Thanks for the great thoughts asquithoatley and Damien. I especially like the suggestions that I add a bit of colour and texture with cushions and lamps. I really favour a natural and organic palette, but having largely achieved that, the room just didn't seem to 'pop' in quite the way I'd hoped. Asquithoatley - are you able to give me a source for the red lamp? I really like it. It is funny you mention knitted pillows, as I just took up knitting for the first time in years and I did some for upstairs. They look really good. Maybe I'll get the knitting needles out again! And I'll start looking around at coffee tables. I think you are right. Thanks again to both of you. Isn't this site fantastic?

@hummerd, Yes I believe you about the skylight but we have a truss roof design, which puts the room ceilings some 3m away from the actual roof and so a skylight that actually opens can't be installed in this bedroom or anwhere else in the home unles we had a cathedral ceiling, otherwise it would have been a simple procedure. Disapointed that we can't use this method but it's not to be!! A tube skylight is our only other option but we were wanting one that allows you to open and close an internal vent situated on the ceiling, as well as on the roof, our daughter has one like this but they aren't made anymore. It seems they are now only vented on the roof either permanantly or with a motor that allows you to manipulate the amount the vent is open. Price has now jumped from a standard $200 to at least $600+ and rising but none of these tube skylights have an ajustable vent in the ceiling which we would prefer. We will have to keep looking and thanks for your thoughts. Cheers, Barbara

Hi Sally, nice plan, I like the tucked away but easily accessible laundry and butlers pantry. Where are you located? We have a team of kitchen/ interior designers and work closely with kitchen suppliers and builders that could manage your project for you. If you are interested in getting your kitchen areas highly specified, drop us a line on our contact us page http://www.bluetea.com.au/contact/

Hi May I ask why you want to use rammed earth? There are other more energy efficient materials around particularly when you want to build two storey. The answer to your question as to who to use will be heavily influenced by what materials you choose. Building in alternative materials usually requires changes in methods regarding eg footing/concrete details, reinforcement (engineering) prelays and finishes. Talking with builders / architects experienced in the method eg rammed earth early will both help you avoid mistakes / late changes to accommodate materials and different requirements.... I would start by talking with builders that have built in the method you like. You will soon find out if it is what you want. A simple web search will locate rammed earth builders who are experienced in double storey homes. I know of one in QLD. Cheers