Hi Ni, I just thought of something....did you say you planned to do the stencil motifs on the window wall? If so, I am thinking they will be mostly hidden by the curtains. I wonder if it might be better to stencil the long wall that is on the right side of the room when looking toward the window. I could see this being a pretty backdrop to the prayer box (I think that’s what you called it?) and your wood cuttings. Then maybe the opposite wall (the one with the kitchen doorway) could hold a large piece of art?

Usually when you get side panels you automatically have space on the sides. If you have a full depth cabinet on the top, you automatically have space at the top and in most cases you will have leave at least 1 inch of extra room for the back of the refrigerator, so there is always air circulation since everything is enclosed. In the 70's they use to make a small recessed space behind like Fred said, today you don't have to do that, most Ref have flat backs, recessed wiring, not to mention the supply for ice-maker also comes in a flush mounting kits for the wall... so pretty much everything is recessed and only space you need is for air circulation and 1" is more then enough. In addition, if you make recessed area now and you push ref to far you will never get your doors open so doing all that is a waste of time, in addition most manufacturers starting to make 30" side panels.

Congratulations to all of you. Its a wonderful platform to be on and you all are doing a great Job. My favourite Design Style is 'Minimal'. I just have this strong connection with simple, subtle and elegant things. Cheers:)

@ Divya Sreedar. You will have to contact all of the ceramic boutiques that deal with imported tiles in Chennai. Attached below is a photo from AMSET ONE store in trivandrum with the subway tiles on display as I have seen. It takes 3 weeks to arrive from order date. If you like us to deal with the purchase please contact us or you could call them directly to find out.