Short version: alternatives to the bench seating in this pic that is NOT just removing the benches and putting in a round table and chairs? Interested in something that has a more integrated look like an island or something else built in. Pics below are from realtor's web site before we bought it.

Measurements are:

1. Window wall to countertop edge - 97"
2. TV wall - 73"
3. walking space between TV wall and wall/hallway/entrance - 60"

Long version: We are doing a small upgrade to this kitchen in the house we bought recently. The main purpose was to resolve the fridge beside the wall issue. The house was renovated 6 years ago so everything in the kitchen is in fine condition and we don't have the budget to rip it all out, so we are just adding on. We have already replaced the lighting and faucet. All appliances will be replaced. We have already gotten rid of the 36" gas range and will be putting in a standard 30" slide in induction range. We have also gotten rid of the table/fake island and moved the fridge over to its future position to ensure we are happy with that layout.

The countertop is Cambria and the colour is still available but I have been told the new countertop on the right, would likely not match exactly. So, I am working with the countertop people to see if we can use what is on top of the benches. It is the same countertop as the rest of the kitchen and cut countertop depth already and finished the same as the rest of the countertop. So, once I had to start coming up with a new surface and cushions for the benches, I figured maybe rip out the benches and do something else that integrated with the new 2 tone look we'll have on the kitchen side.

I gave the kitchen planner an idea, and once dimensioned for the space, it doesn't provide as much seating as I had hoped for. The current benches can hold 7 teenage girls if necessary. Also, our kids like to lounge (i.e. lay down) and watch some TV after snacking there...which is both nice and terrible at the same time. I was hoping to preserve something that held seating for a decent amount of kids when required, provided a bit of storage, but got my kids feet off the window. ;) I want it comfortable but not TOO comfortable I guess. Haha!

Here is what the planner came up with using the idea I suggested:

Below is a pic of what we are likely doing with the kitchen portion. The pic doesn't show that we are doing contrasting side panels (perhaps a wood look) in the entire kitchen, so any new cabinets would have wood look side panels along with replacing the side panels on the current cabinets. The side panels have yellowed a bit whereas the doors have not so figured we'd change the look a little while doing the rest.