Thanks all. I love Cool, Calm, Collected - it's only a suburb away from where I live... their prices are normally $$$, but they have beautiful stuff. I actually already have that West Elm light fitting in my stair case! (How embarrassing) - I love it (and they actually have it in brass in the USA but not here). Whoever suggested light in the box, thanks, I don't think I've seen that site before. I quite like this one from there: http://www.lightinthebox.com/american-creative-personality-living-room-dining-room-villa-art-pendant_p4587353.html?pos=ultimately_buy_2&prm=1.3.5.0 The search will continue! And I will still curse some of those US website for their beauties :P

Contact the designer https://www.houzz.com.au/pro/studiokate/studio-kate

It's not a must do. I think that the current sconce is a little too ornate/federation style for your lovely house. (Is it thirties/forties era?). Noone else is going to much notice it though, it's black, not overly large and definitely not offensive. So if you hate it, then it's probably worth doing, otherwise I'd leave it. The alternatives you picked out would definitely be more true to your house. Maybe no. 3?

I think both types of bedside lighting have their merits. It also depends on what the bedside lighting is used for. Is it solely for a soft beroom light, or is it also for reading? Does it need to be directional? I really like wall lights/sconces. For beautiful Australian handmade sconces take a look at Marz Designs and Studio Enti. I have just installed sconces and pendants from both of these lighting designers in my own newly renovated home and am really happy with them. Good luck on your building journey.