In the original layout, the hallway is a cramped space for access to the living room, kitchen, dining room, garage, and both ascending and descending stairways.

The new design removes the constraining barrier and allows multiple people to pass simultaneously. From this perspective you can also see the peninsula counter with the bar overhang.

Retaining the "phone wall" constrains the space, but the space could feel less cramped by removing the door to the descending stairs.