I don't mean to be a stickler but It is actually the base molding, sometimes called baseboard. The shoe molding is the little curved piece at the bottom of the baseboard that is removed if you have carpet. It is typically painted or stained wood. Sometimes folks use half round instead of a proper but that isn't as nice of a proportion. Here is everything you wanted to know and then some: http://bonesteelmillandmolding.com/pb/wp_31fb7418/wp_31fb7418.html

I think "render" is stucco in the US. Will the floors be visible? Here is one lots of glass: Here are some photos to refer to: and I think stucco and wood with the glass would really look good. One of the reasons I like the stucco option is because it seems the neighbors have it. So you house will not be a huge departure. Of all of the above photos I like the Elsie Street one, were there is wood between the floors. This wood is probably stained and should not present a major up-keep issue, since a good stain on a cedar should last 10 to 15 years, before it need to be redone.

White microfiber curtains, either solo or as an interior liner, are wonderful. They can be tossed into the laundry with bleach rather than having to be scrubbed down by hand. Cotton waffle weave curtains are also great for the outside, giving a spa like feel. I hate plastic shower curtains.

Life is full of compromises. No one material will fill all your requirements. Pick the ones most important to you. Personally I had several glass tops, rounded corners, flat, high polished edges. I loved them because the kids could paint and glue projects, but I could wash the surface with dish soap and water.