After posting that, I decided to make the changes I'd mentioned, plus a couple more.
I added the dishwasher, which meant changing that bit of counter as well as lengthening the bar area. I then moved the chairs to accommodate the longer bar.
I took off the wall and doorframe at the hallway, and now the HVAC unit is visible.
I removed the regular door between the bedroom and den, replacing it with a sliding door. I figured that that would be less intrusive to the bedroom. I also moved the electric panel and power box so that they're in the den from the bedroom.