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

Though I don't know for certain, I think the cotton/linen shades are removable. I wasn't able to determine this by my searches. This could easily be confirmed by making an enquiry to supplier before purchase. Alternatively, a handmade one could be made removable by making shade slightly larger than frame and making ties.

This is an Australian site, we work in centimetres. So 30" is 66cm,and 36" is 90cm. Assuming the oven is on the 18ft side, then I would definitely go 36". Do you get a 24" oven or 60cm oven where you are? You could install two 24" ovens. Then you only need to heat up a small oven for everyday use, and you have the option to run both ovens when cooking for a crowd. All the best.

Your needs for your home should ultimately drive the decisions....it's tricky jumping in and out on these things, particular after a design process has already occurred, as the projects developed as a result of decisions over various aspects and prioritising of the various goals. Function should drive the decisions one way or the other - THEN we work out how to make it aesthetically/spatially balanced one way or the other..........whatever you do you need to have solid reasoning and justification for all decisions.............. regarding your carport structure, you may well come to the confident conclusion that open private outdoor space/landscaping is a better use of that area for your and your property and that's the best option for you. Be careful not to get confused by differing advice here and whilst all ideas can be valid, the risk is losing your bearing with your own goals. I could argue both sides, a real estate agent may say you're diminishing market value, but you as the owner may prefer a larger rear yard. Not right or wrong, just different priorities and perspectives...... Typically when it comes to this stuff, our instincts are the best compass........but be sure you have taken time to think through options and have the right info.....after years of doing this I can say instinct never fails, but less then ideal outcomes can occur by not trusting your gut Cheers PD