The most important thing for you to do is get a GOOD builder and SMART architect that'll help you drive your reno dollar further. The architect will come up with brilliant ideas that make what you've got work smarter for you and a good builder -well, they're just worth their weight in gold! They'll both allow you to be the client which is the most important role for you to take on. The builder will work out the order of trades so that your reno takes the least amount of time. They'll also be able to speak to trades in a professional way to get you exactly what you want. I'd really suggest that you go to an architect to get your design plans firmed up - particulary if you're doing any extensions and find out what walls are load bearing. I'd also strongly suggest in the most enthusiastic terms possible - do your home work - have all your plans and materials, appliances etc done BEFORE you even take down a door - changes during the process will cost you big money (not to mention irritate your building team).

chookchook2 - we have linoleum in our kitchen. 10 years on, still looks great, easy to clean, forgiving underfoot and dropped items don't always break :) Love it so much, we will be using it throughout our new beach house (except bathrooms). Try searching Forbo Marmoleum - the colours alone are eye candy, and you may find a link to a state rep.

Changes cost an absolute bomb so consider your modifications carefully Joy. Looking at both plans you've not altered the design much rather you've moved rooms around whilst trying to retain the original content. Some rooms appear less usable as a result. The #2/bed/study is one, seems too small, even the guest bed seems smaller and it didn't appear large to begin with. Without room dimensions it's a bit tougher to make comments however. I wonder why you made the guest bathroom a powder room given the location is such that it won't be used as frequently as the bathroom off the main living area? Sure put the doorway into the guest room so the bathroom can service the bed/study too but don't lose the shower up there. Nothing worse for guests than having to pad through the main living area in their pj's to the shower or worse with a towel wrapped around their middles on the return trip to get dressed. It's enough to put some off their cornflakes! I'd seriously rethink some of those changes Joy they will cost you a lot with little gain methinks. I'm sorry to sour the mood I know it's an exciting time but I'd hate to see you make expensive and possibly unnecessary decisions.

Yeah...ended up going with door number 1 :) Glass is covered up still with green tape cause the painters r painting walls atm, so this is it so far........