I have black granite work tops and a huge amount of them and an island - my reason for choosing is that I believe granite is a lot stronger in the dark colours where as marble is stronger in the light colours - I am (hope husband doesn't see this!) a little bit bored of the black work tops - they are classic but a bit dead - next time, if there is ever a next time, I would not play so safe and would go for light work tops with a bit more interest. I would steer clear of work tops unless you are prepared to really look after them and treat them regularly! As for walls - I would go light - and ensure it is a paint that you can wash splattering off! Not a basic emulsion! That way, by going light you can change colour of kitchen accessories at any time to freshen it up and update it. If I was planning a new kitchen now, I would probably go for light tops with up stands and then have a feature surface in a different material - perhaps a rounded wooden block at the end of a unit as a feature. I love my kitchen but I have played it a bit safe, on reflection!!

Thank you all for your votes and comments. @Pallas, it depends on the space one have, and how many books/ items you want to display at once. Some people prefer to have just one shelf mounted on wall so it doesn't take up much space and some prefer a bookcase which allows for more items to be displayed at once and it's easy to move around if needed. We just wanted to find out which option people find more attractive.

Looking at the birds eye view photo (how lovely to have that balcony!!) I would put the TV in one of the alcoves to the left or right of the fireplace, sofa facing the fireplace and TV, and coffee table between sofa and fireplace. Induction heater can then nestle in front of the sofa at the end where you sit. Little side table likewise can go to the side of the sofa at the end where you sit. You have two floor lamps, do you need both? I would keep one and put it near the record cabinet. Perhaps the dartboard could go on the wall above the fireplace? However I guess this layout may block a walkway or door or have some other fatal flaw...

He he, thanks all! The heating hasn't really been on while the guitar was just propped there so don't worry @E D 😉 Quite warm in this room so we tend to put the log burner on at night instead. Funnily enough, the OH said this morning about mounting his guitar on the wall so might do that. Cheaper than buying a trolley for it 😂 Yes the plan is actually fake so has a little pot and will get a bigger one for it 😁 X