Today we went over more details pertaining to finishes and materials. We're off to a tile supplier in on Monday. We decided to engage the landscaper of our choice.
We also went to a house designed and built 2 years ago in the neighbourhood. Using similar front exterior finishes. But we went to see a stone wall that was installed there. Very nice (if a bit over whelming); luckily ours will just be cladding the chimney and fireplace. The owner also had some interesting comments in hindsight, about builders and architects in general. His feedback was quite good for the architect, however he said he wouldn't be recommending the builder.
All very interesting indeed, and food for thought.