Pictures might be useful. You also might take a look at these guys (haven't used them, but looked at their website when I was considering some of the same issues - so, this isn't a recommendation, just a suggestion of what you might want to investigate) http://homeofficemadeeasy.com.au

We got a custom made flat pack kitchen from a company in Queanbeyan, not sure of where you are. Much better quality, Australian made and you can get exactly the dimensions you want, which is important for a kitchen with so many corners. You might be better off holding on until you get a little bit more money together and put the kitchen in the existing living room and opening up the kitchen dining to the new kitchen for a better flow out to the backyard. The room looks lovely and well lit with high ceilings, paint it and change the handles now and don't miss the chance to do something a bit better later on. Does not solve the dishwasher question though. .....

you are super-patient!!! :) :) thank you :) I'm so sorry but I do actually have a couple MORE thoughts!! argh! there are just so many different options.... and this is a bit of an all consuming puzzle to try to solve. here they are: 1) study could become main bathroom - leaving new Bed 4 as per plan since it is bigger & a better size for guests. in this option, some area could be stolen from the study to boost ensuite size - even if it just made the ensuite 1 full metre. Ideally not requiring study window to change. 2) WC could potentially be separate either within this space OR at the back of the old kitchen (allowing for the remaining, longish hall wall to be shorter again) oklouise you may think some of these ideas are not very workable & I'd be so glad for your feedback & comment (and anyone else's comments as well), it's really so incredibly helpful - unbelievably helpful - to have everyone's input. i'd love recommendations on which ideas & options might work best for that balance between function & budget

I'm not here to argue, but an approved plan can be resubmitted as a variation for approval. The blind acceptance of an approval limits your creativity, and the clients ability to obtain the best possible solution. This problem requires thinking outside the box which is what we have offered. The client must decide if the process and cost of approval of a variation is worthwhile. They shouldn't live there wondering if only we had done this or done that due to a blind acceptance that once approved there can be no variations. Realistically everything that has been suggested should result in the need to seek an approval especially when changes to plumbing are considered. Erase what you are not happy with and redesign that space without the shackles of poor space planning. You don't have to like my suggestion but don't limit yourself either.