Interior Design consultation for a layout of tricky space

I'm currently renovating an old flat. I already have a contractor but most of the design has been left up to me. I'm stuck as to the layout of the living/dining area though. Ive hacked a couple of walls between the living room and kitchen and I don't know what to do with the space. The use of these areas will be having family meals, making drinks and entertaining guests, so I need a layout that accommodates these purposes. I w.as originally thinking of having an island/penninsula where that beam is (it can't be knocked down) Also open to having a reading or cat nook. Some ideas I had included using breeze blocks/glass blocks.

Key requirements:
- Ideas for a tricky little nook
- A combination of formal and casual dining setups
- An eclectic and vibrant aesthetic

Looking for someone who can think out of the box to troubleshoot this little layout conundrum.