KITCHEN ISLAND SIZE - THOUGHTS?

[Karen Margrave]

The house in San Clemente CA has an open concept plan with views to the front of the house. The kitchen is in the middle of the first floor enabling it to easily service both front areas and back yard. I'm not sure on size of island I should do. 

Questions: 

•  What is the longest island you have ever put into a home? 
• Have you used Quartz (it's now more popular than granite) 
• If you used quartz and it had seams, were they very noticeable? 

The renderings shown Page 2 of San Clemente Spec are done using a 14' island. Quartz will need to be in 2 pieces, meaning seams. I don't want the island to overwhelm, but make a statement and provide seating. I've seen them this long before, but wanted to know your thoughts and experiences. 

Weigh in as builders and homeowners please. 

@Lynn Currie   @Will Barnard   

@Jay Hinrichs    

@John Blackman undefined

@J Scott (can someone please @mention him, I never can!) 

@Kenneth Bell 

P.S. AS LONG AS I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION!!  In secondary bathrooms, shower/tub combo or 6' tile/glass shower?