For chair scoot and sit space, I'd follow the guidelines for a rug - 4' all around. Then you want to be able to navigate around the table while people are seated, so add another 18" all around. Are you locating the table at the end of the galley? Maybe you could use a banquette on one side or in the corner https://www.houzz.com/photos/3rd-street-bungalow-traditional-kitchen-austin-phvw-vp~214425

I would for sure spend the money to remove the wall and I think the idea of a large island with stools is great if you have the space it is hard to tell from the pics a floor plan woulf be very helpful and maybe some more pics from different perspectives also.

I would get a better chandalier with better lighting and IMO DRs do not have to be bright as they are mostly used in the evening.

Hi Jennifer K, thanks for your comments. The photos you have posted are really lovely but not really suited to our environment and house, which I know is impossible to tell from one photo. We have built a modern farmhouse on 10 acres. That room looks out to beautiful green countryside and the river below. The dining room is a bit of a feature and is completely different to the rest of our relaxed lodgey style house but I don't want it to be too modern, if that makes sense. The photos have given me a few ideas so thank you so much for your help!