We got the IKEA shelves that are pictured in the butlers pantry photo I posted when we were on holiday in Melbourne, Australia. We don't have IKEA here in New Zealand! Hubby is going back over in May/June so will get him to get more of that sort of thing when there. We would pay about 4x the price for that sort of thing here in NZ. I need to work out what I will do now where the fridge was and there is the angle change (does that make sense?).

We are late 50's couple with 1 adult child living at home. The house design is unusual because of the unusual shape of the section. We are using the maximum coverage of the section at 40% The views are to the North out of the 2 lounge windows and 1 floor to ceiling window. We want this to be a house that has clever storage and all space to be utilised. Hopefully this is the house we retire to soon. We'd really like suggestions how to better use the space we do have. We have never built before and want to get it as right as we can. Our long term plan is to use the 2nd bedroom as an air bnb space with access around the back of the garage through sliding door into the bedroom. The bathroom and bedroom 2 can be locked off from the rest of the house. We have a medium sized dog and cat that share our space too. Thanks in advance for the suggestions.

In my experience Moewaka, it is usually more economic to keep as much of the existing as you can and add on what you need. Some things do depend on the level of finish you want to achieve too. We have done a number of Alteration and New Build projects, so feel free to contact if you would like further help www.gtarc.co.nz

In my opinion I perfer option 2 from the perspective of enjoying the sun in the evening and having the option of entertaining more so in the evening given the sun and house orientation. See you have a couple bi-fold doors in the living room so assume this leads out to a deck or some outdoor area for entertaining. Also the 3 main bedrooms will get the morning sun so will warm up till midday/early afternoon. Some something to note that Bedroom 4 in both options would likely be the coldest room in the house so probably some heating options would be required for this room. Some initial thoughts based on your plans - hope that helps