Progress, our laundry is becoming a laundry bathroom and sink is in and washing machine working a big relief when you have 3 children under 6. First photo can see washing machine sink next to external door, I was planning to mount dryer above bench but have found out my dryer is not able to be mounted on wall..... oh well I don't use it very often it can live in the garage maybe more overhead cupboards Second photo new external door where window was ,,, am loving the extra light and the direct access to the clothes line. You can see the existing toilet area. The old broom cupboard now has a window for light and ventilation and plumbing for shower Third photo the opening for the new cavity door into spare bedroom yet to be completed. The plumbing showing hole in wall as we have put an outdoor shower both hot and cold, taps for washing machine and sink. We also had to put water and drain in for shower. In answer to the costing $5500 for the demolition, doors windows and all plumbing. cabinets $1500 $500 for the fittings taps 2 showers etc Still have to tile and paint We are happy with the way it is looking

personally I know it is modern but I do not like the wooden addition to the bench. I would suggest you just carry the bench (black marble if you can afford it) so that it has a greater over hang and serves the same purpose as a breakfast bar. To me the wood currently looks an eyesore.

Hi There, not all the Caesarstone tops leave finger marks I have the Raw Concrete in my kitchen and yes we do need to clean it but its a really nice look in a matte finish and we are happy with it, I have had many years experience with stone benchtops and silestone is OK but it can differ from the sample a little as they source the materials from multi-able countries which can create variations to the sample, Caesarstone is more on point when matching the colour sample and this would explain the extra cost in the product. In short id suggest like I do with all my clients go to a show room where you can see the stone in large samples to best gauge the look and feel of the products looking at 100mm x 100mm samples does not cut it when spending the amount you do for stone. good luck with your search. http://www.caesarstone.com.au/find-a-display https://www.silestoneoceania.com/where-to-buy/

It looks pleasant enough , and personally I'd keep the benchtop as I like the warmth of the wood -- a bit of age and wear adds to the character IMO . I wouldn't glue anything over tiles -- I'd chisel and sand and get a decent base , as I'd be worried moisture , bacteria , food waste would somehow get into the grout and gaps etc , even if you put skirtings around the edges . Mind you , I prefer tiles , be they square or subway or modern with metallics , they seem more interesting than a coloured piece of glass ( splashback ) , even if tiles are potentially more work . Maybe I'd just update my tiles , but I'll want and see your new photos .