Hi first time posting here, we are remodeling our kitchen, and it will be mostly gutted since there is a mysterious leak somewhere. And from pricing estimates it seems rebuilding cabinets isn't that much more than painting / refinishing our existing 80's era cabinetry. We'd like to take the opportunity to improve upon the existing layout as well.

The kitchen is just shy of 12' deep, and it has circulation access from 2 sides. The existing layout has cabinetry against the plan south wall that oddly cuts into the walking path of the space, however you get used to it.

It does get congested around the sink, cooktop, and the refrigerator / pantry areas when more than one person is using the space. The cooktop is electric in the island with a downdraft currently, and we will be replacing it with an induction integrated downdraft, we've got no issues keeping it located in the island.

We're considering swapping the refrigerator and the wall oven / microwave combo locations. And perhaps taking the allocated square footage of the plan south wall lower cabinetry and moving that to the island.

Also debating putting some stool seating with a flip or pull out counter on the plan west end.

We've been working with a contractor but think we'd also appreciate any input on the general layout. Thanks in advance!