Go to a building design draftsman. They have an amazing ability to see things differently to us mortals. Will do smaller jobs without the extra cost of an architect. Some savvy interior designers can also do that. Make sure you find someone with a good reputation for design skills

We're doing the same, 2 sets. Want wood but have been told they "may" warp, even though under a covered alfresco. Don't have a firm cost yet but indication from builder is $10-15k more than powder coated aluminium. Total width of each set is 3250 divided into 3 doors, with stacking security screens. Don't have a price for the aluminium ones yet to compare but +$10-15k has probably helped with the decision. Have bifolds at current house but will be going for stackers at the reno house because they can have the stacking security screens, whereas bifolds are difficult to security screen, you can flyscreen but it's quite a flimsy arrangement.

It sounds about right, if not quite reasonable. Flagfall allowance for painting component I put on moderate sized renos is $35K+GST. For a large new custom residence with various materials we're talking $50K+. 10 years ago you we used to talk about ballpark 10k inside 10K outside but it's moved well on&up like everything.. Also painters now understand how much value and the difference painting injects into a property. Think about the difference if you're selling a house like yours on the perception of a potential buyer. For the purpose of the conversation, if you try and sell a "tired" property for say ballpark $X, you might eventually concede/accept and offer for less than $X. Alternatively if you invest in painting (& other stuff like landscaping and strategic updates) you may well end up well beyond $X + improvements..... I digress, back to the painting topic, as Retro said you're paying for prep and application. It's predominantly a labour expense (the cost of the paint is virtually irrelevant in the whole scheme of things and cost of paint of certain quality is a whole other topic of conversation where false economy runs rife) and minimal "technical" skill from the application aspect, but the skill is in the experience of executing proper treatment of various surfaces and so the finish is as high quality and as long lasting as possible. You could probably get a "cheaper" quote, but likely the end results may not last as long and I bet then you'll then be paying again down the line with a higher quality/cost option after being disappointed with the results of going with a lower cost option...... Being recommended by 3 separate people says a lot about this option for you. Rather than "question" the quote, perhaps go back to them and get them to explain it, just so you understand what's involved with the job, and so you don't feel like you're paying more than what's reasonable - after that conversation you may have a different opinion of it! Best of luck! Cheers PD :)

Can you post any more photos including the staircase, and how the room next to the staircase is accessed interesting extension not following in the traditional manner of the house, Always follow KISS, keep it simple S for the best result. You could add a traditional front door in black but I don't think it necessary as from what I can see in the photo is the entrance and door already have a lot of character. The lovely Picket will look less fussy if done in one colour quoting Taking the new build/old build divide quite literally, the existing cottage has been redefined as a crisp white entity. In a street of Heritage vernacular, where every architectural shift is picked out in a nuanced tone, this is a drastic departure in itself. Add to this the decision to present the new addition in solid black, and the radical nature of the build becomes apparent (Dulux low sheen black and Lexington white). http://www.wrightsonstewart.com.au/wilston-project