Yes, I agree they are fairly narrow and I think practicality must trump original design in this regard. You can still remain true to the era, and simply widening the steps to flush with width of verandah will only improve upon the original design. I believe it will also future-proof the steps as I can imagine as people age, they sometimes require the firm arm of someone else to assist them safely up and down the stairs. I have to agree with Mel about the letterbox. IF you are set on mixing styles, then perhaps use the same timber you used for the letterbox to face facade (street facing) of new steps.

Hi helke, how different we all are, I think your door is fabulous, by adding clear glass to the side, you will look at your door in a new light , to have such a unique door, you are very lucky. Also by adding decking and landscaping you will love the contrast the render will give to the overall look,you will love how the different textures will blend together to give a beautiful look, but we are all different and you should do what makes you happy every time you walk up your garden path to your home.

Hi Nancy, Just thought I'd offer a few thoughts for you to consider. How much you change depends on your overall budget and how much of the house needs updating. My guess is that you wont be changing the window frames so why don't you include this colour in the overall colour sceme? I agree that the joinery looks to be of really good quality and it would be a real shame to dispose of them. I fear if you update the cabinets with a new finish, the granite will let down the overall updating. While these images may not be the right tone or style, I would suggest considering green cabinets and a light or grey bench top. The green on the cabinets could be paint or 'whitewash' if you want the Hamptons vibe. You could also mix and match and have green lowers with white high level cabinets and look at a 'hand made' look wall tile. Good luck, C.

So you want to install two barn doors, one upstairs and one with the fretwork opening. Regarding the upstairs door….how wide do you want the barn door. The full width of the upstairs landing or just the width of stairs. Either way you will need to build a full structure to hold the weight of the door. Also, for safety, I would not put the door right at the steps, it should go back in line with the door on the right. Therefore there is still a landing between door and stairs. You could also look at installing a cavity slider door. If you install a door, the natural light into that upstairs may be lost.