I'd open it above like a 'pass-through' and bring the table out in front of it with a bench under the opening.

Sophie, Patricia you are right cleaning the crystals would be a hell of a job. Hence I would like to look at designs like the other pic I attached which is I believe from the e.ion range of Falmec. As I have mentioned before this is a second chimney. The primary chimney hood is above my gas job in the kitchen countertop and is the main and daily area for cooking. This is the secondary area which I plan to use for some quick heating, occasional stir fry etc. The pendant chimneys that I have come across in brands like Elica and Falmec do not require ducting. The filter needs to be changed every 6 months or more. With my kind of usage I am assuming I would need to change it even later. What I am looking for is different brands which have pendant chimneys. Right now I am only aware of Elica and Falmec. I know Siemens and Bosch don't have it. Siemens has 2 models which are like a flat rectangular panel to be attached to the ceiling or false ceiling. But the cost is same as the Falmec chimney. My only respite may be the cylindrical Isola chimney models from Faber or even Hafele which are ip within budget.

Buying a home that needs a lot of updating. We plan on painting the kitchen cabinets white or cream and installing granite countertops, new sink, new light fixtures, new stove vent, etc. The floor is hickory hardwood. My dilemma is the island. Should I keep it? Or remove it? If I keep it I am thinking of topping it with a dark butcher block to match the floor. I am open to any suggestions to make this kitchen better, without breaking the bank.

Suraj, If you have access to the room that you shared earlier you can try seeing the flicker effect at night time with both lights and fan being on. If the lamp has a 360 degree light spread it will cast the fans shadow on the ceiling and when the fan is turned on it causes a flikr effect. I personally find it a distraction and at the same time many would not even notice it. Take the pick based on your usage. Wall mounted fans and recessed fans can also be explored. Thanks, Nitin Cornerstone Designs, Bangalore.