Hello Stefkhs, Most welcome, I think with some fabulous mid century pieces you can really make this into a very charming and unique property. It sounds absolutely amazing! A dream project! Do show some pics of the pool... and ask if you want any further advice. By the way the shelving can easily be obtained to make a divider... Some of the early Columbo episodes are a fantastic inspiration! LA has amazing architecture..I've been a fan since I was 9! Definitely don't plasterboard and skim over it will take away what is interesting about the whole place. Besides I think it's less work and actually will be far more appealing to a cool customer! .. :))

Is the price reasonable given the age and condition of the property? Were there others after it? If you think it's overpriced then there might be grounds for negotiation. Some people are prepared to take on a house with some issues if they plan a huge refurbishment and will still make money. Where we live, houses that are being sold on behalf of an elderly person who may need care tend to be very highly priced, due to the astronomical cost of care. Finally, nobody reads a surveyors report without some feeling of trepidation, they always sound worse than they are. Do you have any builder contacts who you could show it to in order to put your mind at rest?

Most old house have been altered throughout their lives, sometimes for the better and sometimes to their detrimen: it's all part of their history and charm. I personally love this fireplace, but obviously, it's down to personal taste. However, I wouldn't rush to remove it, even though I know from personal experience, that the urge to get out the sledgehammer is sometimes very strong in certain people! Could you try living with it for a while------- I know that in terms of more disruption and mess you want to get it over and done with in one go, but better that than do something you would later regret ,

Hey there! I know this post is a bit old, but I thought I'd add my two cents. It sounds like getting a 250GBP quote for the planning stages of the extension project could be a bit pricey. If you’re looking for ways to save, stackers (forklifts & other materials handling equipment) can help get the project to the planning stages for cheaper.