A couple of observations:
Formerly I had my instrument panel high in the overhead. I found as my eyes aged the angle for viewing (tilting neck/putting on glasses/focusing) was becoming more effort and less reward. For that reason I switched to in front of the wheel just below the chart table.
In front of my wheel is a wonderful area for full sized charts, coffee mugs and more. Plus the compass.
That's a roll of paper towels incidentally. Didn't notice that before.
There is an angle about 6" wide that allows me to see clearly and the instruments are out of the way. Frankly I'm not keen on a bunch of stuff between me and the front windows. The compass suffices.
That said, I'm old school. We always steered by compass course and I continue to do so. It's just easier/more intuitive for me.
As far as doorways, having one on each side is a True Blessing. That was one of the criteria for purchase when I was looking for Seaweed. I want to be able to solo (make that "need") so having access to those side cleats is critical.
However, while underway and at anchor for the most part, I have devised netting to go over my sliding doors. If a rogue wave should unbalance me, I'll still be aboard. This is a picture of my setup:
This works quite well however there is a problem. On the Gulf Coast I'm seeing lots more boaters and I'm one of those who waves. My netting makes that a slower process. This week I'll figure out a way to hang the netting a bit lower to facilitate waving.
Y'all wave back now, okay?!?
I am fortunate that Seaweed has a large flat area for my chart. I also tuck the netbook in the corner for OpenCPN
I am envious of some of those captain's chairs you have. They look totally comfy. Mine was AWFUL. I finally took it off and got rid of it. I did keep the post so I could go with another replacement.
The problem with mine was even with the seat slid all the way forward it was "too far" to reach the wheel. And it was uncomfortable.
Then I went for a ride on an older Hatteras. It had the original helm chair and that was wonderful. The seat was fastened to the deck when underway or could be moved. I'm enamored.
So I'm looking around -- four legs, sturdy, small and with arm rests the proper height.