designing it that way, they can use our guest room, while not intruding on our private areas -- it will just seem like part of their side. We've done the same thing to the basement areas for shortage and in. Ase we decide to finish our side, the kids will have the use without coming though our private areas. For resale, this doorways can be easily closed off. It has been a fun puzzle to allow sharing, while protecting privacy.

What a unique solution to multi-generational family living! I'm quite impressed.