It totally depends on how busy the craftsman is. We had something similar built, slightly smaller, and IIRC it took about four months. That's actually a pretty long time, but way worth the wait because he did a beautiful job and built exactly what I wanted. The thing is, he's busy because he's good. So I didn't expect him to start on my job the day I signed the order. My mantra when having work done in my house is and always has been, I'm not in a hurry, I just want it done right. So I'm always willing to wait for quality work.

So I met with the architect today. I am starting to have second thoughts about moving the bathroom. He suggested leaving it as is. He thought I could take out the shower and drywall in the door to the dining area so it is sound proof. Then, I could put a large pocket door (5.5 ft.) to open the room up. Unfortunately it won't open the view out the office slider as much as I would have wanted but I think it might be the best (and cheapest) soon. Plan: This is the view I want to open up from the office: View out the office (the small grey things are doves and quail I fed-to the left (not visible) is an amazing view of the mtn):

I totally agree with cpartist. You are really limiting yourself by staying in the footprint you made for yourself. Considering the investment you will make in the addition, I would want to do everything I could to make this room and possibly the laundry room/office work. I would also think about landscaping. Maybe your bedroom doesnt look to the patio because you move it to the back of the house, but you have succulents and cacti planted in front of the bedroom windows for a beautiful view. I'd start over with a fresh piece of paper and think about every option. I say this because I am doing a master suite addition to my house. I put a lot of thought into what I wanted. The people on this board also really helped me and I hired an architect. We came up with a great plan and will be starting this week on the project.

This room and your thoughts remind me of the article on renovation. There is NOTHING wrong with this room. You have been duped into the "updated" HGTV infomercial world. SWAP out the door fronts WHY!?!?!? What about this space says "dated" to you and even if so none of it says worn, dilapidated, falling apart? Move your furniture in. Make it yours by what you add to it. It's difficult to tell in pictures but it appears you have beautiful hardwood in the room you don't care for and a lower grade product where it is painted.