I think you hit the nail right on the head, and only you can made the decision: Counter Space or living space? Which is more important?
Perhaps a compromise? A trailer that has an L shaped counter? Ours is slightly L shaped. As we do almost ALL cooking outside, countertop is not a problem. However, it's just me and the Mrs. and the dog and cat.
My son and his 2 year old occasionally come with us. At those times, I am glad for the extra un-obstructed living room space! Food is still prepared and cooked outside. (and we do eat well, if you've ever read any of my posts).
About space, as stated above, whatever your choice, you also need to come to grips with accessibility when all the slides are IN. We searched for 5 years for a camper that was 100% accessible with all slides IN. There is only 1 cabinet (under the sink on the living room side) we cannot reach with the slide in. We keep cleaning supplies there as they normally will never be used when in transit or on the road.
Another thing.... we hit it just right, I suppose, because our model of the Outback 298RE came with a free standing kitchen table and chairs, not the dinette. Since purchase, we've removed the table and chairs, and we've removed the 2 rocker chairs and replaced those items with a full size 3 seater reclining couch ... with a high back. It's big enough someone can comfortably sleep on it. We did keep the original small hide a blow-up bed couch too. But with all free-standing furniture, you can change configurations, or swap out furniture at a whim! No modifications or re-builds to make. Just swap it out!
We never ate at the table anyway. We have 2 folding camping tables we've had for years. They are perfect for 1 person. We use them in the living room area for eating off of ... WHEN we do have to eat inside the camper.
FYI also. I added castors to the couch and put hooks under it so it can roll and be moved. We can set it cross wise between the 2 back-end slides, facing the back window or facing the television. The hooks are for straps and eyelets I attached to the floor and use straps to hook them so in transit the couch will not move. (which is does on wheels now).
I guess the answer really is, and depends upon YOUR wants, wishes, and needs. I do know, if you have the island in the middle, and if you have built in furniture, you are grossly limiting options!
