Here's the original discussion ([https://www.houzz.com.au/discussions/help-with-stairs-dsvw-vd~5209387[(https://www.houzz.com.au/discussions/help-with-stairs-dsvw-vd~5209387)) for context.

Lovely new laundry, it would be a mistake to cut/angel the bench top, leave it as it is and as already suggested have a"filler" panel the same material as the cabinets fitted up and under the bench top and across between the cabinet and wall. I'am hoping that the bench top goes to the wall which perhaps should have repaired before fitting the cupboards, but if it doesn't the tiles could cover this up

We have a backyard with 2 x Colorbond 'Monument' fences alreacy in place! We are about to replace our other old timber fence! Looking to soften the look before landscaping and planting round a new pool! Looking for advice in fencing colours to complement tge 'monument' everywhere out back! Basalt or Shale grey etc?? Even neighbours hv monument everywhere (ie roofing, guttering etc - as well as our shared fencing already mentioned! Thoughts?

Hi Erin-hem, It maybe too late for changes if you have seen your kitchen designer but I would like to through you a couple of ideas for consideration. In my opinion, the sink area is always the messiest area of the kitchen. Why don't you put that on your new extended outside wall and even include a window for extra light if possible. Put the dishwasher on the left end of that pop out too so it doesn't create an unusable corner on the right side. Then build a 1200mm long wall, 600mm deep into the dining space so you can have a return unit from beside the dishwasher that connects with the island bench. This changes it from a true island bench but gives you the untidy part of the kitchen hidden but not closed off. The wall doesn't need to be full height but needs to be higher than the bench. It can be a joinery item rather than a builders item to match the joinery finishes. Behind the 1200 long wall/screen can be all your tea, coffee etc and your appliances on the bench so usable all the time but not seen from the dining and living area. It also hides the sink from view from the living area. Below bench level in this 1200 section you could actually have drawers for cutlery and crockery that go two way so you can load them from the dishwasher and take them out from the dining room side to lay the table. No need for a pantry with such a long back bench which could have loads of drawers as suggested by someone else. Keep the fridge nearest the stairs so everyone can access it and not come right into the kitchen. If you are a real foodie and love cooking for friends and family, put the hobb on the now free island side. If not, leave it where it is and the 'island bench' is now just a layout and work area and sit at bench. If you have the space, make the gap between the stairs and the bench ample. Say 1300mm wide at least. Cheers, Christine.