Hi! So I'm not much help with paint color, but wanted to share two things that we did which you might consider: first, we got a high-heat black spraypaint (Rustoleum from Home Depot) and painted the fireplace face plate (the brass part) black, which instantly updated our fireplaces for about $10; second, I did not care for our red brick fireplace, and hand-painted it to look like a different color of brick. Without priming, I hand painted each brick Benjamin Moore Eagle Rock, then sponged on a lighter grey (Willow Creek) and a darker grey (Ironhorse, I think). Later, I decided it needed some brown, so I sponged on a bit of watered down brown paint (can't remember the color). I took care not to get paint on the mortar. The whole project took about a day. It came out great and I get tons of complements. If you are at all hesitant about getting the "painted brick" look when you do it all in one color, I would consider tying this method first. 99% of people would not know that the brick had been painted. If you don't like the way it turns out, you can always go back to your original plan!

house is good in white. ensure you choose off white colour such as cotton woll and not brilliant white whike repainting. Gate in black. boundary wall in mud colour. overall it would look like a spanish villa. only thing missing is a big olive tree or a palm tree

Djhamu, why wouldn't it be fair enough a question ? The reasons of measurement differences could be many: 1 - Approximates: Eg. 10'4" Could be be considered as 11' and 10.5" by two different people. 2 - Work Approach : In a ABC triangle one has an option of going directly from A-C or from A - B and then B - C. Depending upon which route they take their measurements will be different. 3 - Misunderstood/missed requirements: When you say I need painting, some one will consider just painting while another one will include 2 coats of putty one of primer and then paint. Difference! 4 - Taking measurements lightly : Some folks know just by previous experience that a 2 BHK home painting would cost them say X and they give a rough measurements which will differ from the one taken by some one more methodical with measurements. The reasons of price differences is like any other service say a Doctor. Skill, Experience, Demand and competition are some of the economic factor that help them decide market rates. It doesn't mean the costliest one is best or cheapest one is not good. Recommendation: It's good to be involved in the process but too much of intervention by a new cook surely spoils the broth :). When I go to a Doctor I don't ask him how he knows which medicine is best for me or how much I should take :) likewise trust your professional here (unless you have a strong reason of not trusting her) Best way to approach would be to hire a trusted consultant, get your 2D- 3D drawings, measurements, product and material specifications, in black and white . Use this detail sheet to get a quote from different vendors. For example with drawings in your hand you already know that your wall is 9'1 X 15' measurement ask a quote with details like how many quotes of putty/ primer and sanding of which brand are required. It shall cover most of the differences above. 3 tips : : I have personally seen that people who 'know too much' are very easily duped. They fall quickly for the 'ego' trap. : Trust the people who have done good job in past with your friends and family, search around , get involved but not too much. Genuine reviews are there because people have been happy.. : Finally, don't fall for sweet talks :D Some one is 'cheaper' for a reason. Most of the jobs you mentioned is measured either in per/sqft or lump-sum basis. Thanks, Nitin Cornerstone Designs, Bangalore.

Hi, I would suggest removing 2 of the units of the main cabinet below. The void between the full unit will add an extra dimension in the overall look and feel. Also, removing the moulding that runs across it should help. Since you plan for a wooden flooring complimenting it with white glossy finished shutters and a soft backdrop wallpaper could enhance the look. To complete the picture, you can think of investing on a large painting / wall planter in place of the uprooted wooden box. Hope you find any ideas useful. Thanks