I strongly second One Plan's idea about looking for another architect. If this one is not motivated, all the fame in the world is not going to help. An alternative approach to finding an architect is to find some good contractors who have built things you like. Ask them for architects' names. Make sure they work in your price range. In the meantime, you can find out from your local building department what the set back and height restrictions are. Are you required to build parking areas or garage space, what kind of airspace restrictions do you have for neighbors' views and sunlight, that kind of thing. Often this stuff is on city websites or handouts at the office.

HI RinaI do agree I love jewelbox rooms, but I consider them more cosy ... and with a grey marble floor it goes all Versace Italianate! I am trying to balance the colours by bringing in a pattern on the covers rather than plain. I feel this will bring colour without overpowering the room. In the pictures I showed above, the rooms are basically neutral but the colour is brought in via pattern - I think this might be the way to go...Ideally a green or blue on a subdued grey would be the best, but I dont know what the market is like for Sumit...Cushions can do a lot to tie in the other white/grey elements.Shelley - navy is a good suggestion, but as Sumits area is quite tall and thin, trying to keep the general area light Any more suggestions most welcome. These are just ideas after all and Sumit will choose what works for the room in the end ;-)

If you want to use it all the time it will need to be coverd I am not sure if you have actual winter where you are but normally the top portion of the deck would be enclosed to use all year and the lower portions just left open and use when the weather is good. Sort of like this.

Your rugs are beautiful and very good quality. They compliment your property well. It is natural for wool to shed at first, but it will eventually stop. You can get a special carpet rake or use a broom to rake or brush the carpet weekly and also vacuum it once or twice a week. The shedding should stop after a few months. Once you get through that period, you can enjoy the many great qualities that wool has. It is extremely durable, more stain resistant than most, flame retardant and self-extinguishing, and it actually regulates temperature & humidity in the home by absorbing & releasing moisture as needed. That's how it amazingly feels warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Good luck! Don't give up on your rugs just yet!