Beautiful bike.

On the brakes: you could try adjusting the brakes so that the pads are very close to the rims, then they will make contact with the rims as soon as you start squeezing the levers. You could also try different brake pads, or new brake pads if yours are old. If you are still unable to brake hard enough from the hoods, then try a dual pivot caliper, but you only need it on the front.