Like most things in building you get what you pay for. I would ask exactly what the builder has quoted. Yes, I agree $1000 to stick on a strip of cheap IKEA lights is too expensive. However he may be quoting on co-ordinating the cabinetmaker and electrician to recess a better quality, rigid, fitting into the underside of the cabinetwork, concealing the wiring and transformer so it doesn't take up valuable shelf space, or is on display, and wiring it back to your main kitchen light switch, so $1000 for all of this sounds very reasonable for the neatness, convenience and longevity.Have a look at the neat, recessed LED lighting that has been built into the side of this shaving cabinet, and is wired back through the wall to the light switch adjacent to the door. It sure looks a lot nicer than a cheap white plastic Ikea stick-on light that is plugged into a power point with the white transformer being a feature of your kitchen. The Ikea stick on LED strips often comes unstuck when subjected to the steam that builds up under an overhead cupboard in a kitchen from a kettle or a stove. Some builders are poor communicators, so if a quote seems too high ask him exactly what he has allowed for. Best of luck with your kitchen task lighting, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

it's about defining and balancing form one way or the other. Typically I'll steer clear of application of natural finish timber on exteriors simply because it can weather so unevenly and involves maintenance. It look amazing for the first 6 months but come back in 2 years and see how it holds up - rough sawn Cypress pine probably the only exception Probably in your case less is more and let the flooring & deck be the timber elements. If you add another one into the mix likely it will be too much. Possibly if it is balanced, depending upon the articulation of the overhang, you could justify wrapping the stained black around and under to strongly define this aspect, but it will look a bit "hotch-potch" just matching the decking for that little bit. Continuing with white (to match ceiling) may be the more subtle option. Remember it's often what we don't do that makes great outcomes and not everything needs to be a feature. It sounds like you have plenty going on and perhaps think about balancing it out as an overall composition, rather that trying to draw attention to every single contributing aspect Cheers PD :)

could be that the gutter is too small to cope with the amount of rain and you may need deeper gutters and/or extra downpipes for the verandah and possibly the main roof of the house but you'll need a roof plumber to fix the problem before there's too much damage ... is this a new problem for a new veranda or has this suddenly happened to a verandah and guttering that's not been a problem before? new problem strongly suggest blockage

There is no way I would put anything that in any way resembles a bookcase there . I love the pots , and I'd incorporate them , but you only have to look and see ( or maybe see the irony ) -- great big picture windows looking at the wonderful greenery , and not a plant to be seen inside . Just me , I'd do a mix of styles and cultures -- those pots , some colourful glazed terracotta ones in brighter earthtones , green leafy plants , a bamboo , a fat cactus , a tall cactus in the pots , some river rocks and some pebbles ( in a frame if you have kids ) -- almost a fusion mixed garden of contemplation . $1000 max for a subtle or bold as you wish feature . . . . . . . . . .