It will be easier to see what's what when you post your layout, including the areas surrounding the kitchen, but as a general impression, no, I don't think you have too many cabinets. I think this space can meet all of your criteria with some input on the layout that you'll get. When you post your layout, leave in the window you're thinking of eliminating. You may be right, it will be better gone, but it's better to start with what's already there.

As for cooktop on the island vs on the perimeter, generally speaking it's better on the perimeter for a couple of reasons. Cooktops really do need hoods, and a hood in the middle of the room is kind of an eye stopper. The other issue is that you are planning seating on the island. With an 8-10' island, you'll have room down at the other end, but still you'll have people seated in close proximity to the hot stuff. When there's a better alternative, take it.

Thanks for your input eam44 and Suzanne! Looks like you both think the cook top is better on the perimeter and I think you make very good arguments in support of that.Kim

Graph paper and pencil work great for 2d layouts. Doesn't need to be fancy. And a 2d layout will really help people help you and get you more responses.

I use the free Stanley floor plan app on my iPad. You can't use specific cabinets without paying per floor plan, but you can at least put in all the dimensions and appliances, and use countertops for placeholders in place of cabinets.

Ok here is the floor plan. I just used the Ikea online planning tool. I hope this will be ok. The window on the right is probably going to be removed but just in case here are the dimensions; 32 wide x 63 tall and 2' from the floor.

It's an open concept floor plan with the family room in front.

Thanks, I'm really looking forward to your ideas!

Kim

oops forgot the pic

Here are a couple of ideas. I didn't draw the extra thick stone sides on the island since there are cabinets for support all the way across. If you choose the thick stone, the cabinets sizes will be reduced proportionately.

Thanks mama goose. I'll check those out!

Mama goose made me realize I put the great room entrance way too far away from the window on the east wall. Its really only 6" away!

Love one-wall kitchens with a huge island to prep (or do other things) on - that has nothing else in the way (e.g., sink or cooktop).

The bottom left opening is marked as leading to the deck but what are the other 2 openings marked on that wall? Are they windows or doorways? If the latter, what do they lead to?

It would be very helpful if you posted something different. Your IKEA layout isn't enough. We need actual measurements of all walls.

I suggest hand drawing your kitchen space without cabinets with each wall/window/door/doorway marked and labeled (including trim) as well as the distance between each wall/window/door/doorway. Label where rack l each door/doorway leads.

Then, post a sketch of the entire floor so we can see how traffic flows in and around the kitchen.

The Layout Help FAQ has a sample layout. (I'll see if I can find one on my phone but if I cannot find one see the FAQ below.

How do I ask for Layout Help and what information should I include?

http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2767033/how-do-i-ask-for-layout-help-and-what-information-should-i-include

Here is what we need. It can be hand drawn on graph paper. You can find free graph paper on the web and download it.

Ok here is the Layout..Thanks everyone!

Why aren't you using the left side of the kitchen's space? Like this:

An L with island would be a great option for your large kitchen. (I split the single window into 2 new windows flanking the cook top.)

Oh, I wish I could Lisa, but I've got 5 door sized windows leading out to the patio.

Oh, well, dang! I figured you must have a reason why but I had to ask. =)

How about this instead?

Ice, Water, Stone, Fire; much already said about this great advice on GW.