Thanks for this suggestion. I've just had a look at a photo of a fence painted in this product and it looks great. ... It's been almost three years since we posted our original question on this site and we still haven't painted the fence! Some parts of the fence have turned grey, as they are exposed to more sun, but overall I do think a dark charcoal finish would be more attractive. :)

Hi Deanne, When you say you are doing the kitchen, does that mean you have to do the planning (design) and specifying of it also? I would have thought Storybook supplied a home with the (kitchen) plans included? If not, your builder will be able to guide you, however here are a couple of tips... 1. Choose your appliances early AND STICK WITH THEM. Often individual appliances have specific needs outside of standard eg power requirement (over 10amps), rangehood ducting direction and type, clearances to overhead cupboards, water to fridge etc. 2. Using the appliances, work out the layout (design) of the kitchen and where you want the cooking, cleaning, fridge etc. From there you need to work out power point locations for all appliances (many people forget the microwave) plus the everyday items like phone chargers, toaster, kettle etc. 3. Go to kitchen display showrooms such as Laminex. They have completed kitchens on display where you can understand the difference between a waterfall end (benchtop style), a shaker profile door (Hampton's style cabinet front) and play around with colours and finishes. 4. Put it all together in detail and you have created a specification! Re finding a builder, I agree with the above. Get a couple of names from Storybook as you don't need beginner mistakes, and go with the builder you guys are COMFORTABLE with. Price is only part of the journey. Good luck with the build.

Julie I love that tan lounge. The only reason I’m thinking of changing my sofa is because we are thinking of putting a mirror tv where the mirror is and starting to use it as a nice family room. The current sofa isn’t that comfortable. So a new sofa is on the cards! Now you know I want to start with a blank canvas do you think I should introduce the tan leather or get a fabric grey sofa instead? And does the sofa colour affect the final colour of dining chairs?? Thanks so much for your advice!!

I would give the firpelace a good clean and get rid of the decades of dirt that has been built-up before making a decision. It has lots of character and is a real centrepiece to the room, however it does seem to dominate the room. This is due to the stark contrast of the empty, white walls, and the lack of furniture and window coverings. I wouldn't rush into making a decision until you have at least cleaned it up and considered some more vibrant paint options than Landlord White. Have a look at some of the dirtier shades of Millenial Pink, such as Cuticle Pink from Dulux for the wall behind the fireplace as this will tie in well with the existing mortar and soften the contrast bewteen brickwork and wall. https://www.dulux.com.au/colour/colour-trends/2018/escapade The room is really a blank canvas and if you use the fireplace as a starting point then you could end up with something really glorious. I think you will regret trying to conceal the fireplace under render, paint or plasterboard as it will destroy most of the character. There is nothing wrong with the brickwork and it is appropriate for the style of the building. A better solution for the doors would be to rehinge them so that they open inwards into the room, which will be cheaper, and more approporiate for the original style. You have an elegant, period room bursting with potential and just waiting to be appreciated and loved for what it is, and not modernised for the sake of transient fashion. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls