I think a comfortable distance between the island and the counter is around 42". It seems that you have only 30" between your cook top and the counter. I might be a little too tight. The wall between the entrance and the kitchen could be 4' long instead of 6', you would then be able to move the island a foot which would give you more room between the cook top and the island. Could you switch the location of the toilet and vanity in your dad's bathroom so your enter facing a vanity instead of a toilet which is a lot nicer.

You will need space to walk and for your feet if you turn the chairs around - if you put a divider in you will block the view from the dining table out to the balcony - and thus make the kitchen and dining room both have no view ! So if you keep it open, the natural light can get through !

Congratulations to all of you. Its a wonderful platform to be on and you all are doing a great Job. My favourite Design Style is 'Minimal'. I just have this strong connection with simple, subtle and elegant things. Cheers:)

I am assuming you haven't finalised your wall colours and colours of any other fixed elements. In case you have finalised your color scheme you would need to see which of these colours blend well or complement with that scheme. Assuming none of this info is available, then you could look at the neutrals which go with all colours. The white tile and the 2 colours at the end would be preferable. If you want color on the floor as well as drama, you can choose from the 2nd options from both sides or even the 1st from left.