Instinctively I voted no, never! But what's that saying, stuff expands to fill space available? I suppose it's a balancing act to have plenty of storage to enable you to be comfortable and organised without encouraging you to acquire more stuff thus needing more storage....

Wilson, one way to accrue a list of potential builders, is to drive around your area of Sydney and make note of which builders and building projects similar to yours as well as those who are currently building houses you admire. I would compile as many as possible and be discerning in your list. You might also notice how long particular builds are taking and if tradesmen are regularly on-site. I realise in Sydney this could be a big job, but it may well be worth your time. Then, check out the builders' websites to see their projects and any reviews. As you move closer to short-listing builders, make an appointment to meet with them to show and talk about your project. You will get a better feel for who you think you can work with, any creative ideas they may have to improve elements of your plan, reduce building costs, etc.

I live with a beautiful sea view which I love, but which presents its own set of challenges. When we moved in the interior was painted grey but on an overcast day, all I see out the window is grey - grey sky, grey sea and when I turned around there were grey walls as well. It was quite oppressive. We’ve repainted a lovely soft white which isn’t too dazzling on a bright day, but definitely lifts the gloom on a dull day. I’ve added punches of bright colour here and there and now I love my space (and my view in all weathers)

It gets too humid where I live and so the dryer probably gets used more than I would prefer. Every new laundry should have a space for a clothes dryer so what you have done looks spot on. At ground level you can easily transfer from the washing machine to the dryer. In smaller laundries with less wall then stack them as you still need space for a sink. I don't think stacking looks as smart if its a property for sale, however space efficiency is key, so it really depends on what how you want the space to function. Having bench space is also important for sorting and general working.