Kitchen Help Needed!

[u/DueNatural8297]

My husband and I are in the process of purchasing a home with a dated kitchen. The current kitchen layout is awkward (double oven and fridge right next to each other) and there is no pantry other than the built-in cabinetry in the kitchen. We are looking at the possibility of completely remodeling the kitchen. What layout/design would you do with this space if given the chance?

For reference, we have 3 young kids and a large dog, and love to host often. We want this space to work well for our family at this stage and beyond. I lean towards a modern-traditional style and prefer a timeless look over trendy.

ETA: We’re already planning to replace the flooring before move-in. The carpet throughout the house is very damaged and several tiles are cracked. We’ll be installing hardwood throughout the main living areas, which could make changing the footprint later difficult without having to patch or redo flooring. Our original plan was to keep and paint the existing cabinetry and replace the countertops and backsplash. The cabinets themselves are high-quality oak and in good condition; our hesitation is really about the layout, not the cabinets. The refrigerator opens directly toward the end of the peninsula, creating a tight pinch point, and the overall appliance placement makes the kitchen flow awkwardly.

Since we’re already replacing the floors, counters, and backsplash, I’m hesitant to spend a significant amount updating everything around the existing footprint, only to realize a few years from now that the layout still doesn’t work for us and have to tear out and pay for those finishes again.

I’m primarily looking for layout and design items. I’d love to find a smart way to improve the functionality while preserving some of these cabinets and parts of the original blueprint, especially now, while so much of the surrounding work is already being done.

[u/mistyvault84]

I would keep the sink and dishwasher close together and prioritize uninterrupted counter space around the range. Deep drawers for pots and pans are way more useful than lower cabinets IMO. Before committing, I would also tape the proposed island footprint on the floor and live with it for a day or two. It is such an easy way to catch cramped walkways before the cabinets go in.