Looks tight as it is now, don't think you have the floor space to make it deeper. Also most everyone is getting rid of the two level counters/islands now. And ranges in the island, especially where you are having seating.

Butcher block countertops are affordable, eco-friendly, come in just about any color since you can stain them & faux-finish them to look like anything! You might consider having a drop leaf at the end of the counter to use for when eating-then you can just drop it back out of the way when not in use & it won’t take up any precious floor real estate. I’d also consider getting rid of the heavy decorative legs at the ends of the bar. You could easily fit another (small) person there where that column is sitting-if it’s an island & there’s one on the other end you’ve got room for a regular sized person with those gone! There are less obtrusive ways to support the upper level. While the double-level is becoming dated, when space & size are taken into consideration, sometimes you must choose function over trends. If done tastefully, I don’t see a problem with the 2 levels. Besides, it’s your home, you’ll be using it & YOU need it! It’s not like you’re asking for a flip!

Good luck! Hope my ideas were of some help.

I'm a bit confused. You can or can't extend the seating area? What is the one side that has room to extend?

I had the same island in 2009 and had the higher level of the island removed so only one level remaining with a radius on the corners instead of squared off. Had to redesign the base but so worth it as I found this look very dated. Here is something similar.

I had the higher level of a horrid l-shaped island removed a few years ago, but it was during a total gut job and I didn't have to worry about floors. Removing those end posts could affect the current floor. Need to know that answer.

Edit: Meaning - I removed the entire island; Habitat for Humanity was thrilled to get it, along with all of the other cabinets and appliances. I think I heard they are no longer picking up things at this time?

It looks good - what don’t you like? Get new chairs?

i can extend only the side near the kitchen table but then it wouldn’t be symmetrical.

"...i can extend only the side near the kitchen table..."

If you plan seating on that end, figure 16" more to accommodate the minimum recommendation of 15" of clear let/knee space + 1" for a decorative door/end panel on the cabinets. Once you do that, will you have at least 60" between the island and the table? If not, then you don't have room for seating on that end.

Without all the measurements, we cannot tell you what will/will not fit. However, I agree with Millworkman, it looks too tight behind the current seats. (I also agree about the cooktop in the island, especially with seats immediately behind it.)

Perhaps it would be better to wait until you can not only replace the counter, but fix functionality issues as well.

If you can only extend one end & you are worried about symmetry, attach a flip-up counter that is level with the main counter. It will only be there while in use-you can use it for prep space or pull 3-4 extra seats around it for dining. When clean up is over, simply release the latch & let the hinge down until the next time you need the extra counter space.

It doesn’t even have to match your existing countertops if the material would be too heavy. Use a nice laminate or mdf board which has been treated properly for the conditions. Faux finishers can make it look like anything!