Hi Renae, thanks for using our photo in relation to the black and white cabinet work. I think that the black/white is certainly a time-less look, you will be able to add any colour with it as trends change. The client worked with a satin 2PAC on this job, we do not recommend a matt 2PAC as it will give a chalkboard appearance. Another point to note is that the black may show any chips easier while the paint is still curing, so be sure to get a pot of touch up paint for any small incidents. If you haven't already had a look at the full portfolio of this job, please do so. All of the cabinet work is black and white throughout the house.

By using a contrasting tile in your shower niche it will draw attention to the niche and your collection of half used shampoo and conditioner bottles. By using the same colour in the niche as the surrounding wall tile will make it less of a feature. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

I found the grout section just in case you couldn’t. Within 12 months of completion of the work: Grouting is defective if it is not installed to the requirements of AS 3958.1 Ceramic tiles – Guide to the installation of ceramic tiles. Grout lines are defective if they are not, as far as practicable, of consistent width. Finished grout is defective if it is not uniform in colour and is not smooth, without voids, pinholes or low spots and finished to the cushion on cushion edged tiles and flush with square edge tiles, except for tooling in accordance with AS 3958.1 – Ceramic tiles – Guide to the installation of ceramic tiles. Grout is defective if it becomes loose or dislodged.

rather than a small retreat and ens my suggestion would be to have a much more generous bathroom with sitting area (or space for a bath) and doors to the back verandah although sliding glass doors would be easier to screen and take up less floor space than French doors