as a mum I agree worktop is priority, but also there's extreemly little cupboard storage so I would stick with the pantry cupboard and add a freestanding ikea Varde unit like attached pic ( I would have preferred integrated dishwasher too and a bit of moulding/ shape to the door style in a perfect world ) where's the fridge supposed to go?

Hi Ang, I thought I'd follow up my earlier comment with pictures of before and after of pine cupboards I specified to be painted in a budget makeover. My clients tell me people presumed they had purchased brand new cabinetry, so startling was the makeover. Somehow I have put the "after" on the left and "before" image on the right!

Water marks don't need to be cleaned off (unless they are permanent). It just means your stone needs to be sealed. You can get a high grade sealer/ impregnator at Granquartz or Regent. Seal your marble twice a year and that problem should go away. Buy one of the half liters or 4 oz bottles (the former should last you two seals at least). This is a good quality for marble: https://www.granquartz.com/Pages/ItemProfile_Detail.aspx?ItemProfileId=1748&ItemClassNo=92 And this one is particularly good for sealing marble, especially in the kitchen: https://www.regentstoneproducts.com/item_detail2.aspx?ItemCode=ZETASEAL

I'm thinking this discussion could help you! https://www.houzz.com.au/discussions/concrete-bench-top-what-are-your-thoughts-dsvw-vd~3228715