Well balancing out material and costs labour costs is one thing but 2 story is quite a bit cheaper to build ; far less foundation and roofing area. It also simplifies the plumbing and of course is far more energy effective as downstairs heating will also contribute to upstairs heating. PROs can develop on this. And as Curt points out, modular is a very fast and cost effective solution which can allow you to put your pennies into better quality. Be very careful to select a known and competent professional if you go this way though, i don't know about NZ but europe abounds with cowboys ; low costers are to be strictly avoided.

Hi there, this is an extension that was added to our house in the 70's, I'm not sure what is on the wall but it needs to go!! If I could paint over it I would but I don't think we can, also any solutions for the block work? I would like to update it all and was thinking plastering over the block-work to get an even finish and replacing the brown "laminate"? with Gib. We are getting new carpet laid soon so I need to do this first! I am looking for the most cost effective solution as my husband doesn't think it is necessary.HELP!!!

I didn't see this either , and how long is a piece of string ? Wellington ( a bit like parts of Queenstown ) is known for steep slopes and high winds , so the actual design will affect things a lot -- my sister once 'conned' me into moving her to Wellington when she got a Government job . We loaded one of my small trucks and drove several hours , when we got to her new place on the side of Mt Victoria with lovely harbour views , it seems she had forgotten to mention that the new house was the one up there -- yes , a 1920's build 130 steps up from the street . Hard enough moving a glass fronted china cabinet and solid Kauri 1880s dining table -- imagine carting every bit of timber , tile , window , kitchen appliance up there !

We have had designed a 200m2 home and we would like raked ceilings in the dining and lounge areas. If it was a flat ceiling it would be 2155mm high. The lounge and dining are 20m2 each. Roughly, what is the expected extra cost of a raked ceiling v a standard flat one?