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.

Lava stone bench is fantastic! You have great taste so I am sure you will make it all work. As with any room, maybe just consider which element you want to be the 'hero' ie. do you want people to notice the benchtop first, the rug? Then play up that feature and blend the rest into the background more. If you have too much going on colour or pattern-wise the different elements of the room will compete with each other and the room won't have it's focus. Love love your bar chairs as well!!! :-)

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.

your dilemma is difficult to understand without more information and would be so much easier if we had the original whole house plan with dimensions and showing front and back entry, and views, size and position of prop0sed pool and all existing windows and doors, any walls doors or windows that can't be changed and direction of north...as well as any special requests for the kitchen