roo, I'm so happy for Miss 6! That's the thing about kids, we worry like mad and they heal so quickly. She'll be the best in her gymnastics class, you'll see. I will have to pass on that walking bridge, or you go first, ok? judy! A mosquito! Too funny. How did you presentation go? Did they LOVE the wallpaper? MP, great job on the midget's walls! Who cut all the wood? It does look really good, has boo mappin seen it yet? I'll bet she loves it. Olldtrazz, sorry, I know nothing about sisal rugs. But I know about flokati rugs and I want one! I can't imagine how one would vacuum a flokati and I do know the dog would eat it so I don't think they're practical.

Treasure it for the gem of a 1940s/50s home it is, complete with glorious wrought iron work. Suggestions have been made as to how to boost the height to meet current building codes. You will regret updating the exterior for what is likely to be a one that will date quickly and be higher maintenance . It is only a matter of time until such homes are as treasured as Victorian terraces or Californian bungalows. It is an icon of its time. Accept it for what t is. Why make your house look like a fashion victim of 2019, when it stands in almost the full glory of its original period? It will also save you a fortune too! But yes, minimise the concrete! and add a garden that refects the period the house was built. Roses if you like them, with maybe a magnolia or crepe myrtle feature tree but for lower maintenance try some architectural and ground covering succulents. You could also go with edibles like feature citrus and olives for a Mediterranean feel.

Hi all, we have spent winter up north and now on the never ending task of updating our home. Flooring still not changed at this point waiting on tradesmen for ensuite and kitchen update. I have attached photos of the lounge and family/kitchen. Would like some help re colour/fabric for a window seat on the bay window. I did take away all curtains and blinds have been installed. Kitchen cupboards are a salmon colour and the cabinets can still be used with new doors and side panels replaced. I have always been a lover of white kitchens but not sure of colour for splaceback/tiles/bench. One minute I have made up my mind to have wood on all floors except lounge and bedrooms then someone says what is wrong with your tiles it's a waste of money and a lot of work! I am not sure that a white kitchen would go with the current tiles . Any advise would be more than welcome. Sandra (loving Houzz)

I like glass: it makes the room look modern and spacious and bright. But I can certainly understand your worries about keeping it spotless. (Glass only looks nice if it's clean.) If you are worried about "too many lines" would changing the changing the colour of the iron to something more subtle be an option for you? I agree with Matthews about keeping the balustrade simple and leave out the ornament. The other thought I had was that your staircase has open steps. I find it more constistant to keep the railing open as well instead of closing it up on one side.