There was a time when a kitchen was only used for preparing food; usually one woman was alone in the kitchen cooking all day for her family or guests; these days, the kitchen is the heart of the home, it is where everyone gathers together. The cook is no longer alone in the kitchen, missing the party; the party has come to the cook.
A kitchen is a place where friends and families connect; it is the most important room in the house. During parties or gatherings of friends and family, most people prefer to hang out in the kitchen. The dining table is set, there are big comfy chairs in the living room, but most guests are standing in the kitchen because the kitchen is more intimate, and everyone knows that is where the best conversations take place.
Since people will be hanging out in your kitchen, you may as well design it to accommodate everyone.