from my experience extending a small amount is not necessarily cheaper than extending a lot and any extension means that you'll have to have plans made and a Development Application approved by the local council (and these two items will cost thousands before any renovating begins) and you will be very surprised how quickly your budget will disappear without very careful preparation ... a plan of the existing house and a wish list is the best way to start..in the meantime, what condition is the existing kitchen, laundry and flooring? could the old kitchen appliances and sink be reused? what about flatpac cupboards? could the work be divided into stages so that you don't run out of money halfway (eg could floor and painting be done later?)..why not post a floor plan with measurements to invite suggestions for the new rooms and i can draw up a plan with the total sq m for you

Siriuskey, thumbs up on the designer of that bathroom and you for posting. I just love them. Drying shouldn’t be too much of an issue, thank goodness, as the en suite has the wood heater directly flued into it during the winter and, with good airflow, it’s not a problem in the warmer seasons, and the other bathroom will mainly be used by guests and the towels laundered appropriately. I find, Lorraine, in my household everyone just tosses the towels over the shower and the rails just collect dust. The coat hook idea is going to be perfect, and AH the idea of choosing a slightly more ornamental one will be perfect. So once again guys, thx. You’ve made this house thing so much easier

I am building a new house by the beach and at present I have thought of using Whitsunday Island as main render colour and Gatehouse as the highlight. Going with Surfmist roof and have “Random Pearl” stacked stone feature. Do you think Whitsunday Island will give off too much glare in the sun? Thanks.

Hi Natasha, a beautiful vase that you can bring greenery into the room, make it as simple or ornate as you feel suits your space, I love adding different things of interest, even a branch off your tree in a vase can look amazing , have a look at Adairs they have some funky pieces at the moment.