First thing you need to understand is the scope of the project and what your abilities and experience will cover. Do you have any experience managing a construction project? Have you ever scheduled a construction project? Have you drawn up a trades (i.e. framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, etc., etc..) contract? Have you ever dealt with the permitting office in pulling permits? Have you ever inspected any construction for quality and compliance to the design documents? Have you ever dealt with inspections or construction deficiencies and had to resolve them with the sub-contractors? If you can't answer yes to all these questions, then you're venturing into a field you know little or nothing about. Any mistakes or stumbles you make in your learning curve are most likely going to be costly in both time and your budget. There are some projects that are DIY level.......there are some that would best be left to those of us already having the background and experience. Let me give you an example. I have an oak tree beside the house I'm renovating. It sits about 12' from the end of the house and has at least a 30' radius drip line which means it extends out over the roof of the house. Having spent a number of years of my young life on a ranch and farm, I know how to drop trees. I know how to operate a chain saw safely without loosing a limb or making a quick trip to the ER. From years in the construction / design field, I know how to operate a high lift ......... but even I know that the task of removing this tree is beyond my level in spite of my willingness and wish to save the $3500 I've been quoted. There are some things best left to the pros. Besides, If I drop a 14" diameter limb on the roof, I would never hear the end of it from my wife. Based solely on the questions you asked, I would highly recommend that you hire an Architect to help you with the design and your budget. Then I would find a well recommended GC to do the job......I'm betting you'll make the most of your limited budget going this route.

Thanks for your comments, its great to discuss with houzers! You are so right @decoenthusiaste the view is beautiful and one reason why I chose the apartment. the room is longer than it is wide, and I wanted the kitchen/bar to be included in the seating so the attached pic is how I was planning to lay it out. @cdrdesign I can't/change the table, its a gorgeous mahogany piece I had custom made and one I see keeping for some years yet! I dont plan a TV in this room, will put it in another room. This room in for living and entertaining guests. Sorry I dont have layout software, so you will have to make do with my scribbles using powerpoint! Could really do with help on choosing the light fitting in place of the central fan- what would look nice here or should I wait till the furniture gets here to choose the light to match?

Hi Rhonda, i also recently redid my terrace and installed a wet and dry island in my kitchen. As for your floor plan, if you're willing to consider tearing down the maid's room and moving it to the back, it will free up a lot of space for your dry kitchen/dining area. A bit unconventional, but you can also install the island in between the 2 pillars that are in the center. You can then install pot racks or wine glass holders on top of your island. Enjoy the journey and keep calm. :) Charlene More info

Hello, In 3 years time, you need to put back the wall since u have a 9 yrs old Son hitting teenager and expect own space or your girl would prefer her private space as girl and part of build self-respected lady. Beginning putting them together helps build bond and family strength. Best to start building independence early, makes your parenting easier. Build a home rather than a house. A space is meant to build relationship. With your family size, I would not suggest breaking wall. Extend living room, best is extending into balcony by creating same levels as living room. Now got zip blinds which seal aircon space within balcony open to living. Having glass showcase is good for your toys display. See idea from Ikea. For your new home starting, get basic done prosper. Basic means the essentials. For other parts, take your time and enjoy finding more ideas and shopping around till the great feeling comes to u. If not sure, I think Ikea has many combinations so if u do not like after few years, easy to do make-over. Expensive furniture is too painful to change. Ha! More space for bedroom? use the folding type beds and double as study table. I use platform bed like Japanese room. For Long dining tables, there are extendable type when guests comes. Ikea comes cheapest. There are premium in other Malls. Get extra chair that is stackable not foldable, hurt kids fingers and takes space. Have fun!