Overwhelmed & would love ideas!!

Hmmm, this is a large space and layout should really take into consideration how you use the space. This is a project that if not hiring a designer for the full project, I would at least consult for basic layout.

Yes, it is a large space!! My goal is to have a baking zone @ an island, as well as a veggie prep zone there. also, ice maker/microwave on an additional island that would have breakfast bar where camera is, but completing the area, not going in direction of current L bar you see.

I also don't know how to get more people to notice this discussion, so new to this

Like this, Ishawinfo: BUMP!

In the meantime, a few questions: How many people will be using the kitchen at a time? Do you entertain regularly, and if so, on what scale? Are there special considerations beyond baking (kosher, planning to run a business, cook for hordes, etc)?

It is hard to get a good look at the space, but there is certainly a lot of it, and I think it's an amazing space! It would be more helpful to see it with less clutter to make suggestions about how to use the space, but without such pictures, I'd suggest checking out the Pioneer Woman's lodge kitchen remodel for some rustic/rural inspiration.
http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeandgarden/category/lodge/
http://www.foodnetwork.com/chefs/star-kitchen-ree-drummond/pictures/index.html
http://southernhospitalityblog.com/the-lodge-at-the-ranch/

studio10001 we are pastors & so we entertain regularly, though not since moving into this house. We also have very large extended families & host Thanksgivings/Christmas Holidays, etc...

Yes, siennasaddler this is a pic when we purchased (still had all their items) & I haven't taken one since, but will try to upload a few angles tomorrow!! Also I will check out those sites! Thanks!

Good information to start with; Europe/insomniacs must take up the call until morning. Til then BUMP! :)

BUMP!

You're welcome! Good luck, and I look forward to some new pictures to help you more!

I think that often times, projects that appear to be beyond the scope of "design dilemmas" do not get quite as much of a response. Kitchens are very detailed spaces that require a level of attention that just cannot be given they deserve in a forum such as this.

As a designer, I am hesitant to give much advice on forums beyond color selection just because designs are highly personal and space planning, done correctly, should be an in-depth discussion and full understanding of the space and the users.

There are many kitchen designers that offer free design services with cabinet purchase. My best advice to you is to seek out local expertise, or if you prefer online services, look into the options for hiring a professional who offers kitchen design online (few do, but I am introducing it in my own online service, Open Box Interiors).

Sorry that was so long, I hope it was of some help!

I have a similar size kitchen. My advice would be to contact the cabinet makers in your area. You may be surprised to learn that it will cost the same or less than buying from a home improvement store and they will help you create a plan that will ultimately save you money and frustration.

The previous owners of our home did not have a professional designer and so did not take into consideration a working triangle, nor did they make room for more than one cook. Two cooks, even in my huge kitchen, trip over each other. It will require a complete remodel of our kitchen to make it functional, which is a shame since it is a beautiful kitchen and in very good shape.

Given your description of stations, someone with commercial kitchen experience might be a plus. A few thoughts: You seem to have room for a separate baking area, and if budget allows, I encourage the idea of separate sink (dishwasher?) and oven, away from from the primary cooking zone, and not an island.

For better efficiency,think of your planned island space as a prep/serve station. While you might consider placing your primary sink here, you will want a design that allows quick dish transport, as well

A work triangle, as mentioned above, should be outlined,keeping imagined traffic patterns within and between zones in mind.

A designated area for hot beverage urns will keep guest traffic out of the cooking zones.

Before talking to a professional, arm yourself with details: all room dimensions, current gaslines, electrical hookups, air vents, windows, and as strong an idea as you can muster for storage and appliance needs, as divided by cooking zones (primary, baking, secondary prep - if applicable, serving, beverages)

We would love to help! We posted earlier a similar dilemma on our FB page for all our company designers and dealers to chime in, and the requestor got some good advice from the pros. A very good recommendation from Annie here to contact a local cabinet maker with design services. We have locations nationwide and provide these services. You can locate a dealer/showroom near you on www.armstrongcabinet.com. Good luck with the kitchen remodel. You have a great space to work with!

Just an idea, but you could convert the cabinet counter closest to the camera into a bar counter (and remove the lower section). Extending the lip of the counter would be required, but if you're getting new countertops, this won't be an issue. Then take the cabinets off the way and replace them with open wall-to-wall shelving. Add in a cohesive rustic backsplash and you have a function and contemporary dining area.

The other half of the room may be too narrow for an island, so I would suggest wrapping the bar around the corner to make it less empty.

Ishawnfo

The size of your kitchen is envious LOL.
With that kind of space you can just about do anything.- However, it has to be done properly or it can turn into a dysfunctional area.
There are great kitchen designers out there using 3D renderings to help you. I would recommend contacting a local designer that can work with you personally. If you can’t find one there are plenty of great people that can design it via the web providing you with renderings so you can see what it will look like

The first thing you should do is clear away the stuff left behind, ....sorry……
Then map it out on a simple drawing

Start thinking about what you really are going to need. Are you going to benefit from two Dishwashers, Maybe a double Island for guest to hang out at, place for your laptop, etc.

AND ....most of all…Enjoy the process!!

Best wishes
Olav

Some great ideas are included in these comments! It appears in the picture that the “working triangle” of the kitchen doesn’t really exist. We suggest locating the range closer to the dishwasher and sink for better flow of the kitchen (can’t tell if there’s a wall oven on the left or not). Place the range in an added 6’ island near the sink/DW. This is definitely a sizable kitchen and would lend itself to at least one, possibly two pantry cabinets, this would be very helpful for storage - especially larger items. Removing the lights is a must, we suggest installing at least 2 ceiling fans along with some crown moldings around the entire ceiling.
Design and style of new cabinets is personal but we suggest getting ideas from Armstrong Cabinets: http://www.armstrong.com/rescabam/na/cabinets/en/us/ , they offer a very large array of options to suite any taste. Taylor Homes Customers love their selections!”

If you are able to post again, I think lots of Houzzers would enjoy following your process!

I second Annie's suggestion. If the budget does not allow for a designer, consult a good cabinet store. They will have a ton of ideas after they measure the space and consult with you about how you wish it to function. A professional cabinet store is essential; don't be lured by big box stores. That's my 2 cents. :) Looking forward to see updated photos!