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.

Hi Ni, I just thought of something....did you say you planned to do the stencil motifs on the window wall? If so, I am thinking they will be mostly hidden by the curtains. I wonder if it might be better to stencil the long wall that is on the right side of the room when looking toward the window. I could see this being a pretty backdrop to the prayer box (I think that’s what you called it?) and your wood cuttings. Then maybe the opposite wall (the one with the kitchen doorway) could hold a large piece of art?

Nowadays builders from Delhi and NCR are shifting to places like alwar and bhiwadi for apartment construction, as delhi and NCR are not vacant for construction. So, the building materials charges have increased comparatively. Even if you save 5000 or 10000 in design fee, it won't make any difference. As, ultimately you have to bear contractor charges and building materials.

Hi Padmaja, im pooja talwar, for maximum utilization of space u need to break in balconies if u have one and get french windows right till ground level. so you can have a lovely dining area there or low ground sitting area where u can get outside view and spacious look too. doors which open inwards or outwards can be split into 2 so the door flaps become smaller . use mirrors huge ones carved ones on walls to reflect a larger room. also u will have to place furniture which is smaller in size . shoe racks , and cabinets can be made tall instead of having it on ground .... place on the wall hanging shelves , tall cabinets , and storage cabinets. tv can be placed on wall done up with wooden pannel. have storage up on ceiling edges rather than any where down. hope these lil suggestions help you