I think you could get the telly put over the fireplace. Might need a mantle to deflect radiant heat, not sure. But on the cables and power, I imagine they can get that sorted. Im guessing there is a wall behind you when you took the photos. I agree that a low corner modular sofa would look great. Just don't get it so long that it is up against the fireplace wall. Placed into that corner of end and piano walls . Then pop your cute chair where the sofa is now. Large ( big enough for the sofa front legs sit on it, I'm guessing 2x3m or even 3x4m) patterned rug to define the area. Can you move the piano to another room or against the computer area wall? Can you make the small windowed room the homework hub? Imagine a long bench against the window ( Ikea do a good cheap range that you make to fit your space). Ensuring the computers are in line of sight from the kitchen(?). Pull out the table to give it more space around it. Or flip it to run the other direction. Hard to tell from the pics the dimensions. Paint a lighter shade as mentioned before. A sketch of your floorplan would be really helpful :)

Miranda You appear to be making all the right choices in life. I will be a little bit presumptuous by offering some advice on helping you to raise your child in touch with nature in this age full of all the electronic lures that keep the kids indoors. or, when outdoors, glued to a small screen, rather than the glory that surrounds them. I am writing a book about landscape architecture and have a section regarding the importance of embracing nature in the preschool years. - which I would like to forward that section to you. However, my computer skills are limited to email and US Mail. I don't even know how to attach a picture to the text. If you would like to receive this draft from my future book, send me your email or postal address, and I'll get it right off to you. My email is cascio.offsite@gmail.com Good luck with your new challenges and opportunities. Joe Cascio

Hi there! How did you go with this? If you're still looking, you can search for professionals in 'Find Pros' on Houzz :)

The walls could be Gyrocked, they would probably need to be on 'furring channels' (or similar) to allow a gap between block and plasterboard with some form of sislation/vapour barrier or insulation. This is similar to what is done in commercial building construction like warehouse's. Call your local 'Gyprock' sales centre as they will know the full story. A insulation company such as 'Fletcher Insulation' may also have approved systems that are in compliance with the building codes. There are possibly other insulation products available that could be directly adhered to the masonry surface but I don't know of any off the top of my head....