We have raked ceilings in our new split level extension that follows the fall of the land (and in the rooms that were part of the skillion sections of the old cottage) and I love the sense of space they give and also the fact that the inside reflects what is happening on the outside of the house. We have used ceiling boards (painted white – I didn't want to feel like I was living in a cigar box) both in the old cottage and in the new section and they certainly add an enormous amount of visual interest to the rooms as well. However, I endorse the comments about the added trickiness of light fittings. Pendants with rods are out and pay particular attention to the little rose/canopy thingies that connect pendants to the ceiling – make sure that they sit flush with the ceiling and don't have weird unsightly bits that you can suddenly see because of the angled ceiling. We have successfully used LED downlights with a recessed diffuser and dimmer switches to make sure there is no glare but if the raked angle isn't too extreme they are a definite possibility.

I agree with your concern. We live in Wooloowin and have seen so many colonials lifted way too high, They have been ruined. I much prefer it when the old house is left low and extend out the back. I really love mixing new with the old. Space permitting, not sure that an extension would cost that much more than lifting when you factor in all the costs.

Yes, I would go to the website for "Steel Shower Screens Australia" and complete a quote request http://www.steelshowerscreens.com.au/ They do some beautiful shower screens with a fine steel frame, however they are not cheap. Best of luck Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

We are going to have a walkthrough with our electrician before we buy ceiling fans, but I am interested in the forum’s views. Plan pics attached, we have a gas log heater for the open plan living/dining area. We want the fans to send the warm air back down.... I know I need to be able to change the direction from the remote, however do we put them as close to the ceiling where the hottest air might be, or have them on longer rods. The ceiling is also raked, so working out what the angle of the roof is in the middle of the room will make a difference too I guess? Thanks in advance