The visual artist needs the window - so position easel? or other working items where the keyboards currently are . . . and start working from there. The blue sofa cushions - maybe hang them against the walls (they could function as pinboards?) - but I think you need something to deaden the sound - or your neighbours may hate you. Rugs on the floor and the thickest drapes you can afford (or improvise with blankets) for the window. Hmmm . . . maybe artist towards the right-handside (door-side) of the window - trestles in L shape along the long wall, and a bit of the window to make 2 desks - and musician's stuff occupying the wall adjacent to the door and into the centre of the room? Everyone gets a shelf each in the cupboard . . . and a dedicated space in the room?

Thanks team. Here's another idea - what about white wooden blinds? I actually like having no coverings on the windows for most of the time. eg. We have great views west and east, so the doors/windows are normally open 6 months of the year. They still need to be dressed, but with something that doesn't hinder the view. They could be up for most of the summer, and only let down if I need to keep some heat out or in winter to keep the cold out. I'm concerned they would be too heavy to operate being most of my window/door widths are 240cm. I've never worked with a consultant before... should I get someone to come in and give me a professional opinion?

Hate vertical blinds too! So much so put curtains on my sliding doors. On my casement windows have holland or cellular blinds as easy to pull up to open window I suggest block out blinds which can perhaps be made big enough to cover all or at least half windows so gives you flexibility re light control if separate controls without having too many separate blinds

Thank you everyone. Decoro, I am afraid I am in Regional Vic., but thank you for the offer. At this stage I have decided to go with sheers but not right to the ceiling - I am going to try them hung from about 70cm above the frame, which is almost level to the ceiling over the kitchen. That way, they are still higher than the window itself, but still leaves me with the 'sky' views through the clerestory windows. The other windows will have double rollers, in a dark, charcoal colour for both the sheer and the block out. Again hoping that will look OK, as most people go for lighter colours (ie white) but all of the walls are Dulux Whisper white, and the window frames are black. When the blinds are down at night, I didn't want to be surrounded by white. Fingers crossed I've made the right decision.