Thank you everyone! Lockman Renovations, we had such a dilemma with the flooring. Originally it was tile (pink) with a concrete slab below. We couldn't match the timber flooring to flow into the kitchen, so we had to think of an alternative. This is the only thing I could come up with. It's ok, I like it :))

Hi Lila The waste pipe can still work with the L shape but if you are concerned, switch the sink and BBQ locations. That way the BBQ fumes will be further from the house too. Access to the back yard is always a consideration but I wouldn't let it rule your overall design as there are always ways around it. I had a mini bobcat come through my house to dig the pool in the back yard when I lived in Brisbane!!! A sail maker or equestrian sewer could easily make a good cover for the bench unit and I've seen it work on several occasions, but I would save up for the pergola to the side of the house which without any issues with the neighbour, could go to within 1.1m of the boundary or just as I drew it. Good luck with the decision making and enjoy your alfresco lifestyle.

Again, without dimensions, land size, location and construction data, it's hard to make helpful comments, Harman, but do you really need a dining room and family room as well as living room and rumpus? I think it might be worth considering oklouise's suggestion to convert the dining room to a laundry and pantry. Perhaps in doing so, you could rearrange the kitchen so that it has direct access to the patio (I think U-shape kitchens are somewhat dated and out of favour. I demolished mine despite it being quite new and in perfect condition, because I wanted free traffic flow from the kitchen to the outdoor living area. I hated being trapped behind the bar of the U while others were partying outside, and having to walk in circles to get from the sink or cooker to the party area.) The U shape, in your case, also means you walk in circles from the kitchen to dining room or family room. I'm not the design expert here. Oklouise, Kate and Siriuskey are among those holding that title! They made brilliant suggestions for rearranging my kitchen and I have ended up with a fabulous open-plan kitchen with servery to BBQ area on one side and direct access to the veranda on the other, plus a fantastic scullery and pantry (what used to be wasted space in a store room and hall) and a much larger and more workable laundry that is no longer a traffic thoroughfare. I really think you'd find it worthwhile to post a floor plan with dimensions; location, block size and orientation information, and some data about the construction (especially whether slab floor or timber with access under). You might be pleasantly surprised at the alternate layout suggestions some here would be able to offer. I'm sure you are aware that the kitchen is the focal point for home buyers. Nothing boosts a home's resale value more than a great kitchen - and these days most families seem to want a walk-in pantry, or at least a large dedicated pantry cupboard. So while converting the bathroom and laundry will boost value substantially, I would definitely consider what you might be able to do with the kitchen (subject to budget constraints of course) and think carefully about ensuring there is a functional laundry, conveniently located. Postscript: Check with council about development requirements. We discovered that a roof extension of less than 10 sq m is allowed in our area without approval - just signed off by a certifier. A laundry extension on the left side of the rumpus room might be easier than you think.

By your pictures you have chosen lounge settings. Is this your preference for this area, or would you be using space for actual dining and entertaining. I find that low lounges like the ones shown are not ideal for eating meals. You end up with a plate on your lap.