- Changing from your existing masonry fireplace to the linear gas fireplace in the photo you posted a link to would likely be fairly expensive, as it would require removing/modifying the masonry of your existing fireplace, but there are other approaches you might consider. One of the keys to modern is minimalism. You might try keeping the appearance as uncluttered as possible - perhaps by removing an existing mantel or stripping away other elements to leave only the most essential parts. If it is a wood burning fireplace, the building code requires that you leave non-combustible hearth protection in front of the fireplace, but you might be able to change the hearth material to make it more modern (pink wall with hearth flush on floor). The other thing you might consider is changing over to a modern gas burner, with glass media or stones (first photo, with black mantel). There are gas inserts that are beautiful as well last photo with stone wall), but the investment goes up when you get into a full system with firebox, surround, venting etc. If you have a photo of your current situation, we might be able to tailor our suggestions to be more helpful.

plan seems to be ok vastu wise. (assuming north -south axis is diagonal and not aligned to the axis of the house) regarding son's bedroom 1 - try making the washroom more square towards the left exterior wall and the box room in front of it. Best to keep wet areas together, i.e. wc, shower and tub in one zone and dry area i.e. the basin in one zone. Also you could change the orientation of the bed as there is no privacy in the current layout. Maybe same as guest room's bed orientation. Another option would be to to re orient the door. the dining area also should have some window opening. The master bedroom, in spite of being of good size, has hardly any wardrobe space. The space before the 2 pillars could be used for wardrobes with some rework on the walls and door alignment. I feel the whole plan needs some re working to take out the best use of the space. You can send us the autocad plan and we can help you rethink the layout along with interior design help.

Hello Rahul, limiting to your query on granite - It is quite a beautiful, natural and hard material. For applications in kitchen, store and balcony they would do good. There are some points you should consider for granite application - - Granite usually occur in dark shades so consider the lighting in the area of application. - Ask the vendor for iron content in any natural stone for avoiding rust marks. - The process of application and polishing is cumbersome but thank god in India, craftsmen are easily available. - Do not go for a elaborate gloss polish to avoid skidding/slippery floors. - It is also advisable to re-polish/reseal them every 3-5 years. Thanks, Nitin CORNERSTONE DESIGNS, Bangalore.

Your terrazzo flooring is one of the most durable floors but they need to be cleaned and sealed with a clear penetrating sealer to enhance their appearance and to prevent wear and tear. This is a hairline crack, simply sand the area with 80 grit paper, fill the crack with white portland cement, let dry, sand again with 200 grit paper, once satisfied apply concrete sealer.