I'd love to see the end result!!

It looks as if the area is in permanent shadow, but even if it's not, I would opt for a sandstone/pale honey colour. Something that reflects the light and also gives warmth to an otherwise very cool area. A couple of planters would also look good - even if you have to opt for faux plants in a sunless area!

Hi, yes plaster and render/cement on frames is an unavoidable side effect of wet trades. We have tried covering them, installing them without glazing, everything possible but you still get a little bit. Just rub them back. re gapping the skirting, it is usually done by either the painter or the chippie, depending on the cause and the individual trades. as a heads up for the painting throughout, use a sealer undercoat first on the walls,ceiling and timber. It helps coverage and gives a proper adhesion for the paint. If you are doing the ceilings use a 22mm nap. It will reduce roller lines and again gives a better coverage. rub it ALL back between coats, not just the patches. You can get sanding pads on poles and a bit of elbow grease will make a huge difference to the finish, particularly on the timber. If you want to really see how your patching is going, grab a 500w hand head lamp and shine it across the walls up close and you will be able to see everything. cheers

I agree with Jabinika that it doesn't look great just now. However if storage is an issue its a wasted space, and should be put to work. It looks as though many things are not yet finished. With lots of light paintwork and some aesthetically pleasing storage boxes, I feel it will do well. It would be good to see a pic of it complete.