I like the blue touches already in the room, which reflect the brickwork. Agree with lots of creams/ neutrals, just adding some blue in cushions, artwork. Maybe a bluish/cream rug, with a subtle pattern, not a solid color. Also I think the lights are a little lost. The high ceilings could take some quite large shades, maybe drums. And I agree that the central column could be painted to become the focal point as stated. Either white or quite a dark grey/ blue, ( it might darken up things too much, but it's only paint, can be changed). It might be sinful but I think I would replace it with plaster, then paint it. Finally maybe a dash of 60s burnt orange or mustard if you want to want to keep the retro theme.

I love that look too - it's bright, clean and classic without being stark. Think about a warm white as it'll pick up warmth of Creme Brulee caesarstone. Perhaps look at Dulux Antique White. Remember too if there's a colour that matches your caesarstone and you like it you can do it in half or quarter strength so that it tones but isnt the same. If you can only get small paint chip samples grab a bunch of them and tape them together and put them in the space your cabinets will be with a sample of the caesarstone - paint colours change depending upon light. Good luck.

What a great looking sink!

your dilemma is difficult to understand without more information and would be so much easier if we had the original whole house plan with dimensions and showing front and back entry, and views, size and position of prop0sed pool and all existing windows and doors, any walls doors or windows that can't be changed and direction of north...as well as any special requests for the kitchen