I have a weird shaped window that I am having difficulty solving. I need to be able to control the light, while still being able to see out. The room gets cold in winter (south facing), and hot in summer (gets sun early morning and late afternoon). I need to control the light so my fabric and paper don't fade, need the lovely even light for working, and have a lovely view from my desk. Venetians or vertical blinds would be perfect except for the angles. Any suggestions?

Looking for a exterior color makeover for my 1990's Queenslander. Color advice needed for new roof color and exterior paint color for this plaster-cladded beauty. Unfortunately, house has classic Karaka green window joinery that can't be changed/painted (not in budget). I have to maximize my small budget with a paint job. I have a nearby standalone garage that needs the same paint job. We will clean and treat the veranda posts a cedar stain and I hope to add some stonework accents when I find the money that would give the house some more curb appeal; but for now, need to paint roof and exterior house and inject some WOW!!

Looking at the bench , I assume that aged look is what you are going for ? How artistic are you ? I'm thinking you'd carry on in a similar vein -- paint the trim in white , but while its still damp ( so within say 30 minutes ) dab on some off-white and even buttery cream , using a sponge , in a bit of a 'rub' pattern . Likewise , I quite like the faded blue jeans look on the sill -- thats a bit harder to do , but maybe a cream base , then thin the blue with turps or water , and also sponge it on , but basically in solid rubs , like you were nuggetting your shoes .

Hi, is there any minimum window clearance under NZ building standard? I would like to install a 1600x350x350mm wall mount side cabinet in my bathroom which will beside window. Is there any rule that can't be installed too close to the window due to the impact to the window structure?