Ditch the boring kitchen model – you know the kind, with two or three seats in a row at a square island. These plans, by contrast, feature lots of seating, creative configurations, and plenty of prep space. Much better.

A Better Island

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A curving organic shape, table extension, and seating for seven people set this island apart. A two-way fireplace connects the kitchen with the great room. On the right side of the home, three bedrooms rest. The master suite enjoys privacy on the left, and boasts a bay window, lovely tray ceiling, five-piece bath, and two walk-in closets. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Storage to Spare

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The kitchen reigns supreme in this home, with seating for four at the snack bar, another serving counter and sink station, and a separate central island with the range. A corner desk in the breakfast nook, a butler's pantry, and even a nearby "kid's nook" provide even more storage. At the end of the day, soak in the master suite's whirlpool tub (a foyer buffers the master suite from public spaces for extra privacy) or hang out by the fireplace in the great room. Three more bedrooms share a computer center, bonus room, and even an optional laundry station upstairs. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Seating for Five

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This lovely home is ready for today's active family. Buyers can take a seat (there’s room for five!) at the snack counter or at the island in the open kitchen. The heart of the home is the great room, where a decorative coffered ceiling and cozy fireplace make a comfortable hangout. The breakfast nook opens to the backyard for lots of sunshine and fresh air. A study offers a quiet work zone near the front. All four bedrooms rest upstairs, including the deluxe master suite. See more images, information, and the floor plan.

Fun Built-In Booth

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This beautiful nature-inspired home features stone and shingles on the exterior. Inside, the fireplace-warmed great room opens to the kitchen, where a built-in banquette provides fun seating for the family. The master suite resides down here, complete with a full private bath that has two sinks, a corner tub, and a separate shower. Upstairs, two more bedrooms use a hall bath, and a tucked-in desk makes a good computer nook. See more images, information, and the floor plan.