Ebb, I believe Capt'n K. indicated the circle was for the stove. Another nice idea, BTW, the vent the heat.
How about a simple support post for the mast ala the Commanders? Do away with the bulkhead entirely and have the entrance to the v-berth to one side and a bulkhead to the other?
On another note: imagine Steve's Sirocco mini-settee as a pull out convertable athwartship bunk. Seems like it'd be cozy. Without the wet locker there, it could be a double easily - perhaps not long enought for the likes of Ebb, however. Still room aft for galley, pilot berth, and stowage. Man, did Steve do a nice job on his boat!