Thank you everyone for your responses, I realize that I asked a lot of questions for one post...
Muebe, are you saying vacuum packing extends the life in fridge? I only considered freezing, so that info (if I'm reading correct) is new to me, and would be worth it.
Tig, thank you for the clearance isle idea, I'll check them out. I'd like to build something custom, but maybe I can buy some pieces to incorporate. I want an outdoor prep area because I agree, I cook outside because I like to be outside, and I have lots of outdoor space that I want to make functional.
Also, as for defrosting in the fridge, is there a standard? Such as one day in fridge for every 3 lbs?
As for vacuum sealing, are chamber vacuums generally considered better?