Working with the existing you will not want to infill the whole courtyard otherwise you'll have vast areas with no natural light and the footprint is in any event plenty large enough for a good sized house. I'd look at glazed corridors down each side connecting front to rear, whilst also giving access to rooms down each side. The likelihood however is that the construction of the stable is very basic and the cost to convert this would be more than building a simple timber framed house, even if following the original form. Assuming Planning allows for this then I'd look into this.

Hi franparmenter, there are lots of things you can do! For example, changing the depths and heights of cabinetry can make the kitchen storage bigger or reduce the depth and height to give more free space in a small kitchen. With so many options in sizes now available you’re no longer constrained by one single size. Pocket doors, which slide back into the unit, either as a bi-fold option or a whole option, allow easy access to units but without imposing on floor space. Use mirrors and reflective surfaces to maximise light. Go for integrated appliances to streamline the look. We've attached photo of a very small kitchen we designed and fitted which certainly has the 'wow' factor! Let us know if we can help you further. Best wishes for your move. http://www.kitchensinternational.co.uk/

Hi, I would definitely consider repainting the doors (especially if it works out cheaper) and would consider a dark grey with blue undertone to co-ordinate with your tiles whilst cutting between the wood / wood sort colours and shades. I would also change the door handles if you then would like to go for a wood worktop, I don't think It would look over the top. Alternativly, if you feel that you dont want a high maintenance worktop, I would look at the wood effect laminate worktops, they do vary in quality depending on where you buy but many nowadays are made to be tough and durable and require no additional maintenance except the usual cleans to maintain hygiene. Good Luck A x

Jonathan's suggested layout looks far more sensible to me - I looked with some horror at that huge wasted space between the kitchen and utility. Rob has suggested you consider air conditioning - it might be worth finding a consultant on natural ventilation. (Not sure how you find one, but the RIBA might assist, or I can ask my dad, who is a retired architect.) The one thing I can tell you, having twice had major building work done (and I swore never again after the first one...) is that the more thought you put in up front, the less likely you are to regret design choices and find yourself with costly extra works. Best of luck!