Thanks, bpathome. I will definitely ask that the step be eliminated. You're right, it doesn't really help anyone enter or exit the tub. A grab bar is more important. The gas fireplace under the piano window would vent out the back with no chimney (no deck behind it either -- just concrete). We'll get a contemporary linear shape -- echoing the look of the window above. The loft has always been frustrating. The light it lets in is really the only good thing about it. Our neighbour with the same floor plan uses hers as a play area for grandchildren. The builder suggested making it an office. I see it as just another TV-watching space, maybe with a pullout sofa for guests (family) who don't mind the lack of privacy once in a while. I'm glad you like the electric fireplace! Most people I talk with are very snobby about gas vs. electric ... electric equalling fakey-fake and useless. Technically, it COULD be gas up there, but I think making it movable (or removable) is wiser in this case. It's that darn loft again ... what will it be when it grows up? This post was edited by troff on Sun, Mar 16, 14 at 16:24

I feel your pain, my total loss house fire was a year ago and not even a rough inspection yet. Have also experienced weeks with no workers. I can't even find the words to describe how I am feeling. Am not a decorator - but want to try to help you. Some ideas: 1. Have you considered putting some glass (maybe semi-opaque/fog instead of clear), maybe with interior lighting, in some cabinets to lighten them up? 2. Can you paint/change one or more cabinets to a lighter color? Mixing cabinet colors seems to be very instyle. 3. Can you change the backsplash? That may be the easiest option to lighten things up. 4. If you have not already, spend time on Houzz looking at kitchen pictures for ideas. 5. Browse kitchen showrooms to find a style you like. Then hire their KD for a consultation. 6. The attached pic from Houzz has dark cabinets & countertops and medium floors and is one of my favorite kitchens. I don't think you have to go with a light floor, that you won't like. I wish that I could help you more. Good Luck.

i found 3 boxes of them and the connections, got them all out into the gardens over the past week and they are all working very well....sure better than schlepping hoses all over..glad i found them and got them installed.

YOu need an interior designer with a lot of kitchen design under their belt This is all about function then the pretty stuff and that involves an actul visit to the space taking all meaurements and many visits with you to get it right . The kitchen to me seems to be very small and closed in so I would be wanting to work with that first.