What is allowed will depend on your council, and I agree that developers of new estates seem to get away with everything. I queried my council about this and they said that only "non-living"spaces (I can't remember the term they used), can be built to the boundary fence. They said cupboards don't fit into this category - only things such as garages. They advised that it wouldn't probably be approved, but if I wanted to apply for a relaxation, then I should get my neighbour to state that they are okay with what I wanted to do and submit that with my application. Otherwise, how close you can go to the boundary is dependent on the height of your house. If lower level, you can go close to the boundary, then if the extension is double storey.

Comfy furniture & bed, favourite art works, then cushions, accessories etc that tell a story or remind me of places travelled.

Hi arcmaz Great house - fantastic 60's modern look - Harry Sidler (Modernist Architect 1923-2006 exponent of the Bauhaus style in Australia, mainly Sydney) would have loved the interpretation, its a good style, don't change it will pay dividends in the long run. It would be good if there was a plan of the house,and a plan of the block this would allow some relatively accurate planning proposals. If you had the real-state plan with the block plan it would help a lot. In terms of making the place bigger and retaining the style I would suggest that the extension (maybe one room and an en suite depending on a budget) be a block in the today's current style, but linked to the existing house via a "link" (Link =small walkway). This would allow you to retain the style, but not be dominated by a past period, I have done this a few times and it has worked fairly well. If you are looking for three bedrooms it might be best to add a master bedroom with a bathroom, and then maybe living areas with back yard access. There may be other approaches depending on the current layout that could be considered, but I would retain as much as the original as possible, and only make small cosmetic changes until you are ready for a worthy development. I hope this is of some help, I would be happy to comment further or work on this project. Regards - Michael Manias Manias Associates Building designers - mm407p@gmail.com

From someone who has lived in fourteen houses in twenty three years, I would say give yourself a minimum of six to twelve months to turn your house into something that feels like home. Live in it, sleep, work, and play in it; little by little, you'll be inspired to add details that will make it yours. Unless you can afford to hire a professional designer, and know you're on target with your designs, don't rush to buy new furniture or artwork, or really anything home decor wise until you've had time to get a "feel" for your new house. An exception might be plants. I love how a well placed house plant adds warmth. And of course, if the walls are painted in something you know you can't live with, please do paint before you move in! Neutral shades are always best. That vibrant green you loved in your previous bedroom may feel tacky and garish in your new one.