Thank you everyone for your ideas. We are about to paint the walls an off white - double merino, and thought we might paint the doors and pelmets the same and now after reading your comments I think we will leave the timber beams and paint the ceiling between them the same as the walls, and will consider the bar supports too. What do people think about painting ceilings, doors and walls the same colour?

These chairs are easy to recover and the range of fabric available today gives you plenty of choice. I say go for it. If you don't feel up to it yourself get an upholsterer, but plenty of YouTube tutorials about.

I have just bought a schweigen with motor on the roof. The best information and help that I got was from the installers. Parex Industries are the NZ importers, but I must say the only help they gave me was the phone number of the installers. I just tried to find it for you but can't. They are brilliant to talk to and get advise from. I spoke to them before I purchased. The one thing that I realized is the installation is one of the major factors. Give Parex a ring and get installers number will be your best bet, all the retail outlets did was provide conflicting information.

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!!!