It seams like a lot of these threads are so old! People keep randomly finding a post that is a year or two old, and comment before looking at when it was posted. I wish houzz had a way of deleting old threads that where inactive!...

Hi Deco Everything that I have collected part from the dining set which was an investment has been from garage sales. So I am quite happy to part with everything... I think the most expensive was $10.00. My problem is that I cant focus because you are right. I just have too much going on in different styles. Going with the style of the dining table - where do you think I should head with rug choices from everything I am reading - it says I should zone out the room?? I am staying away from leather couches and heading towards a cotton fabric. I really just want the space to be comfortable. Thanks for the tip about the ideabook. I've been collecting here and then, but mainly watching how people solve their dilemmas. I look but don't comment much.

Hi there, I personally don't like the look of that rock wall with your home. It does nothing for it. I would get rid of it, you may even be able to sell the rock for a bit of cash. I would besser block a retaining wall in its place with posts and render this, then use your timber horizontally slated between the posts. Select a paint colour that works nice with your timber colour and carry the colour through to your house. This will also work in with your side timber fence. Also remove all the plants in the front, just because they are lovely doesn't mean they are in the right place or serve a purpose, you may be able to transplant them somewhere else in the yard. Plants: mop tops are a great feature tree and give lots of shade in summer. A hedge along the inside of the fence would look great, Lilly pilly's are good and Japanese box is tough as boots and requires little water once up a bit. Westringia, birds of paradise, hibiscus, viburnum, Murraya all take heat, depends on what look your after. My average temps in summer are 47 degrees and winter -3 & these plants survive. Yes I also agree with a path from the front to the door. Front door to house could have some timber posts added with an awning/patio to make it stand out. The timber would carry through from the front fence. Painting the brick can also give it a lift if you don't want to go modern with render. You could also paint the concrete driveway, there are some snazzy options available for this, plain or stencil. Best of luck! I'm sure it will come up a treat.

Hi Mary, Check out interior designer Brett Mickan’s projects, Ferdinand st being a big heritage project. He’s really good with bold warm colours and nails the heritage respect without feeling like the place is just a vintage redo. Have you considered getting an interior designer to help? I think in a special project like yours they are worth their weight in gold!! Good luck, I love the property.