We used spotted gum for our decking and love it! We got it for $4.25 linear metre from Masters (any lengths that were inferior they were happy to replace). Our deck was built next to our near-white pavers so merbau was out of the question due to its leaching (plus we also were wanting an eco-friendly local hardwood if possible).

Do you regularly dine at the dining table? If you more frequently eat in front of the TV, then I would consider using the "media room" space as the "formal" dining area and including generous and comfortable seating in the living/dining space to create a spacious, free-flowing lounging area. That would ensure that there is plenty of room for movement around the kitchen and to the balcony. The location of the TV would probably depend upon the antenna and power points, but unless you have an awesome view off the balcony, it seems like the back of the sofa/s would need be to the balcony so that they face the TV. With only two bedrooms, I'm not sure that two separate "living" rooms are required. As an alternative, if you really don't use a dining table (or if you would prefer to have a nice outdoor dining setting on the large balcony), then I would consider using the media room space as a study/library. It could be somewhere for a combination desk/console table (for your keys, mail, etc) and bookcases or other storage requirements. I would consider how you use your current living space, including how you entertain. I would also think about just moving in with the bare minimum of furniture and slowly furnishing the apartment once you have a better idea of the space, how you move about it and how you want to live in it on a day to day basis. Good luck.

Hi sue gary ross Lovely natural relaxed choices. Go with that thought and use sea colours- aqua, mid blue, pale green and navy. Pop in some grey tones to ground the whole thing - that will connect with your new sofa. Add some metallic pieces for texture and bling. Have fun.

Without looking at the job I'd presume the reveals aren't the correct size. Can you post a picture or two, inside and out? I also would have used timber again rather than aluminium. Timber is still the first choice when it comes to windows, depending on the situation and circumstances.