Family Kitchen - Update

Thanks to Grrrowler/David for their comments...this is the "updated" family kitchen.

I really appreciate that a sink/dishwasher across from the double range/oven could be a conflict.  As a result, I have placed a prep sink in close proximity to the double refrigerator and the double-range/oven, but now positioned at the end of the island (out of the way of kitchen traffic).  Adjacent to the prep sink is a trash compactor and ice-maker.  This leaves the bulk of the central island unobstructed for meal preparation and baking. 

I have moved the dish sink to the 'other island' (the "eating island") and have added two dishwashers adjacent to the sink. 

I have also decided to add a built-in-microwave oven to the left of the wet bar, as well as an espresso machine.  I have decided to keep the wet-bar as is (with some modification from the previous sketch), and have added space for wine bottle storage.  On the central island I have also placed ample space for plate storage, but the breakfast room will be surrounded by cabinets for china. 

There will be a catering kitchen, on the lower level, with access to the butler's pantry, which connects the family area (kitchen, family room, breakfast room) to the main (formal) dining room.  There will be a staircase leading to the catering kitchen, as well as a dumbwaiter which will allow easy passage of food to the formal dining room.

Please check back soon for updates! Thank you for all of your architectural expertise and comments.  It is extremely useful!  Please continue to provide feedback.

Once I have completed the ceiling detail for the family kitchen, I will begin to provide renderings of the family kitchen.

Family Kitchen - Initial Sketches

Just to make sure you know that I am still diligently working on this project:

Here are some initial sketches of the family kitchen.  At the rear of the room sits a double-wide range/oven.  The right door leads to a pantry, while the left leads to the west (front) gallery of the home. 

On the left wall is a double refrigerator, a wet bar, and storage cabinets.

There are two islands: the central island with a fully equipped sink, and housing the dishwasher and numerous cabinets.  The other island features an area for family dining and an expansive workspace for meal preparation.

The ceiling detail is yet to be completed.  The kitchen overlooks the family room and the informal family dining (breakfast) area.

Details will be finalized soon!  Please check back!

Family Kitchen - A Teaser

Thank you to all of you who have supported this project so far. 

I wanted to share with you the initial workings for the family kitchen.  I spent the last several hours on this bit of cabinetry.  The colours and exact specifications are subject to change, as the project will evolve over the next several days.

Kitchens are not only meant to be functional, but if designed properly can also be considered a work of art.  The craftsmanship in the cabinetry defines the space.  In my part of the world, kitchens are often the place where company gathers, making it even more important that the space is aesthetically pleasing. 

Please feel free to send me your comments.  I realize this is but one bit of cabinetry, but more will follow in the very near future.  Just wanted to keep you sufficiently interested!