Looking for thoughts on a family room addition. Current house is a 2-story colonial, approximately 2000 sq ft, built in the 70s. First floor originally had a kitchen, dining room, living area, tiny den? area with fireplace. Recently renovated the kitchen, taking down the dining room wall and incorporating that area (where the peninsula is now) into the kitchen space. Would like to make the living space into a dining room (as shown in floorplan), and add on a large family room. Family of 5 with 3 kids under 12. Have been in home for 12 years. No plans to move.
We have plenty of building area on the left side of the house. Thinking of a space in the ballpark of 18x22, with a large entry off of the kitchen and possibly additional entry from the dining room

Requirements:
~ Fireplace and TV not on the same wall. Will not put TV over fireplace.
~ Access to future patio in rear
~ seating for at least 5
~ nice views, particularly to front and side of house

Not feeling confident that this the best size (18x22 exterior) or orientation of the room, especially regarding furniture placement and traffic flow. Seems as though the fireplace should be on the side wall, in order to be the focal point when entering the room. However, that forces the TV onto either the front or back wall, with traffic flow to sit down somewhat difficult. Thoughts?