The mezzanine and storage spaces. Next to the mezzanine the builder installed a little door for us to give us access into the roof space. As the kids are using the mezzanine as a chill out area to watch TV play video games the storage now holds their board games, art and craft etc. The girls painted the walls to brighten it up. As the ducted system didn't work too well at the front of apartment we had to install a split system AC to cool down the study and the two front bedrooms.

Hi Katie, I think sanding and re-varnishing the deck to a darker colour is a great idea, this will make the space feel a lot warmer and more inviting. With regards to the bench colour I would recommend painting it a dark grey, you could also consider installing a stone bench-top. I also think the space would benefit from some greenery - you could use large format pots, we always recommend grouping in odd numbers e.g. cluster of 3, plant with varieties such as Raphiolepis, Dichondra Silver Falls, Crassula Blue-bird and succulents. Good luck with it all!

If you are still looking at benchtop options you want to consider our QuantumSix+ 12mm porcelain sheets. Measuring 3200x1600mm so it is ideal for a seamless long bench or the 6mm porcelain for a splashback. The 12mm is available in 2 colours - white with grey vein or white with a gold/grey vein (marble look). 6mm is available in 8 colours from marble look to industrial grey. Check out our website for imagery: http://wk.com.au/Gallery/QuantumSix-Gallery/8

From previously post, I thought your pool house was facing more north east, than east. Therefore are retractable awning may help until the sun goes around to the west. And in winter you will not require any shade, it will be a perfect spot to get away from the household. Regarding the office set up in the pool house. You need a desk or two or even a built in bench with draws underneath, for stationery, filing, general paperwork. You need space for a printer/scanner. Filing cabinets, or cupboards for files, and books, accessible nbn point for your modem, unless you are using an extension from the home. Wall for white board or cork board. One or two good ergonomic office chairs. And last, a sofa bed. This is our office, the buffet is actually my cabinet which is holding a4 files, and stationery. Plus the sofa bed.