I would suggest playing around with your zones, move them without hesitation then sit in each space and rule them out or in as you go. Fresh eyes and all that. I would move your dining to your current lounge, the lounge int that alcove where your study is, you window is higher in here and will accommodate that smart fabric sofa with the tv cabinet on the opposite wall, the armchair will fill the corner really well with a smart floor lamp to accentuate the window and views by night, it will easily become a cool place to retreat. Lounges are also nicer when they have some sense of detachment from the busy work zones ie kitchens and hallways. Your study can be modernized and positioned where your current dining table is, because it's small, and would be an afterthought as you walk right past it from the corridor entering this space. Think stunning bookshelves. Some retro looks have floor to ceiling open backed shelves that could create a hall divider when coming in, so the kitchen is a little more separated, but also, the wall could have some smart practical joinery built here. I would put a desk along the short wall with a designer chair, maybe an upholstered one, a featherston or eames. This creative space could really sharpen the overall look in here, there are some amazing looking workspaces to be inspired by, and the new lounge would feel a real getaway tucked into your corner. You simply go there to relax and Wong have people walking through or past you anymore. The dining room will be where it naturally floes towards, although I love your furniture, id consider some eames or tolix replica chairs with this table as well.

Hi Sarah, You can go for alternative stone cladding from Boral called Cultured Stone. They are great products and can be installed by most stone masons on brick or rendered walls. If you're in WA, you can find out more by calling us on 13 15 40 or visiting http://www.midlandbrick.com.au/cultured-stone.asp However, if you're in the East Coast, you can check out Which product is available in the state you live in: http://www.boral.com.au/productcatalogue/CategoryDirect_CTR.aspx?country=AUS&category=81 Below are examples of Cultured Stone cladding that's most similar to the photos you have attached: Boral Coral Stone - Fossil Reef Boral Cobblefield - Texas Cream Boral Country Ledgestone - White Oak Hope we at Midland Brick have been able to help you out Thanks!

I'd say there's not a lot you can do with the garage, overall height limits and ceiling height to garage perhaps? Limited info and unfamiliar with site, etc. so just really guessing here. The stairs however could be changed as could the balcony, etc. Can't see issues here why it can't be amended to suit your requirements. You never mentioned the issues with the designer but perhaps stay with them as redesigning through another may not be ideal either! Some won't touch another designer's work and will start from scratch. Give them another chance to explain why it is all done this way. Allow them the opportunity to amend it and depending on your council, use a SECTION 96 if possible. Council will soon let you know if they can accept it. Remember they've been submitted so I'd have to presume you were happy with them beforehand. Clients changing their mind or have difficulty making decisions happens regularly as its all quite new to them. I too have had clients that love the plan's, get submitted then decide that want to change something that has been there from the beginning.... Windows and doors are usually what my clients change. Frustrating for client and equally if not more so for the designer as it affects the whole plan set and documentation in many cases. I do know many designers will railroad their clients into decisions based on their own visions but this is never a good thing. It's a collaboration between client, designer, council, engineer, builder, etc. and sometimes a bit of compromise by all parties.

Thank you everyone, lots of shopping, many shops seen. I have pulled this look together. I am not sure about the heavy textured throw. Just walked in with it, thinking a white pot with a plant in the corner by the window. I wanted to find the beige colour in the blue cushion, a much darker colour than the plain one l found to the left of it. Take care everyone. Sue