Hi! We have a very small house and working on a renovation to make a combined kitchen/ dining space. This will be the only dining space in the house for a family of 4.

I am leaning towards a banquette seating arrangement for the dinning space to create a distinct dining area and allow for more walkway space between the kitchen and table (we would only have to worry about walk way clearance on one side of the table instead of both sides). This is the main artery into this space so I want to make sure it doesn’t feel cramped. I am planning on building extra storage in a cabinet to one side, and for seasonal items into the seating bench.

However! My husband is concerned that by having a banquette we really limit ourselves in floor plan options… meaning we cannot flex the space to extend the table for additional seating when entertaining. He is also concerned about not having “formal” dining table and the comfort of a banquette.

Would love to get your advice and insight! Attaching a draft of the floor plan - note, this is not final and still fine tuning the kitchen section, any general feedback on the floor plan is welcomed as well! Also attaching inspiration photos for the banquette.