@James DeRoest,sorry i could not be of help, but maybe if your time permits, you could go by a lighting showroom (no big box stores) and run those questions by them (usually they know about this or have electricians installing this all day). i recommend one specialized in modern/contemporary lighting.in the worst case you got some free coffee, nice ladies to look at and maybe some clearance items or some networking with lighting designers...

I have experience doing Civil and Structural design and evaluation on Residential, Multi family and Commercial projects.I am experienced in the Portland Metro area.   

The flue was constructed inside of the cinder block with special tile designed to withstand the heat.

@Tom SpaethYou can get on Yelp or do a Google search of interior designers in your area.

It looks like you have a few design challenges. 

The tile designs do look very nice but I think laying tile throughout the entire house would be a detriment down the line when/if I go to replace the flooring.

There are non-profits and shelters designed to do that.

The others arrive in 2 brand new SUV's, wearing designer clothes.

Thanks, @Shaun Reilly , you beat me to it.A couple of cautions: this form is copyrighted, and since you aren't a realtor, you should create a form that doesn't have the realtor logo.

Good development contracts design out municipality risk and have extended closings so you may be waiting a while for a commission or a sale of a contract.