Any advice if I try to figure out some of this myself? I found this website http://www.ikeasaudi.com/ikea.com.sa/images/stories/new2010/Web%20BG%202011/Kitchen/FAKTUM/FAKTUM_bg_GB.pdf Its overwelming for me. Did you use the online ikea design tool. I love your color scheme. How did you decide on that granite? I found this website too . Perhaps those cabinets are not available here but just where you are. either way I can find something similiar. Did you have any issues with ordering..getting parts.. assemely? Do you have any helpful tips for designing ? Did you actually hang them yourself? Is there anything about the cabinets that you find defective or insufficient or think could be better? Thank you so much for all your help.

I think the shutter idea would suit very well. Sliding timber shutters that open to let the light in. Timber is warm and will follow through into the kitchen tieing everything in for flow. Am assuming the timber will also be a great insulator. I'd still work on the outdoor area also as suggested. This would help to open the house to the outside and incorporate an earthy natural warm feel. Effectively, with herbs on the patio and a plant in the lounge, opening the area up whilst creating connection. It feels rather multifunctional and purposeful. Winter nights you have a cosy home, spring summer a functional, aromatic entertainment or relaxation area with the option of still overlaying with curtains should you desire. Roman blinds are simply not as functional or clean for doorways as a sliding directional shutter door. Place a great rug piece on the floor and you've defined the floor area. A tall standing plant in a corner will bring timber shutters and room size to life. Perhaps a feature painted wall behind the lounge to draw in colour from the patio and kitchen. :) Enjoy!

I think if you replace front door and glass panels as well as the old fashioned lights with something more contemporary it will make a huge improvement. I'd also remove the ironwork and as you cannot re-glaze place some pots and plants on the sides of the large windows to draw the eye away from all the green cross pieces on the windows. Eventually paint the gutters fascia in a light grey/green.

Hi Siriuskey, They are timber looking tiles - we absolutely love them. We are considering the same for the new place but potentially herringbone/parquetry arrangement. Much more expensive vs. laminate but easier to clean and no concern in relation to water...