Really don’t like either proposed plan.
Is a table supposed to go in the kitchen?
That’s a mudroom door? Can it be moved?
Do you have a plan of the whole floor?

An L shape + island would be nice. If laundry door moved as noted, can cabinets go on the (formerly drawn) laundry door wall? Then the perimeter cabinets wouldn’t have to impede on a table area on the right. Can’t tell much without room measurements though.

Where is your patio located, outside the existing door through breakfast area? Is the deck and screened area staying as is? I would keep as many existing doors/windows and utilities location as possible to keep cost down especially since your layout is one of the most practical. What is the objective of this reno, why are you doing it? What do you hope to improve/accomplish. I agree with previous comment your existing layout is much better than the " new" proposed...You have so much space you should be able to do what you want

Yes, it seems very unnecessary to relocate the door. No gain in either proposal that I can see.

@emilyam819

Here is the current plan of the first floor. The current breakfast area opens to a deck. The current dining room opens to a screened-in porch. We are considering adding a garage/mudroom addition (so the barn door in the mock-up doesn't yet exist). The intention with the 2nd design proposal (no laundry) is to have a table at the far right.

@LilDesignWorks The objective of the reno is to modernize, lighten/brighten, and improve the flow. I'd also like to have a large island for gathering. The current kitchen layout is tight and choppy... not to mention hideous. We purchased the home 6 months ago and have been busy turning the basement into an in-law suite... so we haven't been able to give the upstairs the attention it deserves!

Are you contemplating eliminating a table altogether? If not, where is a table supposed to go? Terrible idea for resale to eliminate all dining spaces...

I think you will enjoy prepping while facing the room, so I'd suggest keeping the island sink. You also need a table, so here are some modifications to the second plan. The range and hood are m/l centered on the foyer, and the table and French doors on the LR. Island is longer, with clean-up zone on the side near the table, outside the prep triangle. This will allow helpers to load or unload the DW, or gather dishes to set the table, without interfering in prep or cooking tasks. Make sure the fridge doors sit proud of the enclosure, to allow them to fully open for removal of crispers.

Is there any space near the bedrooms which could be turned into a laundry area?

NKBA guidelines

New to Kitchens? Read me first.

Here is another option the kitchen designer suggested (if we nix laundry in here):