Without a vent in that room, you will end up spending a lot more money on heating and cooling or you will spend a good amount of money to add one. The except is if you are already planning to tear out the floor in the kitchen. In this case it wouldn't be terribly much more (though this depends on what is under that part of the house. a cheaper option maybe to move where your fridge stays. There is a concept that "triangle" formats are more efficient, but many cultures have everything on one wall and it works great too. So I think that rule can go out the window.

personally id look at two options, one where the wall with the window has a fridge on one side and the stove on the other. More ideal if you like to bake as that requires a lot of counter space in a row.

If you do more cooking, you will want the stove on the long wall where the refrigerator is. It doesnt need to be in the same spot, in fact I would center it if you can.

lastly, if you are wanting to update the spindles but keep it open for air, look at getting a glass fence. They are used for outdoors. You can spend a lot more on a solid one, but I find the sections of glass much more affordable. they are study. It looks very open but still allows for air to easily travel as well.

Definitely needs to wait until you know the space. And you’ve lived with it. I agree you could use pantry space. I also agree to use the space to the right or back rather than enclose and darken this space. Glass also sounds like an idea. Wondering if it’ll look office buildingish.

I love the glass idea. The room behind the kitchen is a dining room and then living room together. Here are some pictures of that

Maybe a half wall that is no taller than the spindles would be okay, but extend it to be a full wall closer to the sink to put in a pantry. However, as stated how are you going to match the existing cabinets.

Since there is no dishwasher either, I agree that a kitchen design is needed.

With the dining room behind the kitchen, you have the opportunity to expand the kitchen and completely change the layout of the kitchen and dining area. Although that is a big job and needs a professional design, it will likely add value to your home when you're ready.

I think opening the dining to the kitchen would be money well spent. Make that a priority after you move in.