Great, thanks so much! The next problem is that I like the two-level island and my husband likes the taller one 

That looks good, @Remarka6le! Have you got a photo of your set up, by any chance? I’d love to see some real life examples

Thanks @MitchellMc! We had thought about removing that wall but ruled it out because (1) cost and (2) the lounge isn’t much bigger than the kitchen, a ...