Thanks for all the nice comments everyone!
havingfun, I agree that the fireplace would probably be really great for you in Canberra. I can image how cold it would get out there on clear winter nights.
donuts, it's like you read my mind....i was saying the exact same thing to my DW just before putting the post up. I have a sample of the Cashmere caesarstone with me so I am figuring I might go get a couple of paint samples today. We are also planning on putting up plantation shutters in the windows on either side so we might stop by Spotlight and check out what colour plantation shutters might go with the stone and feature wall too.
Again thanks all....keep your fingers crossed for us that we will be in by Xmas.