Hi, what period is the property? I would be tempted in see what's behind the plastered chimney breast where the fireplace used to be. Where the fire opening is. You may discover that theres some nice bare brick that just needs rendering or the original fire back. Get a period cast iron fire surround off Ebay (very affordable) that will fit the opening and place a couple of candles in there. it would add more character to the room than a blocked off fireplace / lifeless chimney breast.

Hi Danni, just checked out the site....yep, you are right, terrible reviews. I had a quick look around but could not find the table below £1.5k with a comany l would trust my money with..... Sorry l can't help you. Good luck Deborah

Thank you all for your comments. kl55hp your project sounds equally exciting. One thing that I learned so far is the need for light, big windows, big doors!! We have exactly the same dilemma regarding living in the house during the building work; it will save a lot of money as well. You have definitely thought this further than us. Sounds like there is a consensus regarding using a professional to help us make some decisions! OnePlan, thank you for the pictures the colours are spot on. Were thinking of a slightly more modern look by incorporating some gloss cabinets to reflect light etc. Thank you all once more!

As promised, here is the response received just now from the supplier. I await your comments with interest- Hi, Good day to you. Our suppliers have come back to us with the following comments"Firstly sorry for the delay in replying to your email, we have recently returned from our 2 week Summer Shutdown…. With reference to your email regarding the WN206 Nest of Tables, unfortunately this will happen because the furniture is manufactured from Oak wood and when the timber oxidises with the natural light the furniture will mellow and become darker, so if this area has not been exposed it will remain the original colour from purchase. We do not stain our furniture only apply a 5% durable dull laquer sheen. We could offer to sand back the table top and repolish, but you would need to collect the item from the customer and deliver to our factory in Newton le Willows, however this would be chargeable to yourselves. Please advise on how you would like to proceed? Regards,