No, I'm sorry, but it doesn't work for me at all. That unrelieved expanse of shiny white is quite disorienting. You don't quite know where the light is coming from. But the colour isn't the main problem here. Although it isn't pretty, the "before" kitchen actually has a lot going for it. The new kitchen has the benches all at the same height, which is a problem because different kitchen tasks are most comfortable at different heights. The surface that houses your sink needs to be relatively high so that when you're using the sink you don't have to bend your back. That's uncomfortable! Conversely, a cutting surface is better if it's relatively low, because that way you can control the knife better. It's a safety thing. The new kitchen has the cooktop and the sink under wall-mounted cupboards. You're absolutely sure the extractor fan whisks all the steam and particulates out of there? Most don't, you know. And with the cupboards at that height, if you're standing close enough to cook or wash up can you see to the back of the bench? No, it's not you, it's the design. Look at the old kitchen. It has surfaces at a variety of heights, and although the sink is under a cupboard you can stir the sauce on the stove without bumping your head, I think. I could be totally wrong about this. The featured kitchen might be a joy to work in. I do think, though, that this does not look like a kitchen designed by a cook.

bigreader I'm okie..thanks for caring ..just need time to readjust kind of walked out on my job..so looking for stuff to fill in my time ..I hate being bored and sitting sround fiddling my thumb been looking for courses to do and taking my camera out.. these I took yesterday in Warrandyte..

I think I just became better at creating aesthetically pleasing storage solutions within main living zones. I was generally a "everything has a place" kind of person and pre children that place was always as out of sight as possible. When I had children I then had a bunch of 'stuff' that didn't have a place and that 'stuff' had to be front and centre in my kitchen/dining/living space which was a tough gig for me. I learnt how to incorporate children's toys/play zones/soft fall into my living area without feeling like my home was styled by my under 2's.

As previously mentioned, not traditional baths can be a nightmare with kids, so if kids are on your agenda, have a good think. Also, if you are not going to stay in the house for a LONG time, consider resale. Parents look for traditional baths for young children and non-traditional bathrooms look good, but can be a real turnoff. If this is your forever, no-kid home, go for it. If not, perhaps reconsider. I am also wondering why you are looking to spend so much on a bathroom that you will not be using (apart from the bath)? Just be careful you haven't overspent/overcapitalised on a portion of the house that really only needs to be functional and modern. People might love the bathrooms on the block, or whatever, but they buy houses in their price-range with functional amenities. Just some food for thought. Good luck with the build.