I really don't mind the two tier. Did you say you're getting new countertops? and tile splash?
Are you having the cabinets professionally painted? you know you'll pay at least 5-7K to have those done, right? Plus the new countertops and tile, you're up to almost 15K. Are you sure you don't want to change the layout? It would be nice if you could break off that end and just have a large island.
But, if you want to keep the layout,
see if these pics help.
this is my fave angled peninsula
Q
peninsula & corner pantry next to fridge
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