Hi Fiona. Those boards were replaced after initial build (after installing new wider slider), so that’s why they were lighter. It was weathered and needing a clean and recoil there. I took cutek’s (expensive)advice and started with quik clean (loosens dirt which was evidently incorporated into my layers of oil), then followed with pro clean (timber brightener). I scrubbed my butt off and was still not happy with the result. It just didn’t evenly clean it up, and I used fairly concentrated doses, and got down on my knees to scrub, not just a brush on a long stick. I oiled with cutek extreme (instead of cd50). Some more pics, after scrubbing then after oiling (still dark). I did redo my handrail in johnstones deck oil, and it appears to be lasting well, no peeling... but I’m still a bit cautious about risking my deck with this finish (water based over oil). I think I’d prefer dirty weather deck than a peeling finish. Next house I’m only having timber deck if it’s entirely undercover!! Do you have a similar dilemma?

Go with your gut Tracy..... it is a big investment but I have found that if it makes you smile every time you walk into your kitchen you'll never regret it!!!! I've recently moved into a smaller downsized home with my 3rd black kitchen, with drawers, no cupboards, except for the pantry which we use as the crockery and wine glasses stash. Mine is matt but no handles = no hip bangers! I chose to use snow white stone bench tops, the walls are painted natural white while the floors are pale oak hybrid vinyl.

I'd start saving some inspo pics here on Houzz so you can see the common threads of what you like. Then I'd pay a few hundred dollars to have a design consultation. In your area you will have a range of choices.

gorgeous pictures. thank you all for your comments. painting is still underway. turned out to be a bigger job than any expected. but its looking good. very white. i have never lived in a white house! i will post pictures when its finished. since you hall have been so helpful though i am going to keep asking your opinion if thats ok. im trying to update. eventually we will renoved kitchen and bathrooms and new carpets. but for now just trying to go slow. atm door all have gold handles...keep them / update? and i have taken the handles off the linen cupboards and wardrobes. i bought 300mm graphite but not sure. any hints? https://www.kethy.com.au/product/pm2810