Usually when you get side panels you automatically have space on the sides. If you have a full depth cabinet on the top, you automatically have space at the top and in most cases you will have leave at least 1 inch of extra room for the back of the refrigerator, so there is always air circulation since everything is enclosed. In the 70's they use to make a small recessed space behind like Fred said, today you don't have to do that, most Ref have flat backs, recessed wiring, not to mention the supply for ice-maker also comes in a flush mounting kits for the wall... so pretty much everything is recessed and only space you need is for air circulation and 1" is more then enough. In addition, if you make recessed area now and you push ref to far you will never get your doors open so doing all that is a waste of time, in addition most manufacturers starting to make 30" side panels.

I would not have a partition. It is just one more thing to clean, and adds a sense of clutter to the open space. I'd arrange sofa to face away from the kitchen, though. The sofa will then be facing the terrace garden, too.

Jt Kr, Either the technician is making a weird suggestion or you may have misunderstood his suggestion. If the Chimney is installed 360 mm away from the wall the entire hob unit projects out by 360 MM. It would technically make it difficult for any taller person to cook. As it will be brushing against their heads. The suction may be impacted. What he may be suggesting instead (please recheck) is that don't mount it on the wall rather some models can be installed on the ceiling. He may be referring to that installation on the beam. (Such models are called island hobs) If you have the floor plan and 2 D elevation measurements we can try recommending alternatives. Thanks Nitin Cornerstone Designs, Bangalore.

It Depends on the size of the cut out and how is it connected to the other parts of the building. For example- 1. If it is connected to the kitchen and living room and has sufficient space can be used as dining with double height and skylight. 2. We can hang a chandelier that kind of shines or be something visually appealing in natural light 3. for function based we can make it a electrical room or a small storage along with skylight P.S. there are numerous options but we need to find a suitable function of it first and we also need to see if it is either designed for other thing rather than just being a sky light.