Very nicely done - utilised similar space in a 1914 Edwardian split into three suites, retaining the character with inset panels on the doors. left an exposed cubby in a space similar to that where the red basket is in your photo here, or the under-stair bar example earlier, lit from above for an unexpected display of glass art. Good to see creative practicality!

Thanks everyone for your kind contribution and feedback. Thanks especially to allanaspree for taking the time to photoshop your ideas into the photos - the centre table looks much better with your simple suggestions J (see post) I’m taking it all on board and will post the after photos.

I'd go a paler wood personally. But given the choice of surfmist or dune....surfmist all the way!

Thank you all for your comments, photos and links. Thank you all for your comments, photos and links. This style of house is what I like but I only have a small budget -$5000.00. I have researched roof painting and read several forums where people have painted their own roofs with good results as long as they were meticulous with the preparation. I will remove the shutters and definitely engage the services of a garden designer. I live in Perth and we haven't seen rain for awhile. Seems sensible to get rid of the lawn. And I will further research painting or re surfacing the driveway and change in the future. But, where do I start? What should I do first to implement change? Thank you for any further comments.