Thank you we are looking forward to it :-) I have already done a whole floor plan for the renovations and additions and I have done elevations for the kitchen, which have already had a few changes due to seeing something on Houzz and thinking hmmmm that would work better etc. I will also run the drawings past an architect just to make sure there isn't a better way of doing things. Also we will live in the house as is for quite some time before starting the renovations which will give us a feel for how things should be. Very much appreciate all the advice. Regards Lynda

I think your benchtop material choice really depends on how both you and your husband live and what level of natural wear you are comfortable with showing. Natural wood benchtops to me are very similar to natural stone or stainless steel. The surfaces will naturally age and show use, scratches and imperfections much more than say a caesarstone if it's a high use area but some people love that look and it goes well with an industrial or natural style. My wife and I thought long and hard about it but realised we want the benchtop to look as new and clean each time as possible so opted back for caeserstone (Ocean Foam) which hid small stains and dust :)

depending on the size of the existing vanity it should be possible to have a similar new vanity or a custom unit made to replace the original but a chat with a plumber should be arranged to recommend suitable options and plan a schedule to remove the old and install the new, including any necessary waterproofing or tile repairs..btw careful removal could allow the original sink, taps and even the counter to be saved and recycled into a new vanity that matches the bathroom perfectly with the added option of being able to add different doors or drawers to the cabinet

With the temperature dropping, we tend to spend more time in the warmth of a hot shower, so now is the perfect time to make our bathrooms look and feel more luxurious! We’ve got some great ways to create a luxurious bathroom to get you through those colder months You’ve probably heard it a thousand times before, but any sort of re-styling can instantly change the look and feel of any space. And one of the most visible spaces in your bathroom is the vanity, so try starting there. Remove everything from your vanity countertop and think about how you want the room to feel. If you want to add a touch of luxury, the first thing you could try doing is updating things like the handwash dispenser, soap dish, and toothbrush holder. By simply updating these items, you will notice the difference immediately. Nothing screams luxurious bathroom, like flowers! We think adding something like a small fresh or dried floral arrangement, immediately makes you feel like you’ve walked into a magazine shoot. Then, just amp it up with a candle in a beautiful vessel and maybe a soft, textured hand towel or face washer to complete the look! Upgrade Your Basin & Bench Mounted Tapware You may not realise, but upgrading your bathroom basin and basin mixer, is also one of the quickest ways to change the entire feel of your bathroom. If they are looking a bit tired or dated, you might be surprised at how much variety is now available when it comes to basins and tapware! While you may require the help of a licensed plumber, chances are that this simple upgrade will give you the best bang for buck when it comes to adding some luxury to your existing space. Try and choose something that ties in well with the existing bathroom, but also try and bring in that luxurious bathroom feel with something that will elevate the space, and give you a great base to add in your other accessories and styling pieces.