Caulking should be neat and smooth and NOT hit you in the eye visually. Personally, I'd probably be having a tiny "not really happy" moment (and phone call, and email) over it - but then that's me. There is no earthly reason why a clear sealant couldn't have been used other than whoever did it was either lazy or not interested and the supervisor for the job didn't check it. As for the agents agreement that it could be taken back a little - blow that for a joke - it should be stripped out, clear sealant used and the job done in a professional trademan like manner as this is a new build and if you wanted an amateur to have a go - you'd have done it yourself rather than paying for "skills". Sorry, this stuff really bugs me - I'll get off my soapbox now. :)

Thank you all for your reassuring comments. I agree, in the midst of building you're in the 'zone' and small things can be made out to be bigger things. I guess it is all about expectations - expecting one thing and getting another. I now feel more content with the finished feature wall, based on all your comments. Many thanks!

You should have what you prefer . The first , brick , pattern looks busier and the second looks plainer . Either looks fine to me , though as a personal choice I like a more streamlined look .

I'm in WA, so this is what happens here. Find a builder and a design that you like. In WA a lot of companies do a Demolish and Build all in the one contract. If you are not organised this maybe the way to go. Speak to the builder and get all your design issues sorted, and what the time lines are for the build to start. Contact a demolition company/s, that is appropriate for your type of home removal. Questions of correct asbestos removal, or what is salvageable for resale, are good to ask. In WA, homes need to be baited for 4 weeks prior to the actual demolition. So while your arranging your new home design, this can be commenced with demolition company. The demo company also has to apply for and be approved a demo permit, before any of this starts to happen. If you are living in your home, then you need to find other accommodation as soon as you have organised the demolition people. Approval is done for demo, home is baited and sits for 4 weeks, home is demolished. While this has been happening you have organised your design and building approval etc etc. The builder will take over the site, once you have had the demolition completed and signed off by council. We started the process with our builder for design in July 2013 We signed contract in Feb 2014 We had our home physically demolished in Feb 2014 But started that process 6 weeks prior. Building licence approved in June 2014 Moved into our new home June 2015. Double storey, double brick, concrete slabs upper and lower.