Cool! Looks interesting.

I like the blue touches already in the room, which reflect the brickwork. Agree with lots of creams/ neutrals, just adding some blue in cushions, artwork. Maybe a bluish/cream rug, with a subtle pattern, not a solid color. Also I think the lights are a little lost. The high ceilings could take some quite large shades, maybe drums. And I agree that the central column could be painted to become the focal point as stated. Either white or quite a dark grey/ blue, ( it might darken up things too much, but it's only paint, can be changed). It might be sinful but I think I would replace it with plaster, then paint it. Finally maybe a dash of 60s burnt orange or mustard if you want to want to keep the retro theme.

I love that look too - it's bright, clean and classic without being stark. Think about a warm white as it'll pick up warmth of Creme Brulee caesarstone. Perhaps look at Dulux Antique White. Remember too if there's a colour that matches your caesarstone and you like it you can do it in half or quarter strength so that it tones but isnt the same. If you can only get small paint chip samples grab a bunch of them and tape them together and put them in the space your cabinets will be with a sample of the caesarstone - paint colours change depending upon light. Good luck.

Just to confirm, by combination washer/dryer, you mean one machine performs both functions, correct? Some years ago, we bought one for our apartment. It was a good brand. It did not dry clothes properly, took forever, many drying cycles, and never dried clothes completely, so I cannot recommend.