Block Wall Profile in Western Red Cedar looks really good as a feature: http://www.tilling.com.au/architectural/blockwall

Are you asking just about making your unit look more inviting, or all of them? I took it to mean just the one unit pictured . . . So, for the garden bed, something big with plenty of leaves and, ideally, spectacular flowers. I'd recommend maybe a strelitzia (bird of paradise) or canna lily. Currently you have have low maintenance mother-in-law's tongue and a yukka - just too small and spindly for the space. A bird of paradise thrives on neglect . . . for way more impact/distraction value . . . In front of the other window, a whacking great pot with a 'pleached' tree in it. These trees have a trellis with them and grow sideways. Pleaching is mostly done with fruit trees, so you get the added bonus of fruit! . Or consider a couple of 'Teddy Bear' magnolias in two pots - this Houzz story shows both pleaching and magnolias in narrow spots https://www.houzz.com.au/magazine/block-out-thy-neighbour-privacy-plants-for-the-modern-home-stsetivw-vs~41847280 Now, when you've coming from the garage to the front door (with shopping), you are going to have step around in front of this (or have it placed forward so you can step behind). It will be a bit more awkward, but will mask most of that side of the front door. Or are you able to turn that dead lawn bed into a garden bed and plant directly into it? If so, I'd still go with either of these options. Now, smaller plants are much cheaper to buy, but I'd buy the biggest plants you can afford, for the most effect right away . . .

Can't see the room layout, but if you keep it, it could be a nook for a sofa or chairs by the fire on a cold night, with a rug in front. Definitely have a mirror on the mantle. Think about walls and rooflines before you do anything. Or if you've got lots of cash to splash, take it out as it may serve no purpose with a heatpump in place. Replace roof tiles, internal brickwork.........you see what I mean, just saying......

Another option would be to put a TV on there , judging by the plant you don't light it often , if at all , and that may distract the eyes . I sort of like that the tiles aren't absolutely perfect , but there looks to be a couple of gaps along 'in front' -- I'd try grout , or plaster and then paint when dried , almost go for the craft look . And maybe its just the light , or camera flash , but the left wall looks to have a blue tinge , the skirting board looks lighter on that side too , and the hearth step thing a different colour again -- I'd go black/charcoal on that step thing , and make sure all the walls are the same , if they aren't .