I'll be the stirrer then -- nah , not really . It does look great , but at what cost ? The cottage had quite a high pitched roof -- this appears to be a shallow slope , and lots of windows -- so I see lots of $$$$ and a reasonable amount of engineering . Similarly , I am not a fan of too much white , no doubt not a sentiment shared by the client though -- I love the wooden floors , but I would have done a dark ( onyx or similar ) benchtop , and I would have tried to add a feature to the white wall of cupboards , and that sloping roofed part in the dining area -- maybe timber , maybe stone , maybe just a bold colour , such as bright red or orange chairs -- or maybe a combo of all those ?

Your budget will define your options. First floor extensions to Californian bungalows are automatically an expensive option due to the structural costs. The original structure was not engineered to support the weight of an additional floor, so the existing house will need some re-inforcement. Apart from the cost aspect you need a sympathetic designer who understands the style of the home. Too many Californian bungalows have lost their original charm by cheaply designed, unsympathetic boxes plonked on top and behind. Without a design it is hard to be precise about costs but I would anticipate that you will be well into the six figures, so be sure about how many hundreds of thousands you are prepared to spend before you engage a building designer. To be honest with a small block and a house that requires an expensive first floor extension you may be better off considering your moving options.... Best of luck with your budget, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls and Dr Retro Virtual Visits

What a charming home! I would not let the existing fireplace dictate the back half of the house. Depending on how the ceiling levels at the rear work I would consider relocating the laundry and powder room into the centre of the house where the kitchen is currently located. Re-use the fireplace for storage. Build your new kitchen immediately adjacent to the central laundry overlooking the new rear facing rooms. Perhaps engage a professional designer to assist you on the way, Best of luck Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls and Dr Retro Virtual Visits on Zoom

Very chic. That bar cart is fabulous. I need a martini now!