I have been overwhelmed by everyone's positive comments and thank you as it was a risk that truely paid off. If you are looking at pulling out solid timber doors to replace with a man made product it would be worth looking into keeping what you already have. The photos here in don't do the work as much justice as real life, and I can go on about it as I truely believe it's worth it. As time goes on I'm loving it more and more. Good luck with your renovation ventures. It's good fun.

U-shaped kitchen in the house we bought had corner drawers in one corner and a blind (useless) corner on the other side. We got rid of both corners. The kitchen is now a straight line and an island, open at both ends, with a third bench with drawers under along the window wall. No corners, and no obstacles to block traffic between the kitchen, butler's pantry and the veranda where we eat most of our meals. Much more practical. I hated being trapped in the U-shaped kitchen and having to walk in big circles around the bench to get out to the dining areas.

Depending upon your budgtet - you could go for pewter - it develops/has a patina that darkens (though if you get it unsealed your up for polishing). or custom made wrought iron handles with softer finish - perhaps look at http://www.uniquewroughtiron.com.au/wroughtiron.html who have a number of finishes.

Hi Colleen. If you don't like Shaker style, I'd focus on contemporary but understated, as opposed to modern cabinets. Think matt or satin finish, rather than gloss for cabinets. You don't necessarily need handles, but if you do keep them architectural and simple. For example, a D shape handle in stainless steel as opposed to anything fancy. Finally, I'd avoid doing a glass splash back in this architectural situation. This is where you can inject personality. I know subway tiles have been overdone, but you can still include slightly different patterns, such as herringbone or running them vertically rather than horizontally. Or if you prefer a bit of colour, go for something like a 100x100 hand-made tile in a colour you like (or something that looks hand-made). While these tiles are more expensive, you've got a relatively small amount to purchase, and this can make all the difference. I hope that helps, best wishes with everything.