HI -- If one of those very modern open style vanities that have a full formed sink top was used instead of the two separate pedestal sinks , that might work and not spoil a house sale . The tops come in various sink arrangements such as one big trench or two formed ones and they have top counter space . The sink tops are a feature but on an open fancy frame base made of metal or wood. And the sink tops are varied made out of formed glass or concrete or porcelain or stone . Very cool looking .

Why don't you have an L shape and use the area under the window also for your sink and a couple of extra units? you could add shelves on either side of the window? Not sure why your fridge has to go at that end? might be best at the other end? As Sarah, suggests, get full height cupboards, and put the microwave in one of those, so that you're not losing so much space. Extra storage is probably more useful than having the microwave on display? It can easily be put on a shelf within a cupboard. (Our isn't even in our kitchen, but then we only use it once a week or so... so really depends) I'd also suggest drawers to the bottom of your units instead of cupboards.

Don't be swerved away from hand painted tiles! The best way to add colour and originality (I make hand painted tiles so I may be biased). I would take the tiles to just under the bottom shelf, and up to the hod. We have had tiles behind our cooker for 21 years, and we don't find the grout staying clean a problem. By the way - I think subway tiles will look dated in a few years, as anything bang on trend tends to do.

Buying taps for three new bathroom sinks: 80cm, 70cm & 60cm. Any guidance on tap dimensions welcome.