Think about a combination of any three of timber, steel, stone and render. main body exterior if rendered needs warmth added with timber, it softens the facade and is an ever changing aesthetic. It's extremely versatile and can be installed in a multitude of ways, to accentuate or compliment your exterior. By the looks of your image, your home is elongated, so to counter balance that proportion I would consider vertical timber battening perhaps to your garage and surrounding area to create an invisible door, making the door apparently invisible being that the slats blend into the entire elevation. Iwould then tie in timber details such as wi does or entry decking for a cohesive look. Consider enhancing architectural elements by playing with scale and application, for example, if you have a long, flat faced design, consider highlighting windows by framing them with bulk framing, or inset the deeper into your framework so they have a nice shadow line or deep set sill. Allow your architecture to extend beyond the build, so in porches, verandas or even screening walls, slats or balustrades, it will look more considered and make the entire design a standout. Hope it helps. ML DESIGN

I agree with the three statements above. My initial thoughts were that your kitchen and the example you provided as an alternative idea - is that they are no way alike and I do not think you could ever turn your old kitchen into the new. I also couldn't believe there was a mirror above the oven in the newer kitchen. Unless they are using this for reflective light - what are they thinking? Back to your kitchen - my first thought was ..... the pictures of the chef all around the top of the cupboards have to go. I would also try to remove the cupboards above the stove to add height to that space, as it currently looks like you would have to duck down every time you wish to cook and height automatically adds the felling of spaciousness. You could then add a feature wall of tiles / glass if you wished to (without a mirror). Normally I would never recommend someone paint lovely wood but in this case maybe a lovely fresh white finish may help because your kitchen appears (based on the photo) to be dark (natural light wise) and white is amazing for adding light and freshness. As we can not see the rest of the space and storage maybe at a premium I can not recommend anything else except to perhaps consider replacing the under cupboard lighting with bright mini LED lights (if the lighting is required). Remember the term ..... less is more. Good Luck.

Hi Siriuskey, They are timber looking tiles - we absolutely love them. We are considering the same for the new place but potentially herringbone/parquetry arrangement. Much more expensive vs. laminate but easier to clean and no concern in relation to water...

I’ve received different and conflicting advice. All of which seems valid. Lay first cause you may want to change kitchen layout. Guys....I have had my existing kitchen 20 years and it was here when we arrived. Add another 15 years. I’m in my 50’s...highly unlikely I will be changing layout. I’m choosing floating boards because I wanted to soften the otherwise very modern kitchen that I’m getting. Floating instead of actual boards because of $$. I don’t want to put tiles or concrete in case of a possible plumbing mishap. Positive vibes. Thanks to all for your advice.