Tsilanko, I would always recommend professional installation where needed. But what I am doing here is suggesting that WHEN you are planning to build or renovate, to consider how your plans will affect you in 20 or 30 years time. Split levels are very hep when you are young. A kitchen 3 steps down at 30 is rarely a problem, but might be a hazard at 60, or, as Marjie1059 suggested, if you break a leg. ... All my parents' homes were terrible for old people. They were forced to move to a bungalow in extreme old sge because the location and design of their home was more suitable for an active young couple with a large family than for an elderly couple with stroke disabilities. I would not want to move again, so my present home has features built in that make ageing in place simpler. Mostly small changes, like grab rails, and lever handles on doors and faucets. A major disability suddenly suffered requires major changes if permanent. I did look at this because it came up in the discussion, but if you look at the heading, Planning for Disability, it means just that. Plan ahead so you don't have to make expensive changes later on. But thank you for your advice, yes, major changes are not in the DIY domain.

It sounds like you have first hand experience with buying "cheap" kitchen cabinets - they just dont hold up more than 5 or 10 years. There are 2 issues with budget kitchen cabinets first is the structure/wood used..if not built correctly the wood dents and joints break with wear and tear. You can inspect for this before buying new cabinets. The finish is also very important and unfortunately it all looks good to start. THis is where you need to go with a reputable brand to ensure a good quality finish. Price for cabinets generally reflects quality so paying more will generally get you better quality cabinets. You can get a remodel cost estimate for your kitchen with the remodel cost calculators at www.remodelormove.com. To save on good quality cabinets select the finish and style you want and then check the brands that offer them then look for sales and specials many times you can find 10% off or more.

Mohammad. I understand your program. You may be lost in the details at the moment. Please do follow and trust the advice given here by all these people. You are about to embark on a reasonably expensive journey. Get professional help with someone who you can sit down at a table and brainstorm with them your ideas and intentions. There are Architects and there are professional building designers who are members of the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) who are well versed in projects such as yours. I personally love a design challenge. After 38 years designing homes and special use buildings I enjoy this type of challenge the most. I am in Ohio and may not be close to where you are but I am sure with a little investigation you will find the best design professional for you.

Seems weird not to incorporate it into the design -- I'm all about having things "look intentional" rather than working around them later. Like could the island have connected to this, rather than extending past it? or been L-shaped, so there's room for an extra stool, and also a wall cabinet? Anyway, hard to discuss that in the abstract without kitchen plans. I'm with miacometlady's original advice to not worry about it right now, and decide how to deal with it once the bulk of your kitchen is in place. You might find that you hardly notice it, with all the beautiful new finishes, or it might seem obvious to put some stainless or glass shelves there, or maybe simple is best and one simple hanging picture does the job. Don't stress about it until After. :)