PVC as an alternative to aluminum is as durable, infact some would say moreso. It has better insulative properties, and withstands temperature changes better, it has a great thermal rating and is used extensively throughout Europe, and now here for insulative windows and doors. They are quick to manufacture making them cost effective and quick to install, over time I have seen the sheen fade, but is restored once washed. Aluminum can do all of these things too, but unless they go through a powder coated process, their durability and finish is not as long lasting. However they have better colour options. PVC is white, and although is paintable, it is not a primed surface, so if it's white you want, then great, but if you have a tendency to change colour, I would stick with aluminum or timber. Stregthof PVC varies from thickness, it is a polymer and is formed with application tolerances in mind, meaning the strength required from balustrades or fencing sections are easily achieved in it's manufacture by the process it goes through. Connectors and jointing systems keep componentry flexible and sturdy. they have been used as our storm water conduits cor some time, and withstand constant submersion to water, and bearing weight. I would say that makes them durable and long lasting. I would be confident in this balustrade and by appearances, looks just as good.

I actually had a marble counter in a flat I lived in in Europe for a while. I knew nothing about maintenance so just treated it like any other hard surface, and it looked fine (and I wasn't the first person to live in that flat, I assure you). It's more common in Europe, and not so much trendy there as classic. But Europeans aren't quite as finicky as North Americans and Australians seem to be about flawless and unblemished finishes.

Hi Adelina, As a general rule, MOST porcelain tiles are 10mm thick and glue allowance is 3mm. Have the builder leave 13mm total height in the areas you will be using tiles. See link to some options of neutral coloured porcelain tiles all in the 10mm thickness. https://www.tilecloud.com.au/categories/material/2/Stone%20Look  Assuming the concreting is of good quality, the tiles will be stuck directly to the slab with no need for a screed. (only really required when the concreting is poor or you need to change heights) So that takes care of the downstairs. Bamboo flooring varies anywhere from 6mm all the way up to about 22mm so it really depends on which you choose upstairs. Hope that helps!

Suzie, hubby and I are just contemplating engineered spotted gum flooring throughout our in-progress new build. He wants matt, I want satin. We have gloss or semi-gloss throughout our current home and love the look but not how much scratches show up. We are struggling to see whole room/house matt finished spotted gum floors - and I'm wondering how you feel about yours? And what did you decide for kitchen? We have a 'lemon myrtle' cupboard door planned for upper cupbaords and white semi-gloss for lower cupboards and benchtops.