It is awkward and trying to work with the space we were given and the existing windows and on other info makes it very hard. But Houzz is a place to ask for ideas and I love to push the boundaries so that it makes you think about what just might be possible so that you don't end up with another same old same old space. I haven't noticed that Island benches are no longer desired..Anne is using a professional cabinet maker and was looking for inspiration/ideas for when she meets him/her. You might be surprised just how much experience some Houzzers have under their belts

Thank you Geluka and Margot, the breakfast bar won't be 2 level, the app we used to draw up this design doesn't allow a single piece of bench (to wrap around the support column) hence the split level look. We will have a glass door for our mud room/laundry entrance. Probably won't have a pergola as the courtyard will be quite small and narrow post extension. I am considering moving the oven tower to the end of the bench housing the stove top. Assuming a 900mm stove, 600mm oven tower that will leave 600mm clearance on either side of the stove top. Many thanks, Ee ;)

Hi Lila The waste pipe can still work with the L shape but if you are concerned, switch the sink and BBQ locations. That way the BBQ fumes will be further from the house too. Access to the back yard is always a consideration but I wouldn't let it rule your overall design as there are always ways around it. I had a mini bobcat come through my house to dig the pool in the back yard when I lived in Brisbane!!! A sail maker or equestrian sewer could easily make a good cover for the bench unit and I've seen it work on several occasions, but I would save up for the pergola to the side of the house which without any issues with the neighbour, could go to within 1.1m of the boundary or just as I drew it. Good luck with the decision making and enjoy your alfresco lifestyle.

Um, why? Looks difficult to clean, difficult to access, and impossible to safely bath kids. I would avoid at all costs. No prospective real estate buyer ever said "I love the combined bath and shower arrangement" as they are generally universally hated, especially if there are toddlers, or elderly in the household . If you do go with this dangerous proposition then make sure you have plenty of well anchored grab rails so you don't knock your teeth out when your head hits the floor. Have a look at the Posh Domaine Shower Bath, which has a flatter, squarer base, rather than your traditional bath Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls and Dr Retro Virtual Visits.