You've opened my eyes to ikea hacking, I never knew such a thing existed and there are some quite amazing transformations! It will be great as a little reading area. How were you thinking of hacking the bookcase? I've found 2 images from etsy and ikea hackers (ignore the kids bits!). I would be tempted to run the bench all the way along that back wall and either add shelves up the wall or the cubes where there is the wall space on the right (so move the bookcase up). upholster a cushion pad and add some patterned cushions in the colours you've used thoughout the house but maybe not too bright if you want it as a meditation space. You will probably also need a reading light somewhere, if you do have a stack of 2 cubes on the right then would add one there or you may be able to add an arc lamp. I can't see the whole space but armchair may crowd it or not be needed?

Answers below:- in capitals Remove bedroom 1 wall (likely structural) and insert RSJ (£1000) - MAY WELL NOT BE STRUCTURAL ON THE FIRST FLOOR - BUDGET TOO LOW, INCREASE BY AT LEAST £500 Remove and cover floor opening of old stair case (£400) - BUDGET TOO HIGH, SHOULDN'T COST MUCH AT ALL Buy and fit new stair case inc Bannister and rails (£600) - BUDGET TOO LOW POSSIBLY - ROUGHER COST WOULD BE £1000 Move plumbing for upstairs bathroom (bathroom suite is in good condition) and re-fit bathroom (£2000) - OK Insert new plasterboard walls with electrical components such as light switches and plastering walls (3600) - SOUNDS A LOT, WE DID A WHOLE HOUSE FOR THAT Tiling both new bathroom and ensuite (£1750) - OK! All in all i think this would make a house with three fairly decent sized double bedrooms and one small double. one family bath and one en-suite. AGREE Also does anyone have any idea if this would add value and if so how much? - CANNOT POSSIBLY TELL - YOU'D NEED TO TAKE THE ADVICE OF A LOCAL ESTATE AGENT AS ALL INCREASES ARE PROPERTY AND AREA DEPENDANT.

I'd go for option B. I think you need some hint of another colour, but I can understand your dislike of coloured walls and wallpaper (you're not alone in the wallpaper loathing!) Other than a greig colour, have you though of something a bit like F&B Dimity? which will give you the contrast between your white woodwork and the walls, whilst still keeping it pale and neutral, but adding a bit of warmth to counter of the lack of natural light. I think it will also compliment your new travertine

Unfortunately that staircase does not conform to Building Regulations because it has no handrail and is over a 600mm rise, unguarded and the gap between the treads is too big. Gloss is now not so popular for paint. Satin or matt is the way forward.